In a recent interview on CBS’s 60 Minutes, U.S. Vice President Kamala Harris was pressed on a variety of key topics, including U.S. relations with Israel and the ongoing conflict in the Middle East. This interview aired just weeks before Election Day, highlighting the tense political climate as Kamala Harris, the Democratic nominee for vice president, faced tough questions from interviewer Bill Whitaker.
When asked whether Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu remains a strong ally of the United States, Harris carefully navigated the question, avoiding a direct endorsement of Netanyahu. Instead, she emphasized the importance of the broader relationship between the American and Israeli people. Kamala Harris stated, “The work that we do diplomatically with the leadership of Israel is an ongoing pursuit around making clear our principles.” She continued, “The better question is, do we have an important alliance between the American people and the Israeli people? And the answer to that question is yes.” This response comes amid recent public disagreements between the Biden administration and Israel over various policies.
Immigration and Border Policies Under Scrutiny
The immigration debate has been one of the most contentious issues facing the Biden-Harris administration, and it was no surprise that Whitaker pressed Kamala Harris on this topic. Specifically, he questioned whether the administration made a mistake by loosening the border restrictions implemented during Donald Trump’s presidency, only to reintroduce stricter policies three years later. Kamala Harris defended the administration’s actions, explaining that immigration reform has been a longstanding challenge. She pointed the finger at Trump, stating that his influence over Republican lawmakers thwarted efforts to pass comprehensive immigration reform.
In response to further questioning, Kamala Harris insisted that the administration’s approach was aimed at solving the problem rather than exacerbating it. She asserted that “the policies we have been proposing are about fixing a problem, not promoting a problem,” noting that illegal immigration had been cut by half under her and Biden’s leadership. Despite this claim, immigration remains a divisive issue, with critics arguing that the administration’s policies have contributed to a surge in migrants at the southern border.
Kamala Harris’s Views on Ukraine and U.S. Foreign Policy
The war in Ukraine also featured prominently in Kamala Harris’s 60 Minutes interview, especially given the high stakes of U.S. involvement in the conflict. When asked whether she would engage in talks with Russian President Vladimir Putin, Harris categorically ruled out any such discussions unless Ukrainian officials were also present at the negotiating table. Her stance on the matter was clear: diplomacy must include Ukraine as a key stakeholder in any peace talks.
Kamala Harris used the opportunity to take a swipe at her Republican opponent, Donald Trump, who has frequently boasted that he could end the war in Ukraine “on day one” if re-elected. She dismissed Trump’s claim as a capitulation, stating, “He talks about, oh, he can end it on day one. You know what that is? It’s about surrender.” She went on to suggest that if Trump had remained in office, “Putin would be in Kyiv right now.” Kamala Harris’s sharp critique of Trump’s foreign policy positions reflects the broader Democratic argument that their leadership is critical to upholding democracy and stability on the global stage.
U.S. Debt and Economic Policy Proposals
The topic of U.S. debt and economic policy was another key issue addressed during Harris’s interview. As concerns grow over the country’s ballooning debt, Kamala Harris was asked how her administration planned to tackle the issue while still pursuing ambitious economic programs. Whitaker pressed Harris on the fact that her proposed plans could potentially add $3 trillion to the national deficit over the next decade.
Kamala Harris responded by emphasizing that her economic plan was designed to strengthen America’s economy by bolstering small businesses and promoting growth. She compared her proposal to Trump’s, arguing that his economic strategy would significantly worsen the U.S. debt. “My economic plan would strengthen America’s economy. His would weaken it,” Harris said.
When asked how she would fund her initiatives, Kamala Harris made it clear that the wealthy would bear the burden, stating that taxes would be raised on “the richest among us who can afford it.” According to a report by the Committee for a Responsible Federal Budget, Trump’s proposals would add $7.5 trillion to the national debt, compared to Kamala Harris’s $3.5 trillion increase. While the debate over the U.S. debt continues to intensify, Kamala Harris defended her vision for economic reform as a necessary investment in the nation’s future.
Gun Ownership and Personal Firearm Use
During the interview, Kamala Harris also touched on a more personal topic: gun ownership. A former district attorney in California, Harris disclosed that she owns a Glock pistol, manufactured by the Austrian company. She noted that her experience in law enforcement had shaped her views on responsible gun ownership. When asked whether she had ever fired the weapon, Harris laughed and confirmed that she had, though only at a shooting range.
This revelation may resonate with voters on both sides of the gun control debate, as Kamala Harris presents herself as someone who respects the right to bear arms while also advocating for stricter gun laws. Gun ownership remains a polarizing issue in the United States, and Harris’s acknowledgment of owning a firearm might soften criticism from Second Amendment advocates while underscoring her commitment to law and order.
Kamala Harris’s 60 Minutes interview offered a glimpse into the critical issues shaping the 2024 election. From foreign policy and immigration to economic strategy and personal views on gun ownership, Kamala Harris presented herself as a leader prepared to tackle the nation’s most pressing challenges. As Election Day approaches, this interview will likely play a key role in shaping public opinion and framing the debates between the candidates.
