Vice President Kamala Harris is facing backlash for sidestepping questions in recent interviews. Media critics are frustrated with her lack of direct answers.
Peggy Noonan from The Wall Street Journal didn’t hold back. "She couldn’t or wouldn’t answer a single question straight," Noonan said. She described Harris as an "artless dodger," giving voters a choice between "awful and empty."
Harris spoke at the National Association of Black Journalists and with Oprah Winfrey, who endorsed her at the DNC. Still, she hasn’t held a formal press conference since becoming the nominee.
Noonan argued that Harris owes the public clear answers. She called it "political malpractice" for dodging questions, especially on illegal immigration.
The New York Times' Todd Purdum echoed the sentiment. He stressed the importance of specifics, especially in a tight race with Trump dominating the narrative.
Purdum emphasized that vague responses won’t cut it. Harris needs to go beyond rehearsed speeches if she hopes to sway undecided voters.
In his view, voters are looking for direct, concise answers. "Direct answers would go a long way," Purdum noted, suggesting it could help voters feel more connected to her.
He concluded that Harris underestimates how much straightforward responses could benefit her in this critical moment.