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Don Kusler is the national director of Americans for Democratic Action. He wrote this for InsideSources.com.
Voting is already underway in many places nationwide, and Election Day is only weeks away. While many people have decided whether they are voting for one candidate or perhaps just against another, some are still deciding whether they will vote.
No matter where you are, I want to share why voting for Vice President Kamala Harris is a great choice.
The overriding reason to vote for Harris is to continue restoring normalcy and protecting democracy. However, even if you put those important goals aside, Harris is clearly the best and most qualified choice.
Harris is knowledgeable. Despite the right-wing punditry questioning the depth of her policy agenda and expertise, Harris has repeatedly delved deep into current policy debates and the specifics of her policy proposals. Whether on the debate stage, at campaign rallies or in interviews, Harris shows the policy know-how necessary to be president.
She is accomplished. Having served the public in various roles for decades, Harris has helped pave the way for justice by prosecuting criminal activity as a district attorney and attorney general, ranging from violent crime to prescription drug price gouging.
As a senator, she sponsored legislation and championed the cause for women’s rights, workers’ rights and mental health. She artfully challenged unqualified presidential nominees. Even early in her Senate career, Harris used her expertise and passion to make a difference in an evenly divided chamber.
As vice president, Harris made numerous White House working groups on maternal health, reproductive rights and gun violence prevention topics.
Harris is also mindful. She focuses her work with others in mind. The primary job of being president is to always be thinking of others. Her compassionate approach to governing is a considerable and vital advantage she has over her opponent.
Harris is also accessible. Many Americans can find her life’s experience relatable. That familiarity makes for a natural companion to her compassion and mindfulness. This includes having what many call good “vibes.” That positive and approachable personality opens doors, hearts and minds. The next president will need this to move the nation forward.
The vice president is also lawful. It is crucial to have a president who knows the law and faithfully follows it. We have not always needed to make what seems like a reasonably basic distinction, but sadly, now we do. Her experience as a district attorney and as the attorney general of California will help guide Harris in serving everyone and protecting our nation’s laws.
Last, Kamala Harris is authentic. The American people do not need to wonder who she is, her motivations or what she will do to lead. She shows us that with her attributes and experiences.
Of course, we can describe Harris’s qualifying attributes in many ways: smart, kind, honest, passionate, experienced, approachable, professional and even presidential.
So, what should we be looking for in a president?
Someone who is Knowledgeable, Accomplished, Mindful, Accessible, Lawful and Authentic. In short, KAMALA.
Election notice: The BDN will stop accepting letters and columns related to the Nov. 5 election on Wednesday, Oct. 30. Not all submissions can be published.
