A New Republic opinion piece published Friday outlined Sen. Kamala Harris's (D., Calif.) "deeply troubling record," but argued the left should be ready to accept a flawed politician for the Democratic Party's 2020 presidential candidate.
Many have speculated that Harris could be the Democrats' presidential candidate, but leftist progressives have been quick to point to her spotty record before she became a senator. The New Republic's Sarah Jones wrote an op-ed noting the "legitimate points" that concern progressives, but said these were "grounds for criticism, not dismissal."
Jones pointed out that while Harris was district attorney, she implemented a law that penalized the parents of truant children with a fine of up to $2,000 and a year in jail. The op-ed also noted that as attorney general, Harris fought against a transgender prisoner attempting to access the health care necessary for transitioning.
The piece also accused Harris of having a poor past in prosecuting financial crimes, including her "decision to refrain from going after OneWest Bank for allegedly breaking foreclosure laws."
But Jones suggested leftists should be flexible with potential Democratic candidates like Harris who have a spotty record if they hope to win the presidential election. Jones said because the left has always prided itself on policy over personality, it should have no qualms with a candidate with a worrisome past who "checks the necessary boxes and pledges to do the necessary work."
The op-ed noted Harris is for universal health care, a $15 minimum wage, and free college tuition.