White House Condemns Racist and Sexist Attacks on Kamala Harris

The White House denounced rising racist and sexist attacks on Vice President Kamala Harris following her presumptive nomination as the Democratic presidential candidate. White House Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre called it 'disgusting,' and House Speaker Mike Johnson urged Republicans to criticize Harris on policy grounds instead of identity.

The White House on Thursday condemned the increasing sexist and racist attacks on Vice President Kamala Harris, which have intensified since she became the presumptive Democratic presidential nominee.

"It's desperate and disgusting. It's a dog whistle. We must remember she is the Vice President of the United States and deserves respect. She has been doing this job with the president for nearly four years," said White House Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre at her daily news conference.

Jean-Pierre highlighted Harris' achievements, noting, "She's a former Senator and a critical partner in restarting the economy and managing the pandemic. To hear such attacks is, frankly, disgusting." The attacks prompted House Speaker Mike Johnson to urge Republican lawmakers to refrain from such behavior.

According to Politico, "House Republican leaders advised lawmakers to focus on criticizing Vice President Kamala Harris' record without reference to her race and gender." At a North Carolina rally, former President Donald Trump called Harris "unfit to rule" and a "radical left lunatic."

"For three and a half years, Lyin Kamala Harris has driven every Biden catastrophe. She's a radical left lunatic and will destroy our country if given the chance," Trump said, unleashing further attacks on her.

(With inputs from agencies.)