Former Vice President Kamala Harris's new memoir, "107 Days," has stirred controversy within the Democratic Party by detailing candid critiques of her 2024 presidential campaign and its key figures. The book explores internal party conflicts and Harris's personal perspectives, igniting discussions about leadership and future political strategies.
Within "107 Days," Harris expresses significant dissatisfaction with the Biden administration, describing President Joe Biden's decision to seek re-election at age 81 as "reckless." The memoir recounts instances where she felt Biden's actions, such as a pre-debate phone call, may have undermined her campaign. These revelations have amplified existing concerns within the party regarding Biden's age and fitness for office, a topic that was prominent for months before his withdrawal from the race.
The memoir also sheds light on the complexities of Harris's own presidential bid, including her assessment of her relationship with her running mate, Minnesota Governor Tim Walz. Harris admits Walz was not her initial preference for the vice-presidential nomination, a revelation that has heightened internal party tensions. Despite Walz being chosen to help unify the party and appeal to swing state voters, his relationship with Harris prior to the campaign was minimal, with them having met only a few times before the expedited vetting process.
Further insights from "107 Days" include Harris's interactions with other prominent Democrats. She recounts reaching out to California Governor Gavin Newsom after Biden's withdrawal, only to find him unavailable. Additionally, she reflects on former Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg, whom she considered a "risky running mate" due to his identity as an openly gay man, a perspective that has drawn varied reactions.
The release of the memoir has elicited diverse responses from within the Democratic Party. Some strategists have deemed the book "embarrassing" and "divisive," suggesting it could impede Harris's future as a unifying figure. Conversely, others argue that the book's candid nature, while potentially alienating some, may serve as a strategic move to position her for future political endeavors, such as a potential 2028 presidential run.