Psaki Critiques Harris’ Campaign End Strategy, Democrats’ Elite Language
Former Biden White House Press Secretary Jen Psaki has criticized former Vice President Kamala Harris’ campaign end strategy, particularly her decision to campaign with Liz Cheney and rely on ‘elite language’ that failed to connect with voters.
Campaign Closure and Strategy
In an interview with Jon Stewart for his podcast "The Weekly Show," Psaki expressed her doubts about the wisdom of Harris’ closing strategy.
"I don’t think closing the campaign with a message about fighting democracy with a former Republican member of Congress was the right strategy," Psaki told Stewart.
Psaki acknowledged Cheney’s heroism in heading the House’s Jan. 6 committee and endorsing Harris for president. However, she maintained that Cheney was not the cause of the Democrats’ loss in the 2024 election.
Disconnect from Voters
Psaki instead attributed the loss to a broader failure among Democrats to communicate a message that resonated with ordinary Americans.
"I think we were speaking in a manner that was so academic, an Ivory Tower, it wasn’t talking about a lot of the things people actually care about… I think they voted in some ways against protection of status quo and the disconnected, academic, Ivory Tower elite language that is too often used by Democrats," she said.
Psaki argued that the Democrats had become the "party of the government, the party of the status quo," which had led them to lose touch with the concerns of most Americans.
Cross-Authoritarianism and Oligarchy
Psaki emphasized the importance of crafting a message that directly addressed the concerns of everyday Americans.
"One of my takeaways after the election was cross-authoritarianism and oligarchy out of every script. Nobody talks this way," she said.
Liz Cheney’s Role
Liz Cheney, the daughter of former Vice President Dick Cheney, was once a supporter of President Donald Trump. However, their relationship soured after the January 6 riot at the U.S. Capitol.
Cheney became one of only ten Republicans to vote to impeach Trump after the riot, and subsequently lost her Wyoming House seat after Trump endorsed her primary challenger.
Despite her initial support for Trump, Cheney headed the House Jan. 6 committee and was later accused by House Republicans of engaging in witness tampering.
Biden’s Pardon and Trump’s Attacks
In the waning days of the 2024 election, Trump attacked Cheney, labeling her a "radical war hawk."
Before leaving office, Biden granted Cheney a pre-emptive pardon, along with Anthony Fauci and several other Trump antagonists.
Stewart’s Lament
During the podcast, Stewart expressed his concern that the Democrats had become too focused on government and institutions and had lost sight of the struggles faced by ordinary Americans.
Psaki concurred, acknowledging that Democrats had failed to adequately address the concerns of the electorate.
Conclusion
Psaki’s critique of Harris’ campaign strategy and the Democrats’ overall messaging offers valuable insights into the challenges facing the party. Her emphasis on connecting with voters through clear and accessible language is a reminder of the importance of authenticity in political communication.
