Rep. Karen Bass (D-Calif.) is weighing in on former White House Press Secretary Ari Fleischer’s remarks raising questions about Black voter enthusiasm with Sen. Kamala Harris (D-Calif.) now on the Democratic ticket.
During an interview on MSNBC’s “The Reidout,” host Joy Reid played a clip of Fleischer’s remarks for the California lawmaker and asked whether or not Bass agreed or disagreed with his assertion.
Although former White House Press Secretary Ari Fleischer expressed concern about Black American voter enthusiasm as a result of Biden selecting Harris, Bass weighed in with the reaction in her circle.
She quickly defended Harris as she outlined what the former California attorney general brings to the table for people of color.
“People were thrilled,” Bass said. “And so I don’t think he knows a darn thing about Black folks so he shouldn’t even be commenting at all.”
She continued, “It’s not just Black folks. Its Black folks, it’s women, it’s Asians, it’s Latinos. I think that this is just exciting all the way around.”
See Bass’ remarks below:
Bass also shared her reaction to Harris’ first campaign appearance with presumptive Democratic presidential nominee Joe Biden.
“And I think that their roll-out today when they walked across that stage, it was electric,” she said, adding, “I think they are both going to energize the vote. I think Sen. Harris in particular.”
When asked if she may possibly fill Harris’ Senate seat if she advances to the White House, Bass noted that she only has one goal until Election Day.
“You know what, Joy, for the next 83 days I have one thing on my mind. After that, we’ll see. I’ll keep all my options open,” Bass said.
Bass’ remarks came shortly after Biden and Harris’ first public appearance together. With just 82 days left until the November 3 election, the two will likely be making many more appearances together in the coming weeks.