On Thursday, former Vice President Harris expressed her concerns that the systems designed to keep President Trump in check are failing.
While promoting her new book, “107 Days,” Harris engaged in a discussion with journalist Kara Swisher at the Warner Theater, where she addressed a packed audience.
“The essential point is that most of the guardrails are broken,” Harris remarked, adding, “Except for one thing: the people and the influence of God.”
She questioned, “If the Supreme Court isn’t functioning as a guardrail right now, what legal protections do we truly have?” Her answer was simply “the people.”
During their dialogue, Harris labeled Congressional Republicans as “accomplices,” stating they are aware of the wrongs at play but are more concerned about political repercussions than taking a stand.
She expressed appreciation for Congressional Democrats who are advocating for the subsidies of the Affordable Care Act (ACA), which are facing expiration by year-end. This has led to ongoing tensions with Republicans and a government shutdown that is nearing its tenth day.
“I believe many Republicans recognize this situation is problematic, yet they remain inactive,” she noted.
Harris candidly shared her perspective, stating, “I don’t anticipate things getting better anytime soon. Each day brings new challenges.” She criticized the prosecution led by New York State Attorney General Letitia James and voiced her discontent over Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr.’s claim regarding circumcision and autism.
Referring to her mother, who was involved with the National Institutes of Health, Harris reflected, “She aimed to work alongside scientists dedicated to relieving pain and enhancing lives.” She found the current denial of scientific progress alarming and expressed, “It hits home for me.”
Regarding Kennedy’s comments, she said, “It’s bizarre. It’s troubling.” Harris admitted, “We don’t have a clear plan to address these issues before this term ends, but we acknowledge we need to engage in the fight.”
“We must resist,” she emphasized. “Staying resilient is crucial. We can’t normalize this reality, let it overwhelm us, or remain silent.”
Harris also touched on a recent viral moment from her book tour, sharing a laugh with the audience. While at the Getty Center in Los Angeles, she remarked, “There’s a lot happening now that makes people feel as if they’re losing their minds, when in truth, it’s those others who are out of touch!” Her candid humor elicited laughter and applause from the crowd, leading Harris to chuckle as well.
