Kamala Harris Discusses NYC Mayoral Race
Former Vice President Kamala Harris commented on Monday about the New York City mayoral race, particularly regarding the candidacy of Democratic socialist Zohran Mamdani.
“I believe he’s a Democratic candidate, and he deserves support,” Harris stated during an interview on MSNBC with Rachel Maddow.
When pressed on whether she would back Mamdani’s campaign, Harris raised her hand and remarked that she would, in a “certain” manner.
“I absolutely support Democrats in this race,” she affirmed, while also mentioning other Democratic candidates in various cities, quickly shifting to the mayoral run. Mamdani indicated that he is not the only contender making waves.
“I know that in New York, people believe they’re at the center of the universe,” she humorously added.
Harris pointed out other candidates like Barbara Drummond from Mobile, Alabama, and Helena Moreno from New Orleans, highlighting that they are also contenders and deserving attention.
“We should recognize stars from all over America, not just from New York City,” Harris explained.
There is a significant divide within the Democratic Party, fueled by Mamdani’s socialist views and critical stance on Israel, which has led to a lack of support from several prominent New York Democrats, including Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer and House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries.
However, New York Governor Kathy Hochul endorsed Mamdani last week.
This interview with Maddow was Harris’s first since leaving office, although she had recently appeared on “The Late Show With Stephen Colbert.”
On MSNBC, Harris didn’t hold back when discussing former President Trump, branding him a “tyrant” and comparing him to a “communist dictator.”
“In a democracy, capitalism can thrive, but we are dealing with Trump now. I called him a tyrant,” she remarked, emphasizing the threats to democracy posed by his actions.
Harris referred to Trump as an “industrial giant” but criticized him for using government power for personal gains.
Later, she was asked about her upcoming book, “107 Days,” and clarified her feelings regarding Pete Buttigieg as a potential running mate. Despite having once viewed him as a possible option, she didn’t believe he was the right fit.
When Maddow suggested that Buttigieg’s sexuality might affect his viability as a candidate, Harris firmly disagreed, stating, “No, that’s not what I said,” and reiterated her points regarding judgment about his candidacy.
Reflecting on her own experiences as a Black woman in politics, she acknowledged the complexities and risks involved in the election landscape.
As for her future ambitions, when questioned about possibly running for the White House in 2028, Harris was noncommittal, reiterating, “It’s not my focus right now.”
