Vice President Kamala Harris, in an event alongside former Wyoming Rep. Liz Cheney in Milwaukee, recently made a last-ditch effort to sway moderate voters — the critical undecided group that could decide the election. Yet, despite the serious nature of the issues discussed, the tone seemed more suited to “The Lincoln Project” crowd than the swing voters she desperately needs to reach.
The event centered on criticisms of former President Donald Trump, his disregard for the Constitution, and the chaotic events surrounding January 6. While these are undeniably significant issues, many of the people still undecided at this late stage of the race are unlikely to be swayed by a rehash of Trump’s character flaws. The campaign rhetoric was steeped in the past, focused on condemning Trump, rather than laying out a clear vision for the future.
When asked by moderator Charlie Sykes to make her pitch to voters who used to vote Republican but were now unsure, Harris did little to reassure them. Her answer focused on the abstract values of democracy, rule of law, and national unity — a message that may resonate in principle but lacked concrete policy specifics or a vision for governance that would appeal to those in the political center. Not once did Harris directly acknowledge the challenges that moderates might face in voting for a liberal candidate. No mention was made of her prior commitments to bipartisanship, or how she might bridge divides within a polarized Washington.
It wasn’t for lack of opportunity. With the nation’s political fabric more divided than ever, moderates want to hear what the Democratic vice president would do to bridge those divides. The problem is that Harris seems unable, or unwilling, to present a clear governing agenda beyond opposition to Trump.
This reluctance mirrors the problems that plagued Hillary Clinton’s 2016 campaign, where a heavy focus on Trump’s flaws came at the expense of articulating a compelling forward-looking agenda. One Democratic lawmaker even texted: “You picking up 2016 vibes?”
The stakes are high, but Harris seems caught in a holding pattern. While condemnation of Trump’s actions and character remains important, merely replaying these talking points isn’t enough. In a race that remains competitive despite an otherwise turbulent year for Democrats, Harris must go beyond focusing on what’s wrong with Trump and offer a compelling vision for what she would do as president.
Cheney, a well-known anti-Trump Republican voice, offered a measured endorsement, saying that while they may not agree on everything, Harris could be trusted to lead with a sincere heart and uphold the rule of law. But this kind of endorsement from Cheney, no matter how well-intentioned, underscores the problem — Harris remains a figure defined by others, rather than a leader who commands confidence through her own policy vision.
It’s clear that voters want to know what Harris stands for beyond merely opposing Trump. The current focus on the past, while still important, may not have the traction needed to attract undecided voters who are looking for assurance on how the next administration will lead the country forward.
As Harris faces an onslaught of television ads painting her as a far-left figure, she has yet to offer a compelling counter-narrative. If she doesn’t make a clear case for why she should be the next president — one that speaks directly to moderates and undecided voters — she risks letting the election slip away. While attacking Trump’s character may energize her base, it won’t be enough to win over the crucial swing voters who could decide this race. Harris must act quickly — the clock is ticking.
