Vice President Kamala Harris is under fire for her recent media choices, particularly for avoiding traditional press conferences since becoming the Democratic presidential nominee. Instead, she’s opted for less conventional media appearances, the latest being an episode of the popular NBA podcast All the Smoke, hosted by former players Stephen Jackson and Matt Barnes.
Kamala did the All the Smoke pod with @DaTrillStak5 and @Matt_Barnes22 and holy sh*t look at the comments.
Granted, it’s comment section on the internet, small sample size, and I don’t know what the algo feeds…but it’s something. pic.twitter.com/2LWBp8hRS8
— Will Cain (@willcain) September 30, 2024
The 45-minute interview, recorded at Harris’ Washington, D.C. home, was wide-ranging, touching on her loyalty to the Golden State Warriors, policies, and personal topics like family and racial identity. While Harris reminisced about the Warriors’ “We Believe” era, when Jackson and Barnes played for the team, the conversation soon shifted to heavier topics like civil rights, mental health in the Black community, and her plans to pass police reform.
Despite some viewers praising the interview for its balance of personality and policy, Harris faced criticism for her media strategy. Many felt she was avoiding tough questions, choosing instead to appear on friendly platforms that don’t challenge her on key issues.
This critique comes alongside a New York Times editorial board endorsement that simultaneously cautioned Harris against shielding herself from difficult questions, suggesting it could undermine her message of being a capable leader ready to take over from President Biden.
NEW: Kamala Harris starts laughing uncontrollably while podcast hosts Matt Barnes & Stephen Jackson awkwardly listen.
Kamala Harris was on the ‘All The Smoke’ podcast when she started talking about her friends and family.
Harris: “My best friend from kindergarten is still one… pic.twitter.com/26gBYmn0BD
— Collin Rugg (@CollinRugg) September 30, 2024
Harris’ decision to engage with non-traditional outlets like podcasts and social media platforms, such as TikTok and MSNBC, has raised eyebrows, especially as the vice president continues to avoid a solo press conference more than 70 days into her presidential campaign. With Election Day approaching, her media choices are drawing both support from fans and scrutiny from critics who question whether she’s fully addressing the concerns of the electorate.
While Harris emphasized policies like expanding the Child Tax Credit and first-time homebuyer assistance, the interview remained largely lighthearted, with her sharing personal anecdotes and even inviting the hosts to a Sunday dinner. However, online reactions were mixed, with some praising the episode as a relatable and personal moment, while others criticized her for not engaging more directly with the press on critical issues.
WATCH🚨: Kamala Harris unveils a new accent with the All The Smoke Podcast…
Why is she so cringe 😬
pic.twitter.com/ErLDUwwVI4— Officer Lew (@officer_Lew) September 30, 2024
