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The Impact of Political Promises: An Insider’s Perspective on the Biden-Harris Dynamic

In Citizen
January 18, 2025

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Discussing Politics

A supporter of Harris claims that Biden did not keep a promise. Senator Laphonza Butler, a Democrat from California, was interviewed during her last week in the Senate.

Written by Lisa Lerer

Laphonza Butler has been a senator from California for a short period of 15 months. However, she has been a strong supporter and friend of Vice President Kamala Harris for a significant span of 15 years.

Earlier this week, I had a conversation with Butler, who has had a longstanding partnership with Harris. They first crossed paths when Butler was working as a union leader in Los Angeles. This partnership gives Butler a unique insight into why her political party lost the presidential election and what steps can be taken to rejuvenate it.

Harris has not discussed in detail the reasons for her loss in public. According to Butler, part of the blame lies with President Biden, who she believes went back on his promise not to run for re-election. However, simply pointing fingers at Biden is not sufficient. Democrats need to shift from talking to actively listening, according to Butler.

Governor Gavin Newsom selected Butler to take over the U.S. Senate position that became vacant after Senator Dianne Feinstein passed away in September 2023. Since Feinstein chose not to seek re-election, this week marks her final days in office. On Monday, Representative Adam Schiff will officially become California’s newest senator.

The interview was condensed and clarified for brevity.

LL: What is your opinion on why Harris did not win?

LB: The American people desired a different direction and were looking for a candidate who they believed embodied that change. I believe that’s the main reason behind it.

Was it a mistake for Biden to run for

When President Biden first took office, he indicated that he would be a transitional leader. Many people expected this of him, and it may have been better for him to stick to that plan. While it is undeniable that his presidency has been successful, it will likely be remembered as one of the most impactful in my generation. However, once expectations are set, it is important to follow through on them.

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