I remember the moment I realized that Kamala Harris wasn’t the right candidate for me during the 2020 presidential race. It was just before the second Democratic primary debate, and the issue of college student debt was a hot topic. Senators Bernie Sanders and Elizabeth Warren were promising significant relief to borrowers without any conditions.
On July 26, 2019, Harris announced her student loan forgiveness program. I was not impressed when I saw the details. It seemed like a complicated, means-tested policy that only a few people would qualify for: $20,000 in relief for those who were poor enough to receive a Pell Grant in college, started a business in an economically disadvantaged area, and kept it running for at least three years. These small-scale policies were unlikely to defeat someone like Donald Trump.
My skepticism towards Harris was unexpected because we shared similar backgrounds: ambitious biracial, bicultural Black women of a certain age in a competitive field that historically hasn’t been inclusive. I admired her achievements and thought she would be someone I’d enjoy having a drink with, but as a candidate, she didn’t impress me. I don’t even remember my strong feelings about Joe Biden choosing her as his running mate.
Surprisingly, I found myself becoming a supporter of Kamala Harris, also known as being “coconut-pilled.” This term refers to converts to the Harris 2024 camp, inspired by her mother’s words. However, I must admit that I feel a bit embarrassed to be rooting for any politician.
As a journalist, I’ve always kept my political views private. I’ve voted in every election, but I’ve tried to remain neutral. Being a reporter, especially a foreign correspondent for most of my career, I’ve always approached those in power with skepticism, if not outright hostility. Yet, after watching the disastrous June debate between Biden and Trump, I wrote enthusiastically about how I believed Harris should lead the ticket and could defeat Trump.
Many people are now questioning their feelings towards Harris and whether she is capable of the job. After years of lukewarm feelings towards her, the sudden surge of endorsements, donations, and support for Harris has been remarkable. Whether it’s relief that Biden stepped aside or fear of Trump’s momentum following recent events, there has been an unexpected rallying around Harris.
It’s clear that my journey from skepticism to support for Kamala Harris has been unexpected, but I believe that she has the potential to lead the country effectively. As more people reevaluate their opinions of her, it’s evident that Harris has garnered significant momentum and support, positioning her as a strong contender in the upcoming election.
