Kamala Harris Considers 2028 Presidential Run Despite Divided National Opinion

Vice President Kamala Harris is reportedly preparing for a potential presidential run in 2028, despite encountering a challenging national approval rating. She has been building a solid base of support in South Carolina, a crucial state in the Democratic primary process.

Harris’s approach seems to focus on deep community engagement, especially within the African American community, which is a significant part of the Democratic base in South Carolina. Her frequent visits to the state have garnered attention, with notable South Carolina Democrats expressing their backing for her potential candidacy.

An alarming reminder that a vote for Joe Biden is a vote for Kamala Harris to serve as President. https://t.co/x6BAzB46cx

— Tom Cotton (@TomCottonAR) February 6, 2024

Representative James E. Clyburn, a prominent figure in South Carolina politics, has openly endorsed Harris, signaling strong local support that could be influential in a future presidential bid. This support is further reinforced by the sentiments of Trav Robertson, a former chairman of the South Carolina Democratic Party, who highlighted an unspoken connection between Harris and African American women in the state, indicating a deep bond based on shared experiences.

However, Harris’s popularity in South Carolina contrasts with her national approval ratings. According to a January 19 poll by the Five Thirty Eight Project, a majority of Americans disapprove of the Vice President, with only 37.5 percent approving of her performance. This presents a significant challenge for Harris to bridge the gap between her regional appeal and broader national sentiment.

Nikki Haley says “we WILL have a female president” in 2024.

“It will either be me, or it will be Kamala Harris.” pic.twitter.com/dTlXorsu9S

— Julia 🇺🇸 (@Jules31415) February 2, 2024

Despite these challenges, Harris has her strengths. Polling by Emily’s List, a Democratic fundraising organization, found that she has high favorability ratings among key Democratic coalition segments, including Black women, younger voters, and college graduates. These demographics could form the foundation of her support base if she chooses to run.

However, there is a significant portion of Democratic and independent voters who are unfamiliar with Harris’s personal story, her background as California’s attorney general and junior senator, or her accomplishments as vice president. This lack of awareness presents both a hurdle and an opportunity for Harris to clearly define her narrative and accomplishments to the electorate.

Meanwhile, Harris continues to support President Biden’s re-election campaign while nurturing her own political ambitions. Her actions suggest a delicate balance between loyalty to the current administration and the cultivation of her own political future.

As the political landscape evolves, it will be fascinating to see how Vice President Kamala Harris navigates public opinion. With her sights set on 2028, Harris’s journey exemplifies the enduring nature of American political ambition and the ongoing pursuit of higher office.