Former Hawaii congresswoman Tulsi Gabbard, known for her memorable debate exchange with Kamala Harris in 2019, has been recruited by former President Trump to assist in his debate preparation for the upcoming 2024 election.
Gabbard, who ran for president in the 2020 Democratic primary, recently participated in a practice session with Trump at his private club, Mar-a-Lago. Trump's campaign team confirmed Gabbard's involvement in debate prep, highlighting her strong performance in the 2020 debates.
In the viral 2019 exchange, Gabbard criticized Harris for her record as a prosecutor, specifically targeting her approach to marijuana violations and criminal justice reform. Gabbard's critique of Harris's policies has resonated with conservatives, leading to her departure from the Democratic Party to become an independent.
Trump's National Press Secretary praised Gabbard's debating skills and policy insights, emphasizing her ability to challenge opponents effectively. Gabbard's past confrontation with Harris underscored her willingness to hold candidates accountable for their actions and policy positions.
During the 2019 debate, Gabbard accused Harris of keeping individuals in prison for cheap labor and perpetuating a cash bail system that disproportionately affected low-income individuals. Harris defended her record by citing her efforts to reform the criminal justice system in California and her support for marijuana legalization.
Gabbard's recent characterization of Harris as an 'empty suit' reflects ongoing concerns about Harris's consistency and transparency in communicating her policy stances. Gabbard suggested that Harris's campaign is attempting to reshape her image to align with voter preferences, rather than addressing her past actions.
As the debate preparations for the 2024 election unfold, Gabbard's involvement signals a strategic move by Trump to leverage her debating prowess and policy expertise. The dynamic between Gabbard and Harris serves as a reminder of the importance of accountability and transparency in political discourse.