Mark Kelly avoids answering questions about Kamala Harris changing her policies
Senator Mark Kelly from Arizona is considered a frontrunner to become Vice President Kamala Harris’ running mate in the upcoming 2024 election. In recent interviews, Kelly avoided directly addressing several controversial policy positions previously held by Harris.
When asked about Harris’ past support for initiatives such as providing Medicare for undocumented immigrants, decriminalizing illegal border crossings, abolishing ICE, and banning fracking, Kelly sidestepped providing a clear answer. Despite being pressed multiple times, the senator remained non-committal on whether he aligned with Harris’ previous positions.
During Harris’ 2019 presidential campaign, she expressed her opposition to denying any individual access to public safety, education, or health care based on their immigration status. Additionally, she stated her support for not treating undocumented immigrants crossing the border as criminals and called for ICE to be critically reevaluated, hinting at the need for a potential overhaul.
However, since assuming her role in the Biden administration, Harris has walked back on some of these stances, adopting a more moderate approach to issues like immigration enforcement, border security, and the criminalization of border crossers. Her recent actions and statements have showcased a shift towards bipartisan policies and positions.
Senator Kelly voiced his approval of Harris’ border management in her current role as vice president. He commended the administration’s handling of executive actions at the border, signaling his agreement with their approach to the issue.
One contentious topic that raised questions was fracking. While Harris previously advocated for a ban on fracking during her presidential bid, her campaign has now clarified that she does not support such a ban. Instead, they have emphasized the administration’s efforts to create energy jobs and maintain progress in the sector.
As Harris prepares to announce her chosen running mate, speculation surrounds Kelly’s potential selection for the role. Alongside other candidates under consideration, Kelly stands out as a contender for the position.
With ongoing discussions and evolving policy positions, the political landscape leading up to the 2024 election remains dynamic and subject to change. As voters await the final decision on Harris’ running mate, the impact of these candidates’ positions and ideologies on the campaign trail will continue to shape the narrative of the upcoming election cycle.