'That ship has long sailed': Internet reacts as Kamala Harris says she and Biden will need to 'earn' 2024 win
WASHINGTON, DC: In a recent interview with CNN, Vice President Kamala Harris appeared to fess up to perceived troubles ahead of the presidential election, saying she and President Joe Biden will have to "earn our re-elect" in 2024.
Harris addressed the complexities of delivering the Biden administration's message to black voters, acknowledging the extensive list of achievements for black Americans and the need to prioritize key points. Harris, who gives interviews rather infrequently, discussed the challenges of resonating with voters in the upcoming 2024 election.
"In some ways, actually, probably there’s a hindrance, in that the list is really long, and we have to triage around what we repeat over and over again to make sure that it resonates and it’s actually heard," Harris told CNN on Sunday, November 19.
The vice president insisted that the Biden-Harris campaign is not taking reelection for granted, stating, "We’re going to have to earn our reelect, there’s no doubt about it."
This statement followed a trip earlier this month to officially file for the Democratic primary in South Carolina, during which Harris spoke with CNN aboard Air Force Two.
Social media criticism
That said, social media was inundated with a barrage of reactions to Harris' comments. Some questioned the timing of the administration's efforts, while others doubted the feasibility of "earning" reelection.
"Well, that ship has long since sailed," one posted on X (formerly Twitter).
"It’s been 3 years and now they wanna try and do something," another scoffed.
"Good luck with that, Bidens on another planet," someone else wrote.
"Who wants to tell her?" a comment read.
"If America let that happen again, we might as well sell America back to the Brits," another quipped.
It’s been 3 years and now they wanna try and do something. 😂🤡
— Beard Man (@BannedB4U) November 19, 2023
😂🤣😂🤣😂😂🤣if America let that happen again, we might as well sell America back to the Brits.
— J M (@jjbanks2) November 20, 2023
Democrats frustrated with messaging strategy
Harris addressed broader frustrations within the Democratic Party regarding the campaign's messaging strategy.
Democrats have expressed concern over polls showing low marks for President Biden on the economy despite low unemployment rates. Some, like former press secretary Michael LaRosa, have called for a messaging recalibration and suggested dropping the "Bidenomics" rhetoric.
Harris defended the administration's efforts, highlighting their focus on issues important to young voters, including the fight against climate change, gun violence reduction, and safeguarding the right to abortion. She praised President Biden for being "resolute, firm, and consistent" in addressing challenges faced by young people in America.
In response to criticisms and concerns, Harris stated, "I have a great sense of duty and responsibility to do as much as I can, to be where the people are and to not only speak with them but listen to them and let them know what we’ve accomplished."
Recent developments have shown potential shifts in support among younger Democrats. Some have expressed dissatisfaction with President Biden's handling of the Israel-Hamas conflict, leading to a decline in his approval among voters aged 18 to 34.
A recent NBC poll indicated that Trump is now leading Biden by 46% to 42% among younger voters, a significant change from the 26-point margin Biden had in 2020.
As the 2024 election approaches, with the South Carolina primary scheduled for Democrats on February 3, Harris emphasized the importance of engaging with voters and addressing their concerns. The general election is set for November 5, 2024, the New York Post reported.