Tensions between the Biden White House and Vice President Kamala Harris’ campaign have reportedly been growing, according to a recent Axios report.
Political correspondent Alex Thompson highlighted instances of frustration and miscommunication that have added strain to an already delicate situation. These issues seem to stem from a lack of coordination, as well as differing perspectives on campaign strategies and priorities.
Thompson reported that some senior Biden aides are still adjusting to the fact that Biden stepped aside, allowing Harris to lead the ticket. He noted that many in Biden’s camp feel sidelined, which has created a sense of unease and emotional fallout.
“They’re too much in their feelings,” a Harris ally reportedly told Axios, indicating that some Biden aides are struggling with their new roles as supporters on the campaign trail.
One of the core complaints from Harris’ team is that the White House isn’t effectively aligning Biden’s public appearances and messages with the needs of the Harris campaign.
For example, on one occasion, Biden held a surprise press conference while Harris was attending a significant event in Michigan, which potentially overshadowed her appearance.
Another point of contention came when Biden praised Florida Governor Ron DeSantis for his hurricane response, shortly after Harris criticized DeSantis for not returning her calls.
According to sources, Biden had not been briefed on Harris’ comments before making his own, highlighting a breakdown in communication.
Harris aides have expressed frustration that there isn’t enough emphasis on how decisions made in the White House might impact the vice president’s campaign.
“The White House is lacking someone in the room thinking first and foremost about how things would affect the campaign,” a Harris aide reportedly told Axios.
Despite these tensions, many Biden aides are reportedly rooting for Harris and wish her success. However, the Axios report mentioned that there are ongoing challenges with staffers who are transitioning from Biden’s team to Harris’ campaign.
Some Biden aides feel a sense of disloyalty is associated with making this shift, causing further tension. The transition has not been entirely smooth, with awkwardness between original Biden campaign staff and Harris allies.
Thompson noted that in the early weeks following Harris’ nomination as the Democratic candidate, there were internal debates over whether Biden’s primary surrogates on television should continue in their roles or be replaced by new voices.
This dynamic has added to the complications of an already sensitive campaign season.
White House Deputy Press Secretary Andrew Bates responded to Axios, emphasizing Biden’s support for Harris. Bates underscored that Biden endorsed Harris immediately after leaving the race and rejected other strategies that might divide the party.
He noted that Biden has consistently expressed his confidence in Harris’ leadership, and significant efforts have been made to ensure that Harris’ team has the necessary resources and support.
“We have made significant changes to guarantee the Vice President’s team has all of the support and resources that they need. This builds on a strong, trusting relationship between both teams, which has been critical to successfully executing an unprecedented transition to a new candidate,” Bates explained.
Fox News correspondent Jacqui Heinrich reported on the ongoing strain within the Biden camp regarding Harris’ approach to certain issues. According to sources close to Biden, Harris’ recent criticisms of DeSantis were viewed as unwise and unnecessary.
These sources suggested that Harris’ actions put Biden in challenging positions, detracting from the broader campaign goals. They also expressed concerns that despite Biden providing Harris with opportunities to showcase her leadership, there have been moments where she hasn’t met expectations.
The Harris campaign has yet to officially respond to these reports. The coming weeks will reveal whether these two teams can find a smoother path forward, aligning their goals and strategies for the general election.
As the campaign intensifies, maintaining unity within the Democratic ranks will be essential for a successful bid.
