Biden Distances Himself, Says Harris Will “Cut Her Own Path” \ Newslooks \ Washington DC \ Mary Sidiqi \ Evening Edition \ President Biden has emphasized that Kamala Harris will bring her own fresh perspective if elected, distancing her from his administration’s legacy. With three weeks left until Election Day, Biden’s comments may give Harris the freedom to appeal to undecided voters and address concerns on how she would govern differently.
Harris to Carve Her Own Path: Quick Looks
- Biden’s Endorsement of Independence: President Biden stated that Kamala Harris will lead with her own vision, suggesting she would bring a fresh approach compared to his administration.
- A Tactic for Skeptical Voters: The statement aims to address concerns that Harris might be too aligned with Biden’s policies, especially as his favorability ratings remain low.
- Harris Under Pressure: Facing demands to clarify how her leadership would differ, Harris has kept her distance from making sharp distinctions, citing generational change as her key advantage.
- Biden’s Rare Campaign Appearance: In a spirited event in Philadelphia, Biden reiterated his confidence in Harris while taking jabs at Trump’s election denial and misinformation.
Deep Look
Biden Signals Harris’ Independence in Closing Campaign Weeks
President Joe Biden made a rare and pivotal statement on Tuesday, emphasizing that Kamala Harris, if elected, would “cut her own path” as president. Speaking at a rally in Philadelphia, Biden’s comments seemed aimed at providing Harris with the latitude to draw her own policy distinctions in the closing three weeks of the campaign. This move comes as Harris seeks to solidify her support base and reach out to skeptical voters in a neck-and-neck race against Donald Trump.
“Kamala will take the country in her own direction, and that’s one of the most important differences in this election,” Biden said. “Kamala’s perspective on our problems will be fresh and new. Donald Trump’s perspective is old, failed, and, quite frankly, totally dishonest.”
Distance From Biden’s Legacy
Biden’s remarks mark a clear effort to separate Harris’ potential presidency from his own. With his favorability ratings underwater and criticisms around certain aspects of his administration, the strategy appears to be aimed at helping Harris appeal to voters who may be wary of a continuation of the same policies. Despite overseeing popular legislative achievements on infrastructure and drug pricing, Biden’s handling of global crises and certain domestic issues has faced scrutiny. Allowing Harris to define her leadership in a new light could help sway undecided voters.
While some of Harris’ aides have privately expressed frustration at Biden focusing too much on his legacy instead of her campaign, Biden’s latest comments may provide the vice president with a freer hand to outline how she would govern differently. This comes at a critical time as polls show a tight race, with many voters still on the fence.
Harris Walks a Fine Line
Harris, however, has been cautious not to create too much daylight between herself and Biden, particularly given her rise from a first-term senator to vice president, a role she gained through Biden’s endorsement. Although she has consistently brushed off comparisons by stating, “I’m not Joe Biden,” Harris has yet to specify substantial policy deviations. Last week, in a conversation with radio host Howard Stern, she could not name any decision of Biden’s she would have handled differently—a remark that Trump and his supporters quickly amplified at rallies and on social media.
Still, Harris has tried to frame herself as the candidate who will bring positive change, leveraging her generational contrast with Biden and Trump. She has also hinted at potential shifts by stating she would consider appointing Republicans to her Cabinet, a departure from the Biden administration’s approach.
Biden Speaks in Philadelphia, Rallies Support
Biden’s speech in Philadelphia was a rare political event for him since stepping out of the 2024 race—a decision driven by party unity after a challenging debate and internal Democratic struggles. Addressing the crowd gathered at the Sheet Metal Workers International Association, Biden reiterated his confidence in Harris.
“Every president has to cut their own path; that’s what I did,” Biden said to cheers of “Thank you, Joe!” from supporters. “I was loyal to Barack Obama, and I cut my own path as president. That’s what Kamala is going to do.”
Poignant Remarks as Election Nears
The president’s endorsement of Harris’ independence comes just weeks before the election, offering a poignant moment as he reflected on his decision to pass the torch. “When I decided it was time to pass the torch to the next generation, I knew. I knew who I wanted to replace me,” Biden said, emphasizing his trust in Harris’ leadership.
Biden also took the opportunity to criticize Trump, labeling him a “loser” and attacking his refusal to accept the results of the 2020 election. “Every generation faces a moment where democracy has to be defended,” Biden said. “This is our moment.”
Harris Balances Her Approach Amid Policy Pressures
Harris has been under increasing pressure to articulate how she would govern differently from Biden. Although her focus has been on addressing racial inequities, healthcare, and criminal justice reform, she has not offered sharp policy departures that might suggest disloyalty to Biden. Analysts suggest that signaling any divergence, particularly on foreign policy, could be seen as risky given the current global climate.
In addition to addressing domestic issues, Harris has taken steps to engage with key demographics, such as Black men and Hispanic voters, through targeted events and town halls. While campaigning in Detroit, she highlighted economic opportunities for Black men and entrepreneurship, unveiling new initiatives to provide forgivable business loans and apprenticeships. Her “Opportunity Agenda for Black Men” seeks to address longstanding disparities in healthcare and economic access.
Trump and the Battle for Women’s Votes
Meanwhile, Trump has sought to solidify his support among women, especially in suburban areas where the Republican Party has struggled post-Roe v. Wade. In a Fox News town hall featuring an all-female audience, Trump presented himself as a protector of women’s rights and security, despite his administration’s role in the overturning of the landmark ruling. “You will be protected, and I will be your protector,” Trump said, framing his leadership as essential to safeguarding American women.
Looking Forward
As the election draws near, both campaigns are intensifying their outreach to key voter groups, with Harris trying to expand her appeal among younger voters and marginalized communities, and Trump doubling down on his base while reaching out to women. Biden’s endorsement of Harris’ independent path may give her the flexibility needed to capture those undecided voters and clarify her vision for the country.
Biden Distances Biden Distances
