Quick Hit

Vice President Kamala Harris has recently asserted her readiness to serve and her capacity to lead, amidst concerns about President Biden's advanced age. However, her comments have sparked backlash from critics, including members of her own party, who question her track record and her ability to effectively handle her current responsibilities.

Key Details

• Vice President Harris has been criticized for her handling of the border crisis, a responsibility delegated to her by President Biden.
• Republican strategists suggest that Harris' comments indicate her belief that Biden is struggling with his role as President.
• A recent book, "Amateur Hour: Kamala Harris in the White House," suggests that Biden himself had reservations about Harris' ability to serve as commander in chief.

Diving Deeper 

When asked about President Biden's advanced age and the concerns voters have expressed, Vice President Kamala Harris confidently stated, "I am ready to serve — there's no question about that." However, her assertion has been met with criticism from both sides of the political aisle. Critics argue that Harris' performance in office, particularly her handling of the border crisis, does not inspire confidence in her capacity to lead.

A Democratic insider suggested that if Harris is indeed ready to serve, she should start by effectively addressing her current role as border czar. The ongoing crisis at the southern border has been a significant point of contention, with critics arguing that Harris has failed to adequately address the issue.

Republican strategists have interpreted Harris' comments as an indication that she believes Biden is struggling with his role as President. One strategist suggested that Harris is attempting to signal to Democratic donors and delegates that she would be ready to step in if something were to happen to Biden. However, the strategist also pointed out that every issue Harris has touched has seemingly worsened, casting doubt on her ability to effectively lead.

The release of the book "Amateur Hour: Kamala Harris in the White House" has added fuel to the fire. The book suggests that Biden himself had reservations about Harris' ability to serve as commander in chief, and that he initially preferred Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer as his running mate in 2020.

Despite the criticism, Harris has continued to defend her readiness to serve and her capacity to lead. She has repeatedly defended Biden over questions about his age and mental acuity, and has taken on a number of high-profile responsibilities during her time in office. However, her handling of these responsibilities, particularly the border crisis, has been a point of contention for critics.