Former US Vice President Kamala Harris has said she plans to remain involved in shaping the Democratic Party and speaking up on economic and civil rights issues, regardless of whether she runs for president in 2028.
In an interview with The Associated Press, Harris said she was encouraged by the wide range of voters who supported Democrats in the November 3 midterm elections. She pointed to the party's reach across different regions, age groups and political views.
“I mean geographically, ideologically, generationally,” Harris said, adding that the results could not be explained through a simple description of the country or the Democratic Party.
Deep Dive
Has Kamala Harris decided whether to run for president in 2028?
How does Kamala Harris plan to contribute to the Democratic Party after the midterms?
What did the midterm results show about Democratic voters and representation?
Harris said the election showed that Democrats had support across different sections of the population. She also stressed that the party must focus on issues that affect voters in their daily lives.
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Harris calls for focus on economic issues
During the midterm campaign, Harris spent much of her time reaching out to Black and Latino voters. However, she said the party's work should not be limited to specific communities.
{{/usCountry}}During the midterm campaign, Harris spent much of her time reaching out to Black and Latino voters. However, she said the party's work should not be limited to specific communities.
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According to Harris, Democrats need to deliver on economic concerns and civil rights issues for voters across different backgrounds.
Her comments come as Democrats look at the results of the midterm elections and consider their direction ahead of the next presidential race. The party's performance has also brought renewed attention to its leadership and the people who could shape its future.
Harris did not confirm whether she would seek the Democratic nomination in 2028. Instead, she made clear that her involvement in politics would continue regardless of her decision.
What role does Harris see for herself?
Harris said she believes she has a responsibility to help shape the party's direction, particularly by raising issues and supporting voices connected to her experience.
“I believe I have a responsibility to contribute to the direction of a party, in particular around lifting up voices and issues that I have an experience with,” she told the AP.
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She added that this has been part of how she has approached her career and would not change if she were no longer holding public office.
“It’s how I’ve conducted myself throughout my career, and whether I’m in office or not, that’s the role I feel compelled to play,” Harris said.
Her remarks suggest that she intends to remain active in Democratic politics while keeping her options open on a possible 2028 presidential campaign.
Harris's comments also leave open the question of how she will contribute to the party in the coming years.