Former VP Kamala Harris Denounces Broken US Political System After 2024 Loss

Kamala Harris, the former Vice President and 2024 presidential candidate, has publicly declared that the U.S. political system is broken and has decided not to pursue further elected office, including the California gubernatorial race, despite leading in polls. In her first post-election interview on The Late Show with Stephen Colbert, Harris criticized Congress for failing to defend democracy against President Donald Trump's policies, describing the capitulation of key defenders as unexpected and lamenting lawmakers' inaction on issues like attempts to cut the Department of Education. She expressed a commitment to engage with Americans through travel and conversation without the transactional nature of campaigning, emphasizing the importance of reminding people of their power despite the system's flaws. Harris conveyed disappointment that the democratic institutions she once believed strong enough to withstand challenges are currently insufficient to protect fundamental principles. Her appearance on Colbert's show drew mixed reactions, with some mocking both figures amid the recent announcement of the show's cancellation. Throughout her remarks, Harris underscored her belief in public servants and the need for active defense of democracy, while signaling a political pause rather than permanent withdrawal from public life.