**Departure of DNC Chair Jaime Harrison Reflects on 2024 Election and Party Strategy**

In anticipation of the upcoming election of a new chair for the Democratic National Committee (DNC), outgoing chair Jaime Harrison has shared his views on the party’s recent electoral challenges and strategies moving forward. In a recent interview, Harrison expressed that the Democrats should have remained united behind President Joe Biden for the 2024 election. He reflected on the factors that led to the party’s losses to former President Donald Trump and considered how former Vice President Kamala Harris might have fared had she been given more time to campaign after Biden’s rocky debate performance.

Harrison also emphasized the need for the next DNC chair, who will be selected on Saturday, to ensure that the party does not simply act as a “rubber stamp” for its presidential candidate. Here are some key insights from his conversation:

When asked about the Democrats’ defeat in the White House race, Harrison noted the complexity of the situation. “There isn’t a single reason,” he stated. While many attribute the loss to economic issues, he pointed out that different states had unique challenges. For instance, the Palestinian issue resonated in Michigan, contributing to the electoral outcome. He explained that while the margin of loss wasn’t substantial, various factors, from issues surrounding Gaza to the economy and gender bias, played a cumulative role in the defeat across several states.

Regarding whether Harris’s limited campaign timeline hindered her chances, Harrison indicated that a longer campaigning period would have likely facilitated a better experience for both her and her team. “We were primarily focused on Joe Biden’s campaign,” he explained, noting that following Biden’s commendable State of the Union address, his disappointing debate performance left many questioning the future of the party’s leadership. Harrison conveyed a sense of loyalty to Biden, suggesting that Democrats could learn a lesson from Republican unity despite Trump’s legal troubles.

Harrison firmly believes that Democrats should stand by their candidates, especially those who have diligently worked for the party’s success. He articulated his belief in loyalty, comparing the party’s approach to that of a supportive quarterback who deserves backing in challenging times. However, he acknowledged that not every member of the party shares this mentality and highlighted the tendency for some to look for alternatives instead of offering support.

As for whether the party was prepared for a shift in candidates, Harrison revealed that he had consulted a select group about possible scenarios while weighing the ramifications of a major primary challenge. He kept others in the loop, contemplating contingency plans without delving into extensive discussions. Furthermore, he commended Harris for quickly rallying support in the wake of Biden’s performance, with multiple figures pledging allegiance to her campaign soon after.

On the matter of DNC operations, Harrison insisted that the committee should not passively endorse every decision made by the presidential campaign. He argued for a restructuring that includes a broader representation, so that different perspectives are accounted for in critical decision-making processes. Reflecting on his own experiences, he recognized the lack of representation he sometimes faced, which he deemed detrimental to party progress.

Regarding the growing need for engaging nonwhite voters, Harrison recognized the shifts within various demographics. He indicated that simply focusing on turnout isn’t sufficient; Democrats must also work on persuading voters by addressing their specific issues and demonstrating genuine advocacy for their concerns. He emphasized the importance of personal conversations tailored to individual communities to foster trust and support.

As he transitions out of his role, Harrison expressed pride in the advancements made under his leadership, including the establishment of a red-state fund aimed at strengthening Democratic infrastructure in traditionally conservative areas. Though he has no immediate political aspirations, Harrison hinted at the idea of revitalizing the Democratic Party in the South and is contemplating his future involvement in this effort.

As the DNC looks ahead, Harrison’s insights may help shape the party’s strategy in the coming years as the new chair takes office and continues the task of unifying and strengthening the Democratic message.