Biden’s Talking Points Note on Kamala Harris: ‘Do Not Hold Grudges’

Democratic presidential candidate Joe Biden on Tuesday was photographed holding handwritten notes with Sen. Kamala Harris (D-CA) name featured along with a set of cryptic bullet points about her, fueling speculation that the California Senator is the leading contender to be his running mate.

During a rare news conference after unveiling the fourth installment of his “Build Back Better” economic plan, Biden held a note pad filled with notes that were captured by an Associated Press photographer. Harris’ name was scribbled at the top and under her name featured five talking points.

“Do not hold grudges,” “Campaigned with me and Jill,” “Talented,” “Great help to campaign,” and “Great respect for her.”

The prepped notes suggested that Biden was anticipating a question regarding his relationship with Harris following a recent Politico report that former Sen. Chris Dodd is critical of a Biden-Harris ticket. Dodd, who co-chairs Biden’s vice presidential vetting committee is reported to have concerns about Harris having “no remorse” when he asked her about her ambush on Biden during the democratic debate last year regarding his past work with segregationist senators on opposing school desegregation busing.

“Vice President Biden, I do not believe you are a racist,” Harris said during the June 2019 Democratic primary debate. “But I also believe and it’s personal — it was actually hurtful to hear you talk about the reputations of two United States senators who built their reputations and career on the segregation of race in this country. There was a little girl in California who was a part of the second class to integrate her public schools, and she was bused to school every day. And that little girl was me.”

The relationship between the two Democratic rivals improved following Harris dropping her bid before the Iowa caucuses and endorsing Biden in March. Harris headlined a high-donor virtual fundraiser in June, raising $3.5 million and has been actively campaigning in various virtual events over the last few weeks.

Biden did not field any questions specifically about Harris and was only asked one question about the timing of his decision on his vice presidential pick. The former Vice President told reporters that he will choose his running mate “the first week in August.”

Other talking points including the headline “Department of Justice Reform”, in reference to Attorney General Bill Barr testifying in the House Judiciary Committee that was taking place at the same time during his campaign event. The notes didn’t mention Barr name, but Biden wrote “The people’s lawyer” and “Not the president lawyer.” The list also had the headline “Last 100 Days” with bullet points including “Offering clearest contrast,” “Tell the truth,” “Listen to the scientists,” “Take responsibility,” “Restore soul,” “Rebuild MC” (the middle class) and “Unite country.”