Donald Trump has sparked controversy by questioning Vice President Kamala Harris’s racial identity, asking “is she Indian or is she black?” during an interview with a black journalist at the National Association of Black Journalists convention in Chicago. The audience gasped in shock at his remarks.
Trump claimed to have known Harris “indirectly” for a long time and said she always emphasized her Indian heritage. He then expressed surprise that she now identifies as black, asking “I didn’t know she was black until a few years ago, and now she wants to be known as black, so I’m confused, is she Indian or black?”
Harris, whose mother is Indian and father is Jamaican, responded to Trump’s comments at a Texas rally, calling them “the same old show” and saying “America deserves better.” She emphasized the need for a leader who tells the truth and respects differences.
White House spokesperson Karine Jean-Pierre condemned Trump’s comments as “impulsive and insulting,” stressing that Harris deserves respect as the Vice President of the United States.
During the same interview, Trump was repeatedly asked about his running mate choice and defended JD Vance, who has faced criticism for his comments about women without children. Trump also discussed his pledge to pardon those convicted for their roles in the January 6, 2021, US Capitol riot, saying he would pardon those who assaulted police officers if they were “innocent.” When pointed out that they have been convicted, Trump claimed the system is “very, very tough.”
Additionally, Trump expressed opposition to widespread adoption of electric cars, despite being endorsed by Tesla CEO Elon Musk.
