Understanding the Role of Kamala Harris in the 2020 US Election

When it comes to the 2020 US election, Kamala Harris was chosen as the Democratic Party's vice-presidential candidate to support Joe Biden for the presidency. This decision was made through the party's nomination process, following a series of primary elections. Understanding the intricacies of this decision and the context of the election is crucial for anyone interested in U.S. politics. This article will delve into the arguments both for and against voting for Kamala Harris in the context of the 2020 election.

A Common Misconception: Did You Vote for Kamala Harris?

The first common misconception is that voters were not given a choice for Kamala Harris, the former California senator, in the primary elections. In fact, during the primary elections, voters were not directly voting for Kamala Harris or any other candidate. The primary election is a process where voters elect delegates who will attend the party’s national convention and vote for their candidate. Kamala Harris was chosen as the Democratic nominee through this process.

Many suggest that no one voted for Kamala Harris in the primary elections as she dropped out before the first primary. However, while she did drop out before the primaries began, the Democratic Party bid process does not require a prior vote. Instead, a party member is chosen based on the delegates' support. It’s important to understand that this is a common and legally accepted practice in the political landscape.

Political Primary Elections: Who Votes for the Vice Presidential Candidate?

The misconception that one did not vote for Kamala Harris, or that her selection was a sign of a 'cheat' by Democrats, is based on a misunderstanding of the primary election system. During the primary, voters are actually voting for delegates, not for the candidates directly. The delegates then vote for their preferred candidate, which in this case was Kamala Harris.

Some argue that since Kamala Harris was chosen by the party, she was the least desirable candidate. However, this is a narrow perspective. Voting for a vice-presidential candidate often involves more than just hoping for their ascension to the presidency. It's also about someone who can stand up to the president, especially in times of conflict or disagreement. Kamala Harris, with her experience and political acumen, was seen as a capable individual to assist and potentially challenge Biden when necessary.

Criticism Towards Kamala Harris’ Role at the Border

A significant criticism directed at Kamala Harris is her performance as the 'Border Czar' during Joe Biden’s presidency. Critics argue that she failed to address the border crisis adequately. They highlight her failure to visit the border for months, which was seen as a lack of commitment to addressing the issue. The perception of Harris' inability to manage the border effectively contributed to her low public ratings and the perception of her as a 'failure.'

However, it’s worth noting that border management is a complex and multi-faceted issue that goes beyond the role of a single individual. While Harris might not have visited the border as frequently as some would have liked, her role encompasses a broader set of responsibilities, including legislation and diplomatic efforts. The criticism also suggests a broader dissatisfaction with the Biden administration's approach to the issue.

Conclusion: A Dive into the Democratic Party’s Nomination Process

In conclusion, the selection of Kamala Harris as the Democratic nominee for vice president was a deliberate and legally sound process within the party's structure. While some may criticize her performance, others see her as a strategic choice that could fill the role of a potential check on the president during critical moments. Understanding these complexities is essential for voters and any interested party.

It's important for every voter to have a clear understanding of the political processes, including the nomination and primary process, to make informed decisions. The role of Kamala Harris in the 2020 election was a result of a deliberate choice made by the Democratic Party and through the democratic process. The party’s decisions and the roles of its nominees are a critical aspect of U.S. politics.

Ultimately, the election was about much more than just a single candidate. It was an opportunity to shape the platform and direction of the Democratic Party, and the choice of Kamala Harris as vice-presidential nominee was a strategic one.