George Clooney Calls Biden-Harris Ticket a Mistake Ahead of 2024 Election

Hollywood actor and outspoken Democrat George Clooney recently expressed his belief that it was a “mistake” to have Kamala Harris replace Joe Biden as the Democratic nominee for the upcoming 2024 US presidential election. In a candid interview with CBS News Sunday Morning, Clooney reflected on the party’s strategy, emphasizing the need for a robust primary process to energize voters.

Clooney, 64, previously articulated his concerns in a New York Times opinion piece, where he urged Biden to reconsider his candidacy. He argued that the party should select a new nominee at the convention scheduled for August 2024. While acknowledging that such a shift would be “messy,” he asserted that it could revitalize enthusiasm among party supporters.

In discussing Harris’s role in the campaign, Clooney remarked, “The mistake with it being Kamala is that she had to run against her own record, and it’s very hard to do if the point of running is to say, ‘I’m not that person’.” He noted the challenges she faces, stating, “It’s hard to do. And so she was given a very tough task. I think it was a mistake, quite honestly.”

The actor’s views come in the wake of Biden’s announcement in July 2024 to withdraw from the race, following mounting pressure and a difficult debate with Republican candidate Donald Trump. Clooney’s comments have drawn attention, particularly from Biden’s son, Hunter Biden, who accused him of exaggerating the former president’s vulnerabilities. In response, Clooney stated, “I could spend a lot of time debunking many of the things he said, because many things he said were just outright lies.”

Concerns Over the State of Democracy

Clooney’s reflections extend beyond electoral strategies. He expressed deep concerns about the current state of democracy in the United States, describing a “real attack on all the basic institutions” that uphold democratic values. He conveyed sadness over these developments, stating, “I want our government to reflect us at our best and to step in when needed.”

During his interview, Clooney drew parallels between the current political climate and historical moments of turmoil. He recalled the tumultuous year of 1968, which saw widespread unrest and significant tragedies, including the assassinations of civil rights leader Martin Luther King Jr. and Senator Bobby Kennedy. “We’ve been in tricky situations. We’ve had a civil war. We’ll get through it, but I am saddened by it,” he remarked, emphasizing the importance of protecting the institutions that hold truth to power.

Clooney’s statements resonate amid a backdrop of political polarization and growing discontent among voters. His call for a new direction within the Democratic Party reflects a broader discussion about leadership, representation, and the future of American politics. As the 2024 election approaches, the implications of his words may influence not only party dynamics but also the general electorate’s engagement.

In a time when the political landscape is in flux, Clooney’s candid critique serves as a reminder of the challenges ahead and the need for unity within the party to ensure a successful campaign.