Republicans Warn Against Racist, Sexist Attacks on Kamala Harris

Republican leaders are cautioning party members to avoid racist and sexist attacks on Vice President Kamala Harris, focusing instead on policy critiques, as they brace for her potential run for the presidency. The warnings come amidst efforts to link Harris to unpopular Biden administration policies and amid concerns about alienating key voter groups.

Republican leaders are urging party members to avoid overtly racist and sexist attacks on Vice President Kamala Harris, pivoting to policy criticisms instead. This comes as the GOP, including former President Donald Trump's campaign, adjusts to the reality of a potential Harris candidacy less than four months before Election Day.

At a closed-door meeting, National Republican Congressional Committee chairman Richard Hudson, R-N.C., emphasized criticising Harris for her policies, not her persona. House Speaker Mike Johnson echoed this sentiment, highlighting that the election should focus on policies, not personalities. Both warned against attacks based on her ethnicity or gender.

The GOP's caution stems from the new risks of opposing a potential first female, first Black woman, and first person of South Asian descent to potentially win the White House. Trump's history of racist and misogynistic remarks could alienate key swing voter groups, such as suburban women and voters of color.

(With inputs from agencies.)