Some surrogates for Vice President Kamala Harris attribute her loss to President Joe Biden’s late withdrawal from the race. However, many analysts reject this, calling it an oversimplification. They argue that Harris’s campaign faced strategic missteps, a disconnect with voters, and her own political vulnerabilities.

Some believe Biden’s earlier exit could have helped Harris build momentum. Critics counter that her struggles with key voting blocs and Republican attacks on her were more significant issues. Former Mayor Willie Brown pointed out her campaign lacked a clear message and struggled to distance her from Biden’s controversies.

Harris’s candidacy faced challenges, from dissatisfaction with Biden’s handling of issues to a lack of enthusiasm from young, Black, and Latino voters. Her approval ratings were lower than Biden’s, and Trump capitalized on negative perceptions of her. Additionally, her campaign faced a fundraising disadvantage against Trump.

Strategic missteps also hurt her campaign, particularly a lack of a clear policy agenda. Despite attacking Trump, Harris struggled to present a compelling vision for the future. In the debates, she couldn’t change the race’s trajectory as Trump dominated by appealing to his base.

Democratic leaders are now reflecting on Harris’s loss. Some believe she was in an impossible position, while others call for stronger national candidates and a broader message. The party must rebuild and reassess its strategy for the future.