Senators Split on VP Kamala Harris' Pragmatic Policy Shifts

Senator Bernie Sanders believes Vice President Harris' policy flip-flops are a pragmatic attempt to win, while others question her abandonment of progressive ideals.

Sen. Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.) has offered a nuanced perspective on Vice President Kamala Harris' recent policy shifts, characterizing them as a pragmatic approach to securing electoral victory. Harris, who previously endorsed Medicare-For-All and a ban on fracking, has since moderated her stance on these issues, prompting questions about her commitment to progressive ideals.

Sanders, a staunch advocate for progressive policies, acknowledges Harris' shift but does not interpret it as an abandonment of her core beliefs. Instead, he suggests that she is adopting a pragmatic approach, prioritizing her chances of winning the election.

Senators Split on VP Kamala Harris' Pragmatic Policy Shifts

"I think she's trying to be pragmatic and doing what she thinks is right in order to win the election," Sanders said on NBC's "Meet the Press."

Harris herself has emphasized the consistency of her values, despite her policy adjustments. During an interview with CNN, she asserted that her commitment to certain principles has remained unwavering.

Senators Split on VP Kamala Harris' Pragmatic Policy Shifts

"I think the most important and most significant aspect of my policy perspective and decisions is my values have not changed," Harris said.

She specifically cited her support for addressing climate change, border security, and expanding access to healthcare, claiming that her approach to these issues has evolved from her time as California's attorney general.

Senators Split on VP Kamala Harris' Pragmatic Policy Shifts

Sanders acknowledges differences in their policy perspectives but still considers Harris a progressive ally.

"She has another approach toward moving to universal health care," Sanders said, referring to Harris' departure from Medicare-For-All. "But... I think if you campaign on those issues... she's going to win, and I think she can win big."

Senators Split on VP Kamala Harris' Pragmatic Policy Shifts

Sanders highlighted Harris' support for policies such as the permanent expansion of the child tax credit, affordable housing, and union rights, aligning with his own progressive agenda.

Harris' campaign has confirmed her shift in key policy positions, framing it as a pragmatic strategy to foster consensus. Spokesperson Mia Ehrenberg emphasized the administration's bipartisan achievements and Harris' commitment to bringing diverse perspectives together.

"Vice President Harris believes real leadership means bringing all sides together to build consensus," Ehrenberg said.

A Harris campaign adviser attributes her policy evolution to her experience in the Biden-Harris administration, suggesting that her positions have been shaped by governance.

Harris and former President Trump are set to engage in a debate hosted by ABC News on Tuesday, providing an opportunity to further explore their contrasting policy stances.