Democratic strategist James Carville has outlined a three-pronged plan for Vice President Kamala Harris to secure a win in the upcoming election. In an op-ed published in the New York Times, Carville argued that Harris’s relative unknown status can be leveraged to her advantage, positioning her as the “change” candidate in contrast to the well-known, yet polarizing, figure of former President Donald Trump.
Carville noted that Trump’s enduring presence in politics, despite his controversies, has created a unique opportunity for Harris. “Whether they love him or hate him, people know exactly what Mr. Trump’s shtick is,” Carville wrote, adding that Trump’s approval ratings have remained relatively consistent despite the tumult of his presidency.
Carville’s advice comes on the heels of a memo from Harris’s campaign chairwoman, Jen O’Malley Dillon, which referred to Harris and Governor Tim Walz (D-MN) as “clear underdogs” despite their leads in several polls.
To capitalize on Trump’s divisive persona, Carville counseled Harris to “help Trump hurt himself” during their upcoming debate on ABC News. He suggested that Harris should allow Trump to dominate the conversation, goading him into spouting conspiracy theories and using her sense of humor to deflect his personal attacks.
Carville also pointed to Harris’s recent CNN interview, in which she declined to engage with Trump’s personal attacks on her racial identity, as a model for her debate strategy. He advised Harris to “welcome the personal attacks as a badge of honor” and maintain her composure in the face of Trump’s provocations.
Furthermore, Carville urged Harris to differentiate herself from President Joe Biden’s policies, embracing a “certified fresh” approach that showcases her unique vision for the presidency. By doing so, Harris can establish a clear identity and set of priorities that will define her campaign.
Finally, Carville cautioned Harris to anticipate and address criticism of her policy reversals, which are likely to be a recurring theme throughout the campaign. He recommended that Harris develop a clear, consistent response to these attacks, emphasizing her growth and evolution as a leader during her time in the White House.
