To the editor: It would be naïve to believe that neither sexism nor racism played a role in Vice President Kamala Harris' defeat last month. But talking about her as an incumbent leader of the Democratic Party or a potential candidate for other office requires Democrats to be clear-headed: first, about the party's failings, and second, about Harris's shortcomings. (“For many black women, Kamala Harris’ loss felt like a betrayal. What now?” column, Dec. 18)
Following what has been its path at least since Bill Clinton, the Democratic Party continues to love humanity, but it doesn't do so well with many people. Now it is even losing the ethnic minorities it took for granted.
As for Harris's shortcomings, the rapid succession of changing themes in the campaign (first it was “joy” (which was really just relief), then “it's all about abortion” and finally “Donald Trump is a fascist”) showed that she was There is no better candidate in 2024 than when she was the first to leave the campaign in 2019. She should head into private life.
Democrats must do much more than simply work on their “message.” The messages are just the television jingle, the label on the dog food can.
In other words, the election was not a “betrayal,” either of women or of black voters in general. While it is not clear that anyone could have defeated Trump under the circumstances in 2024, the result should not be dismissed as a one-off.
David Van Iderstine, Los Angeles
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To the editor: Yes, what Teja Smith and other Black women leaders feel is genuine. But we must remember that Harris came within 1.5 percentage points of winning the popular vote, and that was because of people like Smith who have led us with understanding, morality, and kindness.
I am a 78 year old white woman following suit. My husband and I donated money to the campaign, worked at phone banks, and went door to door. When this election was lost, we felt that the arch of justice had collapsed at our feet.
But my friends reminded me that we must continue the fight, and perhaps the arc is longer than we assume.
On November 11 we attended a family reunion. We all worked hard for this election and were heartbroken. We finally decided that there are ways to achieve or work towards our goals within our communities.
Our nation needs to reach the end of the journey. To people like Smith I say: please don't give up your leadership, because we need you.
Cheryl Younger, Los Angeles
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To the editor: It's not that Americans of any race won't vote for a black woman for president. It's just that they didn't want the woman who was actually running.
Most wanted someone nominated, not anointed. They wanted someone who would answer a question in less than 500 words.
Harris' entire campaign message could be summed up as: “If you liked President Biden, you'll love me.” Most people didn't like either one.
John Weber, Pomona
