Let’s talk about the recent media blitz involving Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer, who’s been put in the hot seat defending Vice President Kamala Harris’ policy positions. This all unfolded during an appearance on NBC News' “Meet the Press” where Whitmer, who’s also a co-chair of Harris' campaign, tried to back up her candidate's stances. Let’s just say it didn’t go as planned.
The conversation kicked off with a tough question about President Joe Biden’s historically low approval ratings and whether Harris should be doing more to distance herself from him. Whitmer’s response? She boldly claimed that Biden is destined to be remembered as one of the greatest presidents in recent history and that Harris has been a crucial partner in his administration’s successes. That’s a bold take, especially when the polls tell a different story. But Whitmer insisted that the Biden-Harris team has delivered for the American people, even if it didn’t quite resonate with the audience.
Harris campaign co-chair Gretchen Whitmer: Kamala Harris and Biden are "partners" in their failures pic.twitter.com/T8VATghEmQ
— RNC Research (@RNCResearch) August 18, 2024
Things got more heated when the topic shifted to Harris’ proposal to ban price gouging by food companies. Welker pointed out that this policy has been criticized from all sides, with some even calling it a gimmick. When pressed on whether this was the right move to tackle inflation, Whitmer seemed to sidestep the question, suggesting that critics were overanalyzing the proposal. She emphasized Harris’ focus on making healthcare more affordable and protecting Obamacare, but the lack of a direct answer didn’t go unnoticed.
Welker wasn’t letting up, though. She asked if this plan to ban price gouging was anything more than a gimmick, given the criticism it has received. Whitmer tried to frame the policy as a reflection of Harris’ values—wanting consumers to keep more money in their pockets while ensuring corporate responsibility. But again, it was a response that felt more like a deflection than a solid defense.
NBC: Do you think Kamala's communist price control scheme is the best way to bring down prices in Michigan?
Harris campaign co-chair Gretchen Whitmer: "People are reading too much into what has been put out there."
— RNC Research (@RNCResearch) August 18, 2024
Then came the question about Harris' past radical stances, like supporting single-payer healthcare and banning fracking. Welker asked if Harris needs to do more to explain her shift on these positions. Whitmer responded with a laugh that seemed less than genuine, then pivoted to attacking former President Donald Trump, calling his years in office a failure and claiming he offers no real vision for the country.
The interview wrapped up with a discussion about a recent incident where Harris was heckled by pro-Hamas protesters during a speech. When asked if Harris handled the situation well, Whitmer chose not to criticize, instead highlighting Harris’ care for all voters, emphasizing that she understands the concerns of different communities.
NBC: Kamala Harris has called for banning fracking, supporting single-payer health care, and eliminating private health insurance. Does she need to better explain her positions?
Harris campaign co-chair Gretchen Whitmer: *laughs* pic.twitter.com/701pQX0jQd
— RNC Research (@RNCResearch) August 18, 2024