Sanders calls Harris’ shifts “pragmatic,” still considers her “progressive”

Sen. Bernie Sanders, I-Vt., expressed his views on Vice President Kamala Harris’ recent policy adjustments, describing them as “pragmatic” and aligning with her goal to win the upcoming election. Sanders emphasized that while Harris has softened her stance on issues such as fracking and Medicare for All, he still regards her as “progressive.”

In a recent statement, Sanders noted that Harris’ path to victory could be bolstered by her focus on progressive issues, including raising the minimum wage, increasing taxes on the wealthy, and enhancing Social Security benefits. Sanders believes that a campaign centered on these issues could lead to a substantial victory for Harris.

Harris, who has recently shifted her positions on various policies, defended these changes in an ABC News interview, asserting that “the most important and most significant aspect of my policy perspective and decisions is my values have not changed.” Her adjusted positions include supporting a 28% tax rate on long-term capital gains for high-income earners and backing a 25% minimum tax on total income, including unrealized gains.

Sanders, who has not yet endorsed Harris, mentioned that while he supports many of her progressive positions, he would advocate for “higher than that” tax rates than those proposed by the Vice President. He also acknowledged that while Harris and President Joe Biden have achieved notable progressive successes, there is still “much more to be done.”

Despite the differences in their policy perspectives, Sanders praised Harris for her commitment to progressive issues, including making the child tax credit permanent, expanding affordable housing, and boosting unions. Sanders concluded by reaffirming his view that Harris remains “progressive,” despite not fully aligning with his positions.