Nancy Pelosi may have just revealed what she really thinks of Kamala Harris in 'eyebrow-raising' interview
WASHINGTON, DC: In a recent interview former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi made cryptic remarks about President Joe Biden's potential withdrawal from the 2024 presidential race.
The 83-year-old Pelosi, known for her political acumen and guarded statements, shared her perspective on Biden's future in politics and Vice President Kamala Harris' readiness to "take over."
Throughout the interview, Pelosi artfully navigated inquiries concerning Vice President Harris' prospects for seeking re-election, creating a sense of curiosity regarding the intricate dynamics within the Democratic Party.
Uncertainty over Biden's future
The interview began with Pelosi responding to the question of whether there was any possibility that President Biden might not continue his run for the presidency in 2024. Rather than offering a clear answer, Pelosi delivered an ambiguous response: "I hope not, I hope not."
This non-committal stance only intensified the ongoing discussions about President Biden's age and cognitive abilities, issues that have drawn scrutiny not just from political opponents but from members of his own party as well.
President Biden, who at 80 is the oldest person ever to hold the office, has been the subject of increased scrutiny regarding his mental fitness. Pelosi's reluctance to provide a resounding endorsement only added to the speculation about the president's future in politics.
The intrigue continued when Pelosi was asked whether Kamala Harris was the best choice as Vice President for President Biden.
In response, Pelosi said, "He thinks so, and that's what matters. She's very politically astute. I don't think people give her enough credit. Her values are consistent with the president's values. Why would she be vice president if she were not?"
However, this response lacked a direct endorsement, prompting further curiosity about the relationship between President Biden and Vice President Harris. Even when pressed by the interviewer, Anderson Cooper, Pelosi continued to sidestep the question, with a smirk and a hint of amusement.
She explained, "She's the vice president of the United States. People say to me, well, why isn't she doing this or that? I say because she's the vice president. That's the job description. You don't do that much."
This peculiar description of the Vice President's role raised eyebrows on social media, with many questioning the significance of the position.
NEW: Nancy Pelosi admits that Kamala Harris does nothing and says the reason for this is because that’s the role of the Vice President, to literally do nothing.
— Collin Rugg (@CollinRugg) September 14, 2023
Remarkable.
“She's the vice president of the United States. So when people say to me: ‘well, why isn't she doing this… pic.twitter.com/BrKQcBT8yz
Reactions to Nancy Pelosi's statement
The internet buzzed with reactions to Pelosi's elusive answers. Some interpreted her responses as a reluctance to endorse or even compliment Kamala Harris, leading to speculation about potential tensions within the Democratic Party.
"Nancy was tripping all over herself in this interview not to endorse or even compliment Kamala. Wonder what that means…" one tweeted.
Others criticized the perception that the Vice President's role might be largely ceremonial, given her extensive background and responsibilities.
"The second highest position in government does…..NOTHING????" another comment read.
"It’s all adding up, I bet she also thinks her job is to do nothing," someone else wrote.
"And she’s collecting our tax dollars to do nothing. Let that sink in," another user said.
Nancy was tripping all over herself in this interview not to endorse or even compliment Kamala. Wonder what that means…🧐
— Western Lensman (@WesternLensman) September 14, 2023
The second highest position in government does…..NOTHING????
— Emmy (@Emmmyalluu) September 14, 2023
It’s all adding up, I bet she also thinks her job is to do nothing.
— Jacob (@JacobH1029) September 14, 2023
And she’s collecting our tax dollars to do nothing. Let that sink in.
— DEL (@delinthecity_) September 14, 2023
David Ignatius' contradictory critique
Further complicating matters, Pelosi laughed off a recent column by David Ignatius in The Washington Post, which suggested that both President Biden and Vice President Harris should avoid running in 2024.
Ignatius praised Biden's governance but cited concerns about his approval ratings and age. Pelosi dismissed Ignatius' criticism as the opinion of one individual and referenced his previous comments regarding her trip to Taiwan.
When asked directly if President Biden was the best candidate for the Democratic nomination in 2024, Pelosi offered a more straightforward response, stating, "I think so. Yes. President Biden has great experience and wisdom."
She emphasized his long history in politics, from his time as a senator to his vice presidency and current presidency, highlighting his vision for the country centered around fairness and justice for working families.
However, she did acknowledge that there might be some concerns about his age within the Democratic Party.
For Vice President Harris, who has faced challenges with her approval ratings, the interview shed light on the uphill battle she may face if she decides to run for re-election as Vice President.
Ignatius noted that she has "failed to gain traction in the country or even within her own party."
Harris recently affirmed her readiness to assume the presidency if President Biden were unable to continue his duties, but she defended his capabilities during an interview at the ASEAN Summit in Indonesia.
A recent AP/NORC poll revealed that 77% of Americans, including 69% of Democrats, believe he is too old for a second term.
A Wall Street Journal poll echoed these findings, further highlighting the challenges that President Biden and, potentially, Vice President Harris may face in the lead-up to the 2024 election.