Republican pollster Whit Ayers said in a new interview that it’s a mistake for former President Trump to join some Republican lawmakers in calling Vice President Harris the diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) candidate.
Ayers Said The Washington Post noted Trump’s response to a question about whether Harris’ nomination, which began after Biden dropped out of the race last Sunday, exacerbates or highlights the former president’s weaknesses.
“If he follows the example of irresponsible council members and starts criticizing her race and gender and talking about DEI candidates, it will backfire,” Ayers said.
Ayers said he thinks Trump should focus on Harris’ policy positions.
“On the other hand, if he focuses on policy differences and calls her a San Francisco liberal who wants to ban fracking, ban offshore drilling and abolish private health insurance, then Kamala’s candidacy will be to his advantage,” he said.
Several Republicans have claimed Harris was recruited by DEI since she emerged as the party’s next nominee. Harris, who is of Jamaican and Indian descent, would be the first woman and first woman of color to serve as president of the country.
Rep. Tim Burchett (R-Tenn.) called Harris a “DEI hire.” He later acknowledged he regretted calling her that, but doubled down. Rep. Harriet Hageman (R-Wyo.) called Harris a “horrible hire,” also calling her a DEI hire. Rep. Glenn Grothman (R-Wis.) said Democrats felt they had to stick with Harris after Biden dropped out because of her “ethnic background.”
Some Republicans have warned their GOP colleagues to back away from discussions about DEI.
Ayers told the Post that Harris faces immense pressure from the Biden administration and “it all depends on how she handles the pressures of a very tough presidential campaign.”
Trump addressed supporters in North Carolina on Wednesday, his first rally since Biden announced his withdrawal, and harshly criticized Harris, blasting her on immigration and inflation, calling her a “far-left lunatic” and mispronouncing her name multiple times.
