Vice President Kamala Harris Clarifies Shifts in Policy Stances in Exclusive CNN Interview

In an exclusive interview with CNN's Dana Bash, Vice President Kamala Harris provided detailed explanations for her evolving positions on key issues such as fracking and immigration. Harris emphasized that her core values remain unchanged, but her perspective has broadened during her tenure as vice president.

During the interview, Harris also revealed that she would appoint a Republican to her Cabinet if elected president, reviving a tradition not embraced by recent administrations. She described her reaction to President Joe Biden's decision to withdraw from the presidential race and addressed questions about her racial identity, dismissing Donald Trump's comments as a "tired playbook."

Harris and her running mate, Minnesota Governor Tim Walz, sat down for their first joint interview since becoming the Democratic presidential ticket. The interview offered a clearer insight into Harris's plans for the presidency, focusing on strengthening the economy and addressing climate change.

When asked about her day-one objectives, Harris reiterated her commitment to supporting and strengthening the middle class. She acknowledged the need to address scrutiny of her record and provide substance to her campaign, which has been energized by the newly competitive election.

Bash pressed Harris on her reversals on fracking and decriminalizing illegal border crossings. Harris explained that her values have not changed, but her experience and new information have led to shifts in her policy positions. She cited the Biden administration's Inflation Reduction Act as an example of her climate record and pointed to her time as California attorney general to illustrate her values on immigration.

Walz, who joined Harris in the interview, defended himself against accusations of misrepresenting his background and military service. He expressed enthusiasm for inspiring America and pushed back against Republican attacks directed at his family.

Harris also laid out her economic policy plan, focusing on bringing down costs for food, housing, and childcare. She acknowledged that more work needs to be done but highlighted the progress made during the Biden administration.

On foreign policy, Harris did not indicate any significant departures from Biden's policies, including arm sales to Israel. She voiced no regret in describing Biden as "extraordinarily strong" following his debate performance and recalled the moment Biden informed her of his decision to withdraw from the race.

Harris concluded the interview by acknowledging the historical significance of her candidacy but emphasized that she is running to be the best president for all Americans, regardless of race and gender.