As Kamala Harris’ approval ratings continue to drop, new reports say the vice president is being “sidelined” and feels isolated in her position.
A recent CNN report alleges a rift between President Joe Biden and Harris, noting “The exasperation runs both ways”.
CNN interviewed “nearly three dozen former and current Harris aides, administration officials, Democratic operatives, donors and outside advisers”.
“Many in the vice president’s circle fume that she’s not being adequately prepared or positioned, and instead is being sidelined,” the report said.
The vice president herself has told several confidants she feels constrained in what she’s able to do politically. And those around her remain wary of even hinting at future political ambitions, with Biden’s team highly attuned to signs of disloyalty, particularly from the vice president.
Sunday night, Jen Psaki tweeted her defense of Harris, calling her a “bold leader”.
The tension is causing speculation about the future and the 2024 presidential election, as Biden is expected to promote Harris as his replacement.
Some of Harris’ aides are frustrated that she is given politically difficult issues. One aide said “They’re consistently sending her out there on losing issues in the wrong situations for her skill set”.
Harris has been largely criticized for her handling of the border crisis. Biden announced earlier this year that the vice president would take part in talks with Mexico and Central American countries about immigration.
Besides a short trip to Mexico and Guatemala, Harris has barely addressed the issue in public, causing tension in the West Wing.
