In a startling claim, Cornel West, an Independent far-left presidential candidate, accused Vice President Kamala Harris’ campaign of attempting to bribe him to drop out of the 2024 race. West shared these allegations during an interview on the Status Coup News podcast, where he suggested that the Harris campaign offered him a high-ranking position in her administration and the promise of paying off his campaign debts if he agreed to step aside.
West, a well-known figure in progressive politics, has faced resistance from the Democratic Party due to his potential impact on swing state voters. Polls indicate that West’s candidacy could draw votes away from Harris in crucial battleground states, which could ultimately benefit President Donald Trump.
During the interview, West described how Harris campaign staffers approached him, urging him to support Harris, framing it as a historic moment, especially for Black Americans. “They’re talking to the wrong brother,” West responded, making it clear that he was not interested in their offers of positions or resources.
When asked directly by the podcast host if a cabinet position was on the table, West hinted that there were “serious, substantive conversations” but did not elaborate further. The implications of West’s claims, if true, could have significant consequences for the Harris campaign and the broader Democratic strategy as the election approaches.
West has qualified for the ballot in several key states, including Wisconsin, Georgia, and Pennsylvania, with a Michigan judge recently ruling that he must be included on the state’s presidential ballot. These developments come as a reminder of past controversies, such as when Democrats allegedly pressured Rep. Joe Sestak (D-PA) to drop out of a Senate race during the Obama administration.
