Full Breakdown
Kamala Harris Reflects on Her 2024 Presidential Campaign in New Memoir
9/19/2025, 9:55:21 PM
Overview of the Campaign and Key Events
In her upcoming memoir, *107 Days*, former Vice President Kamala Harris provides an introspective account of her brief presidential campaign following President Joe Biden's withdrawal from the 2024 race. The book details her experiences during the campaign, including her interactions with Biden, her choice of running mate, and the challenges she faced as a candidate. Harris's campaign lasted only 107 days, culminating in a loss to Donald Trump and his running mate, J.D. Vance.
Tensions with President Biden
Harris recounts a pivotal phone call with Biden just hours before a critical debate against Trump, where he expressed concerns about influential Democrats in Philadelphia not supporting her due to her criticisms of him. She describes feeling "angry and disappointed" by the call, which she perceived as a distraction from her preparations for the debate. Harris reflects on the strain in their relationship, noting that while she felt loyalty towards Biden, their dynamic was tested during the campaign. She criticized Biden's performance and decision to run for reelection, labeling it as "recklessness" and suggesting that his age contributed to his declining performance.
The Choice of Running Mate
Harris reveals that her first choice for a running mate was former Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg, whom she praised for his political acumen. However, she ultimately decided against selecting him, citing concerns that a ticket featuring a Black woman and a gay man would be "too big of a risk" for voters. Instead, she chose Minnesota Governor Tim Walz, who was seen as a safer option. Harris's decision reflects the complexities of identity politics within the Democratic Party, as she grappled with the implications of her choices on voter acceptance.
Criticism of Fellow Democrats
Throughout the memoir, Harris does not shy away from critiquing fellow Democrats, including Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro, whom she describes as overly ambitious and indiscreet. She notes that some potential allies were hesitant to support her publicly, highlighting a lack of unity within the party during her campaign. Harris's candid assessments of her peers underscore the challenges she faced in rallying support as she transitioned from being Biden's vice president to the party's presidential nominee.
Official Statements & Responses
In her memoir, Harris emphasizes her loyalty to Biden while also expressing her frustrations with his campaign's management. She acknowledges that she was in a difficult position to advise him against running, fearing it would be perceived as self-serving. Harris's reflections on her campaign and her relationship with Biden provide insight into the internal dynamics of the Democratic Party during a tumultuous election cycle.
What's Next
*107 Days* is set to be released on September 23, 2025, and Harris will embark on a 15-city book tour, including international stops. The memoir is anticipated to spark discussions about the future of the Democratic Party and the potential for Harris's continued political ambitions, particularly as the party prepares for the 2028 presidential election.
