Foreign Policy Position of Kamala Harris

A Continuation of Biden Policies with Pragmatism and Humanitarian Focus

Vice President Kamala Harris is positioning herself as the presumptive Democratic presidential nominee, emphasizing her views on critical foreign policy issues amid increasing global tensions. Her stance reflects a continuation of President Biden’s policies, particularly regarding Israel, Ukraine, migration, and relations with China and Africa.

However, we should emphasize that the competition with China will still be at the forefront of US policy, see the FT article. In short, she notes that the US will not retreat into isolationism.

Key Points:

• Support for Israel: Harris aligns with Biden’s support for Israel in the Gaza conflict while acknowledging the humanitarian crisis.
• Ukraine War: She strongly supports Ukraine against Russian aggression and emphasizes accountability for Russia’s actions.
• Migration Policies: Harris addresses the root causes of migration and acknowledges challenges at the southern border while advocating for bipartisan solutions.
• China Relations: She highlights the threat posed by China, particularly in relation to Taiwan and maritime disputes in the South China Sea.
• Africa Engagement: Harris aims to reshape U.S.-Africa relations, focusing on innovation and internet access, while addressing human rights issues.

Domestic Implications:

Harris’s foreign policy positions are not only critical for international relations but also have significant implications domestically as she prepares for a potential campaign. By focusing on these key issues, she aims to galvanize support from various voter demographics, particularly those who prioritize global stability and humanitarian concerns.

Campaign Strategy:

• Highlighting Experience: As Vice President, Harris plans to leverage her experience in the Biden administration, showcasing successful diplomatic efforts and policy implementations that align with her current stance.
• Building Alliances: She is likely to strengthen connections with key constituencies, including progressive activists and moderate voters, by addressing their concerns regarding national security and humanitarian crises.
• Engaging Young Voters: Harris aims to resonate with younger voters who are increasingly concerned about global issues such as climate change and social justice, framing her foreign policy as interconnected with domestic priorities.

Challenges Ahead:

Despite her strong positioning, Harris faces challenges within the party, including navigating the diverse views among Democrats on foreign policy. Critics may question the effectiveness of current strategies, particularly in light of ongoing conflicts and humanitarian issues. Harris will need to articulate a clear vision that balances assertiveness with diplomacy to unite her party and appeal to the broader electorate.

As she steps into the spotlight of a potential presidential run, Kamala Harris’s focus on foreign policy highlights her commitment to a proactive and compassionate approach to governance. By addressing pressing global issues while fostering unity at home, she seeks to carve out a unique identity that distinguishes her from potential rivals within the Democratic Party. As the political landscape evolves, her ability to adapt and respond to emerging challenges will be crucial in her quest for the presidency.

A Pragmatist Turn in Foreign Policy

Expect a shift in U.S. foreign policy under Vice President Kamala Harris and her advisors (Philip Gordon in particular), moving away from the traditional hegemonic approach of American exceptionalism towards a more pragmatic stance. This new perspective acknowledges past intervention failures (Iraq, Afghanistan, Libya etc.) and seeks to maintain global openness rather than pursuing aggressive regime change. It reflects a bipartisan recognition that the U.S. can no longer act as the sole global enforcer and emphasizes cooperation on critical global issues.

Key Points:

• Shift in Foreign Policy: Harris and her advisors advocate for a more humble U.S. role globally, moving away from the “messianic” approach of previous administrations.
• Critique of Interventionism: The failures of past U.S. interventions, particularly in the Middle East, have led to calls for a reevaluation of America’s global strategy.
• Focus on Global Openness: The new policy aims to ensure an “accessible global commons” and prioritize cooperation over ideological crusades.
• Domestic Considerations: Political polarization and a lack of understanding of international systems complicate the U.S.’s ability to manage its global role.
• Bipartisan Consensus: There is a growing bipartisan agreement on the need for a more restrained foreign policy approach, moving away from traditional interventionist strategies.

This shift in policy reflects a broader recognition that the era of unchallenged American dominance is over. The complexities of global interdependence require a nuanced approach, one that appreciates the diverse aspirations and grievances of other nations. Harris’s team emphasizes the importance of diplomacy and multilateral engagement as essential tools for addressing global challenges such as climate change, pandemics, and security threats.

Implications for U.S. Foreign Relations:

1. Emphasis on Diplomacy: The new strategy encourages engagement with allies and even adversaries through dialogue and negotiation rather than coercion, fostering a more collaborative international environment.
2. Prioritizing Global Issues: The administration aims to tackle pressing global issues like climate change and public health, recognizing that these challenges transcend borders and require collective action.
3. Realignment of Alliances: There may be a reevaluation of traditional alliances, focusing on partnerships that align with shared interests rather than historical loyalties.
4. Addressing Internal Divisions: The administration acknowledges the need to unite domestic political factions around a coherent foreign policy, which is crucial for maintaining credibility on the world stage.
5. Learning from History: By reflecting on past interventions, there is an understanding that foreign policy must be informed by historical context and the lessons learned from previous mistakes. This especially applies to regime change, see Iraq, Afghanistan, Libya etc, as noted earlier.

As this new paradigm unfolds, it will be critical for the Biden administration to communicate these changes effectively to both domestic audiences and international partners. Building trust and demonstrating commitment to this more restrained approach will be essential in redefining America’s role in a rapidly changing world.

Ultimately, the success of this policy shift will depend on the administration’s ability to navigate the complexities of global politics while maintaining a coherent vision that resonates with both American values and the realities of international relations.