On Thursday’s broadcast of Andrea Mitchell Reports, MSNBC's Andrea Mitchell highlighted Vice President Kamala Harris' involvement in the federal response to Hurricane Milton, a Category 5 storm currently devastating parts of Florida. Harris, the 2024 Democratic presidential candidate, made headlines for her decision to engage in the crisis response, despite the ongoing pressures of her campaign.
Mitchell pointed out that Harris “especially wanted to be part of the crisis response,” stressing that her actions were a balancing act between her duties as vice president and the limited time remaining before Election Day. Harris joined a Situation Room briefing virtually while participating in campaign events across the country, including a Univision town hall held in Las Vegas.
🚨BREAKING: Univision accidentally broadcast proof that Comrade Kamala used a teleprompter at her town hall 🤣🤣🤣 pic.twitter.com/d8yjUeJB1H
— AJ Huber (@Huberton) October 11, 2024
The vice president’s decision to emphasize her role in hurricane relief drew criticism from conservative commentators, many of whom questioned her level of actual involvement. Critics on social media noted that Harris has been accused of appearing more interested in public relations than directly helping those affected by natural disasters. Some suggested that she was using her position in the crisis response for political gain as her campaign heats up.
This isn't the first time Harris has faced scrutiny for her response to natural disasters. During previous storms, including Hurricane Helene, she was also accused of prioritizing media appearances over hands-on involvement in relief efforts. These criticisms resurfaced amid her response to Hurricane Milton, with detractors accusing her of doing little more than attending briefings remotely while staying on the campaign trail.
It turns out the day Kamala was bitching at DeSantis for not taking her phone call as a hurricane was barreling towards Florida, even though she is not in the chain of command on hurricane response, was the same day that she was doing a photoshoot with Vogue. pic.twitter.com/YMrQhZrnZN
— Greg Price (@greg_price11) October 11, 2024
MSNBC’s Peter Alexander, however, defended Harris’ participation, noting that vice presidents often continue their duties while campaigning. He stated that Harris could balance her responsibilities effectively, even while appearing at campaign events. Alexander emphasized that her participation in crisis briefings, albeit virtual, demonstrated her commitment to both the campaign and her vice-presidential duties.
The storm itself is the largest and most destructive hurricane of the year, leaving widespread damage and casualties across Florida. Both President Joe Biden and Vice President Harris have been involved in coordinating federal aid, with Harris’ office playing a visible role in the response. FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell has been central to briefing the administration, and Harris’ virtual participation ensured her continued involvement in the relief efforts.
While Harris’ actions may resonate with her supporters, the optics of her balancing campaign stops and crisis management have fueled debate. Critics argue that her attempts to juggle both roles may detract from the seriousness of the storm's impact, especially as Hurricane Milton continues to wreak havoc in the region.
As Election Day approaches, Harris is navigating heightened scrutiny over every move she makes, particularly in swing states like Florida, which could be critical to the outcome of the 2024 election. This hurricane, along with her actions in its aftermath, could influence voter perception as she tries to appeal to undecided voters in the face of a tough battle with former President Donald Trump.
