DON’T BUY THE HYPE: Kamala Has BIG Problems

Added: Aug 16, 2024

Kamala Harris's Rising Poll Numbers

The conversation begins with the 2024 presidential race, where recent polling indicates that Kamala Harris has gained an advantage over former President Donald Trump. Shapiro notes that Harris's polling surge follows her defense of President Joe Biden, which has seemingly resonated with voters. Despite this uptick, Shapiro expresses skepticism about the sustainability of her lead, emphasizing that the election remains highly competitive, particularly in key swing states. He highlights that while Harris has enjoyed a favorable shift in polling, she has yet to articulate a clear policy agenda, raising questions about her ability to maintain momentum.

The Biden-Harris Dynamic

A significant portion of the discussion revolves around the complicated relationship between Harris and Biden. Shapiro points out that while Harris is attempting to distance herself from Biden's unpopularity, particularly regarding economic issues, she is also tethered to his administration. This duality creates a precarious situation for her campaign, as she must navigate the challenges of being both a successor and a critic of Biden's policies. Shapiro argues that Harris's strategy of hiding from the press and avoiding unscripted questions is indicative of her vulnerability as a candidate.

Economic Challenges and Policy Proposals

The podcast further explores the economic landscape, with Shapiro critiquing Harris's proposed policies aimed at addressing inflation and economic inequality. The discussion highlights her plans to implement price controls and a federal ban on price gouging, which Shapiro argues are simplistic solutions to complex economic problems. He emphasizes that such measures have historically led to shortages and market distortions, questioning the effectiveness of Harris's approach. Additionally, the conversation touches on the broader implications of her economic policies, including the potential for universal basic income, which Shapiro critiques as a misguided attempt to alleviate poverty.

The Role of the Media

Shapiro discusses the media's role in shaping public perception of Harris and the Biden administration. He notse that the media has largely shielded Harris from scrutiny, allowing her to avoid difficult questions and maintain a favorable image. However, as the election approaches, He suggests that the media may begin to shift its focus, particularly as Biden's administration faces increasing criticism. The potential for negative coverage of Biden's policies and personal controversies, such as those surrounding Hunter Biden, could further complicate Harris's campaign.

The Democratic National Convention

As the Democratic National Convention approaches, Shapiro raises concerns about the potential for protests and unrest, particularly from pro-Palestinian groups. The discussion highlights the internal divisions within the Democratic Party, particularly regarding issues related to Israel and Palestine. Shapiro argues that Harris's attempts to navigate these tensions will be critical as she seeks to unify the party and present a cohesive platform. The potential for protests at the convention underscores the challenges Harris faces in appealing to a diverse and often fractious base.