Harris distances herself from Biden following 'garbage' comment
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US media reports indicate that Harris' campaign has opted to keep Biden at a distance, even politely declining his offers for additional joint appearances.
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US President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris listen during an event in the East Room of the White House in Washington, Thursday, September 26, 2024, on gun violence in the United States. (AP)
US reports published on Wednesday suggest that Vice President Kamala Harris has minimized joint campaign appearances with President Joe Biden in the final days of her election push, especially following his controversial comment that seemed to describe Trump supporters as "garbage."
The remarks, which Biden later tried to clarify, have reignited concerns that the outgoing president's public missteps may undermine Harris' election chances, especially as she seeks to project a unifying message.
Since bowing out of the White House race in July, the 81-year-old Biden has supported Harris on the campaign trail, promoting his administration's achievements.
However, US media reports indicate that Harris' campaign has opted to keep Biden at a distance, even politely declining his offers for additional joint appearances.
The 'garbage' controversy
Biden's "garbage" comment came after a Trump rally speaker referred to Puerto Rico as a "floating island of garbage."
"The only garbage I see floating out there is his supporters," Biden said Tuesday in reference to Trump supporters.
Biden's team later claimed he intended to reference "supporters," pointing to comedian Tony Hinchcliffe, rather than broad Trump support.
Still, Republicans seized on the comment, likening it to Hillary Clinton's infamous "deplorables" remark in 2016, which some believe hurt her with Trump-leaning voters.
Prominent political analyst Larry Sabato weighed in, advising that Harris limit her appearances with Biden, citing his unpopularity and recent perceived missteps.
"Harris should obviously avoid many joint appearances with Biden until after the election is over," Larry said. "Biden is quite unpopular and he's also rusty and off his game."
The fallout from Biden's remarks overshadowed Harris' recent address at the White House, where she called for unity and a fresh start, drawing a stark contrast with Biden's tone.
