Rep. Dean Phillips (D-MN) issued an apology for emphasizing critiques of Vice President Kamala Harris in the midst of his campaign against her and President Joe Biden for the 2024 Democratic presidential nomination.
According to the Washington Examiner, on social media, Phillips acknowledged his error, stating, “In the Atlantic, I shared kind words about Harris because that’s been my personal experience and I respect her. I shouldn’t have referenced other people’s opinions. I own that and apologize to her and everyone who’s been affected by similar circumstances.”
Phillips, who recently launched a less likely bid against Biden and Harris, revealed to the Atlantic that unnamed individuals had expressed concerns to him about Harris not being well-suited for the role of president’s No. 2. Given Biden’s age of 81, making him the oldest president, Phillips conveyed criticisms from others, stating, “She is not well prepared, doesn’t have the right disposition and the right competencies to execute that office.”
However, Phillips clarified that he personally hadn’t observed these deficiencies in Harris and had positive interactions with her. When questioned about why he echoed criticisms if that wasn’t his impression, he explained, “I did not articulate that distinctly. That was asked of me. Others have said that to the reporter in question.”
Phillips stressed that his intention was to convey that, despite his positive experiences with Harris, the focus should be on preserving the principles of democracy. His campaign argues that, while Biden is a “good person,” polling indicates a reluctance for his return to the presidency. Phillips, a millionaire and former owner of Talenti, initiated his campaign after reaching out to potential primary challengers who declined.
Despite not contacting Harris as a potential challenger, Phillips encouraged her to run, stating, “The water [is] warm. We live in democracy.”