Washington, D.C. – As Vice President Kamala Harris gears up for a potential presidential bid in 2024, Republicans are being cautioned against attacking her using diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) politics. Following President Biden’s announcement that he will not seek re-election and the Democratic Party rallying around Harris as his possible replacement, some GOP members have resorted to criticizing her qualifications based on race and gender.
Rep. Tim Burchett (R-Tenn.) labeled Harris as a “DEI hire,” while Rep. Glenn Grothman (R-Wis.) suggested that Democrats are backing her due to her ethnic background. However, such attacks run the risk of backfiring, as Harris, who is of Jamaican and Indian descent, could become the first female president if she were to ascend to the presidency.
In an effort to appeal to Black voters and women, the Republican Party has been actively courting these key demographics. Hence, insinuating that Harris is only being elevated because of her race or gender could have negative consequences. Party leaders are urging members to focus on policy arguments rather than personal or demographic attacks.
Speaker Mike Johnson (R-La.) emphasized that the campaign should revolve around policies rather than personalities, highlighting that Harris’s ethnicity and gender should not be factors in the discussion. Whitley Yates, director of diversity and engagement for the Indiana Republican Party, echoed the sentiment, stressing the need to steer clear of identity politics in order to build a more diverse coalition.
While some Republicans are standing by their DEI-related criticisms of Harris, others are emphasizing the importance of policy issues over demographics. Despite the differing opinions within the party, there is a mutual understanding that the focus should remain on substantive discussions regarding governance.
The Democrats have swiftly pushed back against the GOP’s DEI attacks, with Congressional Black Caucus Chair Rep. Steven Horsford condemning the comments as “disgusting and offensive.” He highlighted Harris’s extensive experience as a prosecutor, senator, and attorney general of California, dismissing the attacks on DEI as attacks on the entire multiracial society.
As the 2024 election cycle intensifies, Republicans are simultaneously aiming to make headway with minority voters. The inclusion of Amber Rose at the recent Republican National Convention was seen as part of a broader strategy to broaden the party’s appeal and attract voters from traditionally Democratic demographics. House Majority Whip Tom Emmer (R-Minn.) emphasized the need to appeal to a diverse range of voters beyond the party’s traditional base.
In conclusion, the upcoming presidential race is shaping up to be a battleground of ideas and policies rather than personal characteristics or demographic factors. The debates over DEI issues reflect broader discussions within the Republican Party about how to connect with diverse voter groups and present a unified agenda for the future.
