Critics Question Kamala Harris’ Viability for 2028 Presidential Race

Reports from CNN and The Washington Post suggest Vice President Kamala Harris is contemplating another White House bid despite her significant loss to President-elect Donald Trump. Josh Morgan / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images

Harris has allegedly also considered a potential run for California governor. CNN reported that Harris “remains undecided herself,” as she grapples with how to channel her current feelings—ones she has, for now, distilled into familiar remarks like “you haven’t seen the last of me” and “I’m not going quietly into the night,” repeated to supporters pressing her about her next steps, according to several sources who spoke to the network. Audrey Richardson / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images

However, MSNBC columnist Zeeshan Aleem argued that Harris is “particularly ill-suited” for a presidential run in what he calls a “populist era,” stating the Democratic Party would be making a mistake by backing her. Brett Jordan / Pexels

Aleem contended that Harris’ blend of “vibes and technocracy” fails to resonate with voters at a time when economic populism is critical. JASON BEAN/RGJ / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images

Aleem criticized Harris’ performance in the 2024 election, noting her inability to articulate a clear economic vision amidst a cost-of-living crisis. He wrote, “Despite her manifest intelligence and poise,” Harris lacked a clear strategy, which was compounded by her late policy platform rollout. Richard Burkhart/Savannah Morning News / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images

Harris is also burdened by "toxic association with post-pandemic inflation" and rising illegal immigration, issues that have dominated political debate and harmed her credibility. Rob Schumacher/The Republic / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images

Aleem emphasized that while Harris is “sharp and telegenic,” the party needs a candidate who can “authentically brandish economic populism and win back working-class voters.” Megan Smith/USA TODAY Network / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images

He advised Democrats to shift focus and recognize other ways Harris could contribute to public service without returning to the presidential arena. Richard Burkhart/Savannah Morning News / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images