Can Kamala Get Away From Biden’s Afghan Withdrawal?

The chaotic withdrawal of U.S. troops from Afghanistan has left a lasting mark on President Joe Biden’s legacy, and it seems the fallout from this debacle could also impact Vice President Kamala Harris’ presidential aspirations. As Biden’s approval ratings plummeted in the wake of the Afghanistan pullout, questions about the competence of his administration emerged, and Harris could be facing a similar challenge.

Since becoming the Democratic frontrunner, Harris has worked to distance herself from the administration’s missteps while highlighting its successes. She has portrayed herself as a key figure in the administration’s achievements but has been “unburdened” by its failures. A recent survey from Blueprint 2024, a Democratic polling firm, revealed that many voters do not hold Harris responsible for the troop withdrawal, with nearly 70% not attributing the Afghanistan debacle to her.

However, Republicans are determined to shift this narrative. Former President Donald Trump has relentlessly tied Harris to the botched withdrawal, emphasizing her role in the decision-making process. Trump has repeatedly pointed out that Harris was present during the critical discussions and even described the decision to withdraw as “courageous,” a characterization he and other GOP leaders are using to question her judgment.

Trump’s rhetoric has included claims that the Afghanistan withdrawal has had far-reaching negative consequences, such as emboldening adversaries like Russia and Iran. At a recent rally, Trump suggested that the withdrawal was a catalyst for global instability, further linking Harris to the administration’s perceived failures.

In response, Harris’ campaign has attempted to deflect blame by highlighting that the Trump administration also had plans to exit Afghanistan, though those plans did not materialize during his tenure. The Biden team has argued that the current administration’s foreign policy successes, including strengthened alliances and international partnerships, should overshadow the Afghanistan withdrawal.

Despite these efforts, questions about competence remain. Biden’s presidency has faced significant challenges beyond Afghanistan, including inflation and immigration issues. Analysts suggest that while Biden’s presidency has been marred by controversies, it’s unclear whether the Afghanistan issue will resonate strongly with voters in the upcoming election.

Republican strategist Alex Patton acknowledges that while the Afghanistan issue might not be the most potent attack line, it still provides an opportunity for Republicans to question Harris’ leadership capabilities. The broader theme of competence—how well a leader manages crises—could play a crucial role in the upcoming election.

As the 2024 election approaches, the focus may shift from past failures to future prospects. Harris has framed her campaign around a vision for America’s future, attempting to steer the conversation away from past controversies. However, the shadow of Afghanistan and questions about her role in the withdrawal may continue to influence voter perceptions as the campaign unfolds.