In the CNN sit-down interview, Vice President Kamala Harris discussed her evolving policy positions on key issues such as fracking and immigration.
In response to former President Donald Trump's recent comments questioning her racial identity, Harris dismissed the remarks as part of a "same old, tired playbook" and quickly moved on to the next question.
Harris also addressed her past statements and the reasoning behind her changes in stance, emphasizing that while her approaches may have shifted, her core values remain constant.
“My values have not changed. So that is the reality of it. And four years of being vice president, I’ll tell you, one of the aspects, to your point, is traveling the country extensively,” she said.
“I believe it is important to build consensus, and it is important to find a common place of understanding of where we can actually solve problems.”
As a presidential candidate in 2019, Harris had expressed support for a fracking ban. However, her position moderated after joining Joe Biden's presidential campaign, and she voted to expand fracking leases as part of her role in the current administration.
Harris defended her climate record by pointing to the goals set by the United States for reducing emissions and her prosecutorial work against cross-border trafficking gangs during her tenure as California attorney general as evidence of her consistent values on environmental and immigration issues.
During the interview, Harris was questioned about her apparent policy reversals, particularly in the areas of fracking and decriminalizing illegal border crossings. She responded by underscoring her unchanged values and cited her experience as vice president in gaining a broader perspective on the nation's challenges.
Harris highlighted her commitment to environmental issues, referring to the Inflation Reduction Act's historic climate change investments as reflective of her dedication to reducing greenhouse gas emissions.
Further demonstrating her pledge to serve as a president for all Americans, Harris stated her intention to name a Republican to her Cabinet if elected, although she did not specify any candidates.