Trump’s attempt to walk back racial comments falls flat in debate

Following a divisive presidential debate, former President Donald Trump attempted to retract remarks he had made earlier in which he questioned Vice President Kamala Harris’s race. His comments, which he had delivered at an event for Black journalists in Chicago towards the end of July, had provoked strong criticism. Trump’s remark that Harris had “suddenly” changed her race was met with criticism for being both racially inappropriate and divisive at the time.

Standing mere feet away from Harris during the debate, Trump made an attempt to backtrack on his contentious remarks, saying, “Whatever she wants to be is OK with me.” But closer examination seems to cast doubt on his retraction. Trump clarified when prompted by moderators, stating, “All I can say is that I read where she wasn’t Black, that she put out.” And after reading that she was Black, I will say that. That’s alright, too. I didn’t mind which one. She has the last say on that.

Trump’s initial comments had become a flashpoint for criticism, undermining his campaign’s efforts to appeal to a broader electorate, particularly among Black voters. His attempt to walk back the remarks was seen as insufficient and failed to quell the controversy.

Vice President Harris, who has both Black and South Asian heritage, used the debate platform to address the issue directly. She labeled Trump’s remarks a “tragedy” and condemned his divisive approach to race relations. “It is a tragedy that we have someone who wants to be president who has, consistently, over the course of his career, attempted to use race to divide the American people,” Harris stated.

She highlighted Trump’s previous controversial statements, including his comments about the Central Park Five and the birther conspiracy theory regarding former President Barack Obama.Harris emphasized her commitment to inclusivity and unity, contrasting her stance with Trump’s divisive rhetoric. “I think the American people want better than that,” she added.

Harris, who attended Howard University and has embraced her dual heritage throughout her career, has been a prominent figure in advocating for racial justice and equality. Her response to Trump’s remarks was a strong assertion of her identity and a call for a more respectful and united political discourse.