In an interview with the independent Radio WNET, American studies expert Professor Zbigniew Lewicki from the Wyszyński University (UKSW) in Warsaw discussed the themes likely to dominate the U.S. presidential campaign.
On Sunday, Joe Biden announced he would not seek another term, and the Democratic Party is expected to replace him with Kamala Harris.
Professor Lewicki identified a clash of two visions of America as central to the election. Republicans advocate for a conservative America that respects its values and history and aims to rebuild its significance. In contrast, the Democratic Party’s America denies its own values, with equality issues leading to significant problems. “Race and gender are prioritized over competence, which will lead to further internal decline,” said Lewicki.
He noted that a Republican return could pose challenges for Europe, but emphasized that Europe is strong and wealthy enough to care for its own security without relying on the United States.
“It will be a period of maturation for Europe, and for the U.S., it’s high time to focus on competence over gender or race,” Lewicki stated.
Commenting on the Democratic Party’s situation and Harris’s likely candidacy, Lewicki suggested that the party’s need for a quick resolution to its crisis and unity justified choosing Harris. “They wanted to avoid a convention fight, which could have revealed many interesting aspects about the party and American politics,” the expert said.
However, Lewicki criticized Harris’ lack of competence and her inability to handle political tasks, citing her failure to address the southern border crisis. “She did absolutely nothing. She didn’t even go to the border. She responded to journalists’ questions with a nervous laugh, which is characteristic of her. European politicians who have met with her rightly say that she represents nothing,” said the American studies expert.
Despite this, Harris is not without electoral chances. “There are staunch voters for both parties who will support their candidates regardless of anything. Over 40 percent of voters are committed to one side. The key is to expand the base and win over undecided voters,” Lewicki explained, doubting Harris’ potential success in this regard.
He added that the left-liberal media’s eight-year campaign against Donald Trump has had an impact, and for those fearing his return to power, Harris might be the only hope. “But it’s hard to find non-Democratic voters who believe she would make a good president,” Lewicki concluded.
