The Kamala Question with Tressie McMillan Cottom
Digest
The podcast begins with a discussion about Joe Biden's decision to not run for re-election, focusing on the potential for Kamala Harris to become the first female president of the United States. The hosts delve deeper into Biden's decision, discussing the unusual way it was announced and the potential implications for the country. They also discuss the role of the donor class in American politics and how it influenced Biden's decision. The hosts then discuss the significance of a Zoom call organized by black women in response to Biden's decision, highlighting the call's impact on the political landscape and the role of black women in supporting Kamala Harris. The podcast concludes with a playful discussion about potential running mates for Kamala Harris, considering various factors like race, gender, and political ideology. They debate the merits of different candidates and the potential impact of their choices on the election.
Outlines
![](https://s3.castbox.fm/webstatic/images/book.5d108c35.png)
Biden's Decision and its Implications
The podcast begins with a discussion about Joe Biden's decision to not run for re-election, focusing on the potential for Kamala Harris to become the first female president of the United States. The hosts delve deeper into Biden's decision, discussing the unusual way it was announced and the potential implications for the country. They also discuss the role of the donor class in American politics and how it influenced Biden's decision.
![](https://s3.castbox.fm/webstatic/images/book.5d108c35.png)
Black Women's Support for Kamala Harris
The hosts discuss the significance of a Zoom call organized by black women in response to Biden's decision, highlighting the call's impact on the political landscape and the role of black women in supporting Kamala Harris.
![](https://s3.castbox.fm/webstatic/images/book.5d108c35.png)
Speculating on Kamala Harris's Running Mate
The hosts engage in a playful discussion about potential running mates for Kamala Harris, considering various factors like race, gender, and political ideology. They debate the merits of different candidates and the potential impact of their choices on the election.
![](https://s3.castbox.fm/webstatic/images/book.5d108c35.png)
Biden's Legacy and the Future of American Politics
The hosts reflect on Biden's legacy and the implications of his decision for the future of American politics. They discuss the potential for a \"tragic\" ending to his political career and the challenges facing Kamala Harris as a potential presidential candidate.
Keywords
Kamala Harris
Kamala Harris is the current Vice President of the United States and the first woman and first person of color to hold the office. She is a former senator from California and a former attorney general of the state.
Joe Biden
Joe Biden is the 46th and current president of the United States. He served as vice president under Barack Obama from 2009 to 2017. Biden is a member of the Democratic Party and has a long history of public service.
Black Women
Black women are a significant demographic group in the United States. They have historically faced discrimination and oppression, but they have also been a powerful force for social change. Black women are increasingly active in politics and are making their voices heard on a variety of issues.
Donor Class
The donor class refers to wealthy individuals and organizations that contribute significant amounts of money to political campaigns. They have a significant influence on American politics, as their donations can help candidates win elections and shape policy.
Q&A
What were the main reasons behind Joe Biden's decision to not run for re-election?
Biden's decision was likely influenced by a combination of factors, including his age, the political climate, and the pressure from the donor class. He may have also felt that he had accomplished his goals as president and was ready to step aside.
How did black women respond to Biden's decision and the potential for Kamala Harris to become president?
Black women organized a Zoom call to express their support for Kamala Harris and to ensure that she would not be overlooked as a potential presidential candidate. The call highlighted the importance of black women's voices in American politics and their commitment to seeing a black woman in the White House.
What are the potential challenges facing Kamala Harris as a presidential candidate?
Harris faces a number of challenges, including the potential for sexism and racism, the need to overcome the perception that she is not qualified for the job, and the difficulty of winning over voters who are skeptical of her policies.
How does the donor class influence American politics?
The donor class has a significant influence on American politics, as their donations can help candidates win elections and shape policy. They often have a disproportionate amount of power compared to individual voters, which can lead to concerns about the fairness and transparency of the political system.
What are the potential implications of Biden's decision for the future of American politics?
Biden's decision could have a significant impact on the future of American politics. It could lead to a more competitive Democratic primary, as other candidates see an opportunity to run for president. It could also lead to a more polarized political landscape, as both parties try to appeal to their base voters.
Show Notes
Sociologist and NYT columnist Tressie McMillan Cottom joins Trevor, Christiana, and Josh as they unpack Biden dropping out, Kamala’s nomination, and where we’re at in this ever evolving (some might say devolving) political landscape.
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