This Wednesday, November 5, Americans are asked to choose who will be the next president of the United States. As we enter the home stretch, Kamala Harris refuses to discuss potential appointments for a future government.
As the elections approach, Kamala Harris increases her travels and meetings, but refuses to discuss potential appointments for a future government, out of caution and superstition.
A superstitious, “no cart before the horse” approach
In the home stretch of the American presidential campaign, Kamala Harris is entirely focused on her mission: winning against Donald Trump. Sources close to the vice president say she has made it clear to her advisers that she does not want to discuss future cabinet members. Harris, who once described herself as “a little superstitious“, thinks it is risky to plan nominations before being assured of victory.”She prefers to focus on what is in front of her and avoid projecting herself too far ahead.“, explains one of his relatives.
Discreet preparations, but in place
Unlike previous campaigns, no information has leaked about possible members of the Harris administration. The vice-president’s transition committee, however, has discreetly organized itself to manage the logistical aspects in the event of victory. According to a transition spokesperson, “the top priority is the campaign, but the necessary infrastructure will be ready for the post-election period“. Offices are already set up in Washington, while Trump’s team works between Manhattan and the Willard Hotel.
Post-election uncertainty scenarios
With scenarios of uncertainty surrounding the results, the transition is also preparing for a possible lack of a clear majority after election day. In this eventuality, Harris and Trump could receive briefings from the Biden administration, under a measure adopted in 2022 to ensure more structured monitoring of the transition period.
Strategic choices in the event of victory
A victory for Kamala Harris would mark the first transition between two presidents of the same party since Ronald Reagan and George HW Bush in 1989. This raises the question of the continuity of the teams in place, particularly if the Senate comes under Republican control. Such a context could push Harris to keep some members of Biden’s cabinet in order to avoid prolonged confirmation conflicts in the Senate.
Those close to Harris say she has already considered nominations that could create consensus, including possibly including a Republican in her cabinet, although no names have been mentioned publicly. Harris nevertheless appears to be considering appointing her own advisers to key positions in the White House, and renewing part of the cabinet.
A team ready for a quick start
Yohannes Abraham, a former ambassador to the Association of Southeast Asian Nations, is currently leading preparations for the transition, alongside longtime advisers such as Josh Hsu and Dana Remus. If Harris wins the election, this team should quickly form agency review panels, appoint the first White House advisers, and assemble a cabinet. A rapid but effective transition appears to be the primary goal of Harris’ team in leading the incoming administration.
American elections 2024 presidential election United States Kamala Harris
