In a recent poll, Vice President Kamala Harris’s approval rating was revealed to be the worst in NBC News polling history, causing concern among Democrats.
This comes in spite of the White House’s campaign to improve her image and highlight her achievements. The poll showed a net approval rating disparity of 17%, with 49% of Americans expressing disapproval of her job performance, while only 32% voiced approval.
The poll also highlighted that other vice presidents, including Dick Cheney with a net positive 23% rating, Al Gore with a net positive 15%, and even Joe Biden with a net positive 1% rating, fared far better. Only Mike Pence held a negative net rating at 4%, but that is considerably less than Harris’s negative rating.
Harris’s tenure has been beleaguered with allegations of incompetency and lack of readiness, coupled with high staff turnover. The vice president’s repeated use of certain phrases in her speeches has also been a source of ridicule. However, some have come to her defense, attributing the criticism to racism and sexism.
Despite this, another poll in August found that a mere 43% of Americans consider Harris qualified to assume the duties of the Presidency, should the need arise. Yet, Jeff Zients, White House Chief of Staff, conveyed a contrasting perspective to Axios, stating that Americans are showing “enthusiasm and energy” for what Harris is doing. He concluded by stating, “We just need to make sure that we do a good job of exposing” her to the American public.
Despite the White House’s efforts to improve Vice President Kamala Harris’s image, her approval ratings have hit a record low, leaving many questioning her capabilities and effectiveness.