In a recent jaw-dropping moment, Donald Trump left a room of Black journalists in utter disbelief with a remark about Vice President Kamala Harris. He suggested that Harris “happened to turn Black” only recently. This statement came amid a series of bizarre mispronunciations of Harris' name and comments suggesting that she would be treated as a “play toy” by global leaders. It's clear that Trump’s attacks are set to continue with a mix of racism and misogyny until Election Day.
As the Democratic National Convention convened in Chicago, the advice for Harris from many women of color was straightforward: "Don’t take the bait." Rev. Shari Nichols-Sweat, a retired high school music teacher and member of Harris’ sorority, Alpha Kappa Alpha, emphasized the importance of ignoring the inflammatory rhetoric. Nichols-Sweat had just watched Harris' convention speech at the United Center and shared her thoughts on how Harris should handle the attacks.
Harris herself has responded to Trump’s remarks with a calm demeanor, viewing such comments as part of a familiar script of disrespect. Rather than expressing anger, she dismisses Trump and his allies with a light touch, labeling them as “weird” and Trump as an “unserious man.” This approach reflects Harris' commitment to focusing on her work rather than getting caught up in personal attacks.
A major moment is on the horizon: Harris will face Trump in a primetime debate in Philadelphia on September 10. This debate will be a critical opportunity for Trump to escalate his attacks in front of a national audience. Harris is already preparing intensively for this showdown, working with her campaign team to strategize her responses to Trump’s likely tactics.
Michelle Obama, in her convention speech, addressed the racist and personal attacks directed at Harris. She cautioned that such attacks are meant to distort Harris’ background and achievements. Obama, drawing from her own experiences with Trump’s “birther” accusations against Barack Obama, advised Harris to avoid being petty. “Going small is never the answer,” Obama said, emphasizing that rising above the negativity is key to maintaining presidential dignity.
Similarly, Angela Alsobrooks, a Democratic Senate candidate who might make history as Maryland's first Black Senator, sees Trump's attacks as a sign of desperation. Alsobrooks points out that Harris' presence and candidacy have energized and mobilized voters. “He attacks her because she wins,” she says, urging Harris to remain steadfast and continue her impactful work.
Alexandria Alston, a Chicago-based fashion designer who attended Harris' speech, praised Harris for not letting Trump’s insults get under her skin. Alston noted that the Vice President is wisely keeping her focus on her priorities and not getting sidetracked by provocations. “Sometimes when people attack you, you have to look forward and not necessarily give them so much attention,” Alston commented. She believes this election cycle is different, and voters are wise to Trump’s tactics.
Krystal Kidd from Southfield, Michigan, also weighed in, expressing disappointment in Trump’s behavior. “I’m really disappointed because I really thought he was a dynamic businessman once upon a time,” Kidd said. She feels that Trump’s attacks only serve to diminish him in the eyes of the public.
At the convention, there was a consensus that Harris should ignore Trump's attempts to provoke her. “She doesn’t have to do anything to push back against him,” Kidd remarked. “Everything she’s worked for speaks for her.” This sentiment echoed throughout the convention, underscoring a unified belief in Harris’ ability to rise above the noise and focus on her mission.
As the election approaches, Harris' handling of these attacks will likely play a crucial role in shaping public perception. Her strategy to rise above the personal jabs and focus on substantive issues may well define her campaign’s trajectory. In the meantime, supporters and commentators alike are rallying behind her, encouraging her to stay true to her path and not get derailed by Trump’s provocations.
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