Vance Defends Trump Over Controversial Remarks About Harris’ Racial Identity
In an unexpected turn of events, JD Vance, the Republican vice presidential nominee, has defended former President Donald Trump’s false claims regarding Vice President Kamala Harris’ racial identity. Vance went on record stating that it was “totally reasonable” for Trump to describe Harris as someone who “pretends to be somebody different, depending on the audience she’s talking to.”
Background of the Incident
The controversy sparked when Trump, at the National Association of Black Journalists’ convention, made the unfounded claim that Harris – a biracial woman born to an Indian mother and Jamaican father who both immigrated to the United States – “happened to turn Black” in recent years. Vance, himself a father to three biracial children, expressed no concerns over Trump’s comments. He said his former running mate was merely suggesting that Harris is “chameleon-like” in her behavior.
Harris Responds to Trump’s Claims
A spokesperson for Harris’ campaign fired back at Vance’s comments, calling him “the most unpopular Vice Presidential nominee in history.” The spokesperson criticized Vance and Trump for promoting division with their rhetoric when they have no substantial plan for the country’s progression.
Trump’s misleading remarks about Harris’ racial identity have not only sparked a political controversy but potentially hindered his campaign’s efforts to gain traction with non-White voters.
In response to Trump’s false comments, Harris, who was born in California and attended the historically Black Howard University, spoke out during a Black sorority gathering in Houston. She reminded viewers that she has never once downplayed her racial identity and argued that “the American people deserve better.”
An Unfamiliar Stance
Interestingly, Vance, who once labeled Trump a “moral disaster” and accused him of campaigning using racist rhetoric, now appears to be backing the former president. He claimed that Harris should clarify her shifts in policy stances and answer the American people’s questions. Vance defended his own policy changes, stating, “It’s reasonable to change your mind.”
Trump’s Evasiveness on VP Readiness Question
During the same interview, Vance defended Trump for evading a question about whether he believed the Ohio senator was prepared to assume the presidency. Trump suggested that voters generally focus on the top of the ticket, not the vice presidential pick. In response, Vance assured that he was “absolutely ready” to take on the role of president, crediting his experience as a businessman, United States Marine, and senator.
Vance’s Views on Border Security
Vance, who has been critical of the Biden administration’s handling of border security, has aimed some of his sharpest criticism at Harris, who was entrusted with overseeing diplomatic efforts in Central America. This issue has been one of the key talking points of Vance’s campaign. He has insisted that the Biden administration has all the necessary tools and just needs to give Border Patrol the authority to prevent illegal immigration. Vance further stated that Harris, as the “border czar,” should exercise her authority in this regard.
