"This isn't mocking, this is truth," a social media user wrote in the comment box of a funny video, which is based on United States President Joe Biden.&nbsp;

The clip, which went viral online is from the Saudi Arabian TV show "Studio 22" which is a lot similar to "Saturday Night Live", a popular TV show in the US. &nbsp;&nbsp;

In the show, Biden is portrayed as a forgetful old man who fell asleep at the podium. He was woken up by a woman, who is apparently playing the role of US Vice President Kamala Harris.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/in-800-million-in-military-assistance-us-gives-heavier-high-power-capabilities-equipment-to-ukraine-470855">In $800 million military assistance, US gives heavier and high-power capabilities equipment to Ukraine</a>

In the one-minute clip, reel-life Biden can be seen moving about on the stage. He seems to be forgetting the name of the Russian President Vladimir Putin. After that, he falls asleep while speaking. Also, called VP his 'First Lady'.&nbsp;

In the viral clip, he said, "Listen to me [forgets Putin's name]. I have a very important message for you. The message is…" [still don't remember Putin's name].&nbsp;

He starts again and then said that "we are going to talk about the crisis in Africa," only to be corrected by Harris again as earlier he said "the crisis in Spain." In the clip, Harris can be seen bringing Biden back to address Russia.&nbsp;

In the end, the fake president wraps up the news conference by thanking everyone. He says, "Thank you very much. God bless you, and God bless…"

He again dozes off in the arms of Harris.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/this-is-how-a-nasa-sample-of-lunar-dust-came-to-be-sold-at-a-public-auction-for-500000-470899">This is how a NASA sample of lunar dust came to be sold at a public auction for $500,000</a>

Watch the video here:&nbsp;

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For the first time i see the Saudi TV mocking the US administration. <a href="https://t.co/8vPtU0txJ8">pic.twitter.com/8vPtU0txJ8</a>
— Asaad Sam Hanna (@AsaadHannaa) <a href="https://twitter.com/AsaadHannaa/status/1513681354348716035?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 12, 2022</a></blockquote>
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This isn't mocking, this is truth
— Σαπφώ_K 🍫 (@Q_sappho) <a href="https://twitter.com/Q_sappho/status/1513683088928387075?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 12, 2022</a></blockquote>
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While he's begging them for oil, they mock him. 
 
So he resorts to burning our emergency oil reserves in a desperate attempt to keep control of Congress 
 
Which will just make the Saudis more powerful.
— Zugly747 (@zugly747) <a href="https://twitter.com/zugly747/status/1513707968189153284?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 12, 2022</a></blockquote>
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The clip is an apparent reference to the various verbal gaffes done by US President Biden in the recent past.&nbsp;

Not so long ago, he mistakenly referred to the former First Lady Michelle Obama as the former Vice President of the country. The mistake, however, was corrected by the White House.&nbsp;

"This isn't mocking, this is truth," a social media user wrote in the comment box of a funny video, which is based on United States President Joe Biden. The clip, which went viral online is from the Saudi Arabian TV show "Studio 22" which is a lot similar to "Saturday Night Live", a popular TV show in the US.

"This isn't mocking, this is truth," a social media user wrote in the comment box of a funny video, which is based on United States President Joe Biden. The clip, which went viral online is from the Saudi Arabian TV show "Studio 22" which is a lot similar to "Saturday Night Live", a popular TV show in the US. In the show, Biden is portrayed as a forgetful old man who fell asleep at the podium. He was woken up by a woman, who is apparently playing the role of US Vice President Kamala Harris. ALSO READ | In $800 million military assistance, US gives heavier and high-power capabilities equipment to Ukraine In the one-minute clip, reel-life Biden can be seen moving about on the stage. He seems to be forgetting the name of the Russian President Vladimir Putin. After that, he falls asleep while speaking. Also, called VP his 'First Lady'. In the viral clip, he said, "Listen to me [forgets Putin's name]. I have a very important message for you. The message is…" [still don't remember Putin's name]. He starts again and then said that "we are going to talk about the crisis in Africa," only to be corrected by Harris again as earlier he said "the crisis in Spain." In the clip, Harris can be seen bringing Biden back to address Russia. In the end, the fake president wraps up the news conference by thanking everyone. He says, "Thank you very much. God bless you, and God bless…" He again dozes off in the arms of Harris. ALSO READ | This is how a NASA sample of lunar dust came to be sold at a public auction for $500,000 Watch the video here: For the first time i see the Saudi TV mocking the US administration. pic.twitter.com/8vPtU0txJ8 — Asaad Sam Hanna (@AsaadHannaa) April 12, 2022 × This isn't mocking, this is truth — Σαπφώ_K 🍫 (@Q_sappho) April 12, 2022 × While he's begging them for oil, they mock him. So he resorts to burning our emergency oil reserves in a desperate attempt to keep control of Congress Which will just make the Saudis more powerful. — Zugly747 (@zugly747) April 12, 2022 × The clip is an apparent reference to the various verbal gaffes done by US President Biden in the recent past. Not so long ago, he mistakenly referred to the former First Lady Michelle Obama as the former Vice President of the country. The mistake, however, was corrected by the White House.

Watch: Saudi TV show pokes fun at Joe Biden, shows him as sleepy and forgetful old man

On Tuesday, US President Joe Biden signed a bill making lynching a federal hate crime, putting an end to more than a century of delays in criminalising the symbol of what he called "pure terror."

The new law will punish anyone convicted of lynching for up to 30 years, ending what researchers say was an unbroken history of impunity over the thousands of lynchings that took place between the end of the Civil War and 1950.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/war-in-ukraine-enhances-eus-resolve-to-act-in-indo-pacific-says-top-diplomat-gabriele-466800" hreflang="en">War in Ukraine enhances EU's resolve to act in Indo Pacific, says top diplomat Gabriele</a>

The bill is named after the tragically murdered 14-year-old black teen Bill Emmett Till, who sparked the civil rights movement during the 1950s.

President Biden was joined at the Rose Garden ceremony by Vice President Kamala Harris, who became the first Black female vice president, and Michelle Duster, the great-granddaughter of anti-lynching activist and pioneering Black journalist Ida B. Wells.

Biden said lynching was "pure terror," noting the horrific practice of killing mostly black Americans in public, often in front of enthusiastic white crowds in the post-slavery United States.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/united-states-still-doubts-that-russia-is-serious-in-talks-with-ukraine-blinken-466765" hreflang="en">United States still doubts that Russia is serious in talks with Ukraine: Blinken</a>

However, Biden warned that "racial hate isn't an old problem, it's a persistent problem," stating that "hate never goes away, it only hides."

VP Harris also warned that "lynching is not a relic of the past."

"Racial acts of terror still occur in our nation," she said.&nbsp;

Earlier this month the Senate had unanimously passed this bill. Democratic Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer has said that the long delay has proven to be "a stain on America".

Watch |&nbsp;U.S. President Joe Biden says Asia-Pacific is still a priority as he hosts Singapore PM Loong

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-president-joe-biden-says-asia-pacific-is-still-a-priority-as-he-hosts-singapore-pm-loong-466806/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

In August 1955, Bill Emmett Till was abducted and murdered while visiting relatives in the US southern state of Mississippi. The mutilated body of the teenager was discovered three days later in a nearby river.

This was in response to a white woman, Carolyn Bryant, alleging that he had propositioned her in a store and touched her on the arm, hand, and waist.&nbsp;

The mother of Till famously demanded that her son's remains be displayed in an open casket so that everyone could see what had been done.

A white Mississippi jury acquitted two men charged with murder, Roy Bryant, Carolyn Bryant's husband, and J W Milam, his half-brother. Later, the pair admitted that they had killed the boy in a magazine interview.

(WIth inputs from agencies)

On Tuesday, US President Joe Biden signed a bill making lynching a federal hate crime, putting an end to more than a century of delays in criminalising the symbol of what he called "pure terror.

On Tuesday, US President Joe Biden signed a bill making lynching a federal hate crime, putting an end to more than a century of delays in criminalising the symbol of what he called "pure terror." The new law will punish anyone convicted of lynching for up to 30 years, ending what researchers say was an unbroken history of impunity over the thousands of lynchings that took place between the end of the Civil War and 1950. Also read | War in Ukraine enhances EU's resolve to act in Indo Pacific, says top diplomat Gabriele The bill is named after the tragically murdered 14-year-old black teen Bill Emmett Till, who sparked the civil rights movement during the 1950s. President Biden was joined at the Rose Garden ceremony by Vice President Kamala Harris, who became the first Black female vice president, and Michelle Duster, the great-granddaughter of anti-lynching activist and pioneering Black journalist Ida B. Wells. Biden said lynching was "pure terror," noting the horrific practice of killing mostly black Americans in public, often in front of enthusiastic white crowds in the post-slavery United States. Also read | United States still doubts that Russia is serious in talks with Ukraine: Blinken However, Biden warned that "racial hate isn't an old problem, it's a persistent problem," stating that "hate never goes away, it only hides." VP Harris also warned that "lynching is not a relic of the past." "Racial acts of terror still occur in our nation," she said. Earlier this month the Senate had unanimously passed this bill. Democratic Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer has said that the long delay has proven to be "a stain on America". Watch | U.S. President Joe Biden says Asia-Pacific is still a priority as he hosts Singapore PM Loong In August 1955, Bill Emmett Till was abducted and murdered while visiting relatives in the US southern state of Mississippi. The mutilated body of the teenager was discovered three days later in a nearby river. This was in response to a white woman, Carolyn Bryant, alleging that he had propositioned her in a store and touched her on the arm, hand, and waist. The mother of Till famously demanded that her son's remains be displayed in an open casket so that everyone could see what had been done. A white Mississippi jury acquitted two men charged with murder, Roy Bryant, Carolyn Bryant's husband, and J W Milam, his half-brother. Later, the pair admitted that they had killed the boy in a magazine interview. (WIth inputs from agencies)

Biden makes the 'pure terror' of lynching a federal crime

US First Lady Jill Biden was not happy when President Joe Biden picked Kamala Harris as running mate and for vice president, according to a new book reporting on the election and first year of the 46th president.

“There are millions of people in the United States. Why … do we have to choose the one who attacked Joe?” she was quoted as saying in ‘This Will Not Pass: Trump, Biden, and the Battle for America’s Future’, according to the excerpts obtained by The Politico.

The book was written by the New York Times reporters Jonathan Martin and Alex Burns which is due to be published on May 3.

Jill’s outburst was in reference to a 2019 debate where Harris faced off with Biden in the Democratic primary.

During the debate, she called out Biden for the way he described his past working relationship with two segregationist lawmakers.

She accused Biden of opposing bussing, a way of racially integrating public schools, as a young senator in the 1970s.

Biden was reportedly hurt by the insinuation that he had been racist, according to The Guardian.

“I do not believe you are a racist. And I agree with you when you commit yourself to the importance of finding common ground,” Harris said.

“But I also believe – and it’s personal, and it was hurtful to hear you talk about the reputations of two United States senators who built their reputations and careers on the segregation of race in this country.”

However, Jill Biden won’t be making any comments on the book excerpts.

&nbsp;“Many books will be written on the 2020 campaign, with countless retellings of events – some accurate, some inaccurate. The first lady and her team do not plan to comment on any of them,” A spokesman for&nbsp;Jill Biden, Michael Larosa, told Politico.

US First Lady Jill Biden was not happy when President Joe Biden picked Kamala Harris as running mate and for vice president, according to a new book reporting on the election and first year of the 46th president.

US First Lady Jill Biden was not happy when President Joe Biden picked Kamala Harris as running mate and for vice president, according to a new book reporting on the election and first year of the 46th president. “There are millions of people in the United States. Why … do we have to choose the one who attacked Joe?” she was quoted as saying in ‘This Will Not Pass: Trump, Biden, and the Battle for America’s Future’, according to the excerpts obtained by The Politico. The book was written by the New York Times reporters Jonathan Martin and Alex Burns which is due to be published on May 3. Jill’s outburst was in reference to a 2019 debate where Harris faced off with Biden in the Democratic primary. During the debate, she called out Biden for the way he described his past working relationship with two segregationist lawmakers. She accused Biden of opposing bussing, a way of racially integrating public schools, as a young senator in the 1970s. Biden was reportedly hurt by the insinuation that he had been racist, according to The Guardian. “I do not believe you are a racist. And I agree with you when you commit yourself to the importance of finding common ground,” Harris said. “But I also believe – and it’s personal, and it was hurtful to hear you talk about the reputations of two United States senators who built their reputations and careers on the segregation of race in this country.” However, Jill Biden won’t be making any comments on the book excerpts. “Many books will be written on the 2020 campaign, with countless retellings of events – some accurate, some inaccurate. The first lady and her team do not plan to comment on any of them,” A spokesman for Jill Biden, Michael Larosa, told Politico.

Jill Biden was incensed at husband for choosing Kamala as VP, says book

US Vice President Kamala Harris’s office is facing another high-profile departure as Sabrina Singh is all set to step down from her role as the deputy press secretary. Singh will be moving to the defence department for a new role, according to an internal email obtained by multiple US media outlets.<o:p></o:p>

Jamal Simmons, the communications director for Kamala Harris, wrote in the internal memo about the ‘sad news’ of Singh’s departure from her role. "We will miss her institutional knowledge, strategic counsel and rapid-fire e-mail fingers," Simmons wrote in the memo.

<o:p>Also read |&nbsp;</o:p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/targeting-civilians-is-a-war-crime-antony-blinken-believes-russia-guilty-of-committing-war-crimes-463292">Antony Blinken believes Russia guilty of committing war crimes</a>

Singh has served as deputy press secretary since the beginning of the administration. She was one of the longest serving aides in a team which has employed a number of newcomers in the recent past. <o:p></o:p>

Singh was hired in March 2020 to manage the communications for political operations, and she became a key advisor during the general elections.

<o:p>Also read |&nbsp;</o:p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/kosovo-seeks-bidens-support-to-join-nato-report-463258">Kosovo seeks Biden's support to join NATO: Report</a>

A source told CBS News that Harris has decided to "reconfigure" her communications department after the recent departure that followed former press secretary Symone Sanders and communications director Ashley Etienne.<o:p></o:p>

The new press secretary will be Ernesto "Ernie" Apreza. Apreza, which is part of the White House at the moment in the Office of Public Engagement, was a part of the 2020 Biden-Harris campaign as well as Harris’ own campaign back in 2019.<o:p></o:p>

Simmons also told the staff in the email that a new press secretary has been hired — "she will be a fantastic leader" of the communications team, he wrote. <o:p></o:p>

There were also a couple of more changes to Harris’ office – Herbie Ziskend joined as a senior communications adviser while Rachel Palermo was appointed the new deputy communications director.

<o:p></o:p>

Watch | Polish Prez, US VP Kamala Harris hold joint presser on ongoing Russia-Ukraine crisis<o:p></o:p>

&nbsp;

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/polish-prez-us-vp-kamala-harris-hold-joint-presser-on-ongoing-russia-ukraine-crisis-460996/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

(With inputs from agencies)

US Vice President Kamala Harris’s office is facing another high-profile departure as Sabrina Singh is all set to step down from her role as the deputy press secretary.

US Vice President Kamala Harris’s office is facing another high-profile departure as Sabrina Singh is all set to step down from her role as the deputy press secretary. Singh will be moving to the defence department for a new role, according to an internal email obtained by multiple US media outlets. Jamal Simmons, the communications director for Kamala Harris, wrote in the internal memo about the ‘sad news’ of Singh’s departure from her role. "We will miss her institutional knowledge, strategic counsel and rapid-fire e-mail fingers," Simmons wrote in the memo. Also read | Antony Blinken believes Russia guilty of committing war crimes Singh has served as deputy press secretary since the beginning of the administration. She was one of the longest serving aides in a team which has employed a number of newcomers in the recent past. Singh was hired in March 2020 to manage the communications for political operations, and she became a key advisor during the general elections. Also read | Kosovo seeks Biden's support to join NATO: Report A source told CBS News that Harris has decided to "reconfigure" her communications department after the recent departure that followed former press secretary Symone Sanders and communications director Ashley Etienne. The new press secretary will be Ernesto "Ernie" Apreza. Apreza, which is part of the White House at the moment in the Office of Public Engagement, was a part of the 2020 Biden-Harris campaign as well as Harris’ own campaign back in 2019. Simmons also told the staff in the email that a new press secretary has been hired — "she will be a fantastic leader" of the communications team, he wrote. There were also a couple of more changes to Harris’ office – Herbie Ziskend joined as a senior communications adviser while Rachel Palermo was appointed the new deputy communications director. Watch | Polish Prez, US VP Kamala Harris hold joint presser on ongoing Russia-Ukraine crisis (With inputs from agencies)

Kamala Harris's deputy press secretary is leaving her office, in latest high-profile departure

Vice President of United States Kamala Harris is in Poland in order to smooth its relation with its key ally after a recent turbulence over fighter jets. She is currently holding a joint presser with the Polish President, listen in.

Polish Prez, US VP Kamala Harris hold joint presser on ongoing Russia-Ukraine crisis

In his latest performance, rapper Kanye West included an audio clip of the US Vice President Kamala Harris in an attempt to mock her and President Biden as they face low approval amid high inflation, border crisis, troops withdrawal from Afghanistan and the current Ukraine crisis.&nbsp; 
 
Harris' voice was heard in West's Donda 2 experience on Tuesday night in Miami.

"We did it, we did it, Joe," ran the voiceover, as dancers in black marched in a circle through the water around West and a church.&nbsp; 
 
The audio was taken from a video that Harris had posted on Twitter on November 7, 2020 after the Biden-Harris ticket won the US presidential election. The video had Harris calling up Biden and congratulating him.

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We did it, <a href="https://twitter.com/JoeBiden?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@JoeBiden</a>. <a href="https://t.co/oCgeylsjB4">pic.twitter.com/oCgeylsjB4</a>
— Kamala Harris (@KamalaHarris) <a href="https://twitter.com/KamalaHarris/status/1325126733482385409?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 7, 2020</a></blockquote>
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West has been an open supporter of former President Trump in the past and many felt his including of Harris's audio was not meant as a compliment.&nbsp; 
 
West though did not offer any explanation on why he had used the audio clip at the event. 
 
While performing in Miami, the rapper performed songs that included references to estranged wife Kim Kardashian as well as her new boyfriend Pete Davidson. In one of the songs, Kanye also seemed to rap about the private messages that Kim Kardashian had sent him following his online attacks on Pete Davidson.&nbsp;

<h2><a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/hollywood/news-donda-2-event-kanye-west-takes-a-dig-at-pete-davidson-yet-again-455827" hreflang="en">Donda 2 event: Kanye West takes a dig at Pete Davidson yet again</a></h2>

In his latest performance, rapper Kanye West included an audio clip of the US Vice President Kamala Harris in an attempt to mock her and President Biden as they face low approval amid high inflation, border crisis, troops withdrawal from Afghanistan and the current Ukraine crisis.

In his latest performance, rapper Kanye West included an audio clip of the US Vice President Kamala Harris in an attempt to mock her and President Biden as they face low approval amid high inflation, border crisis, troops withdrawal from Afghanistan and the current Ukraine crisis. Harris' voice was heard in West's Donda 2 experience on Tuesday night in Miami. "We did it, we did it, Joe," ran the voiceover, as dancers in black marched in a circle through the water around West and a church. The audio was taken from a video that Harris had posted on Twitter on November 7, 2020 after the Biden-Harris ticket won the US presidential election. The video had Harris calling up Biden and congratulating him. We did it, @JoeBiden. pic.twitter.com/oCgeylsjB4 — Kamala Harris (@KamalaHarris) November 7, 2020 × West has been an open supporter of former President Trump in the past and many felt his including of Harris's audio was not meant as a compliment. West though did not offer any explanation on why he had used the audio clip at the event. While performing in Miami, the rapper performed songs that included references to estranged wife Kim Kardashian as well as her new boyfriend Pete Davidson. In one of the songs, Kanye also seemed to rap about the private messages that Kim Kardashian had sent him following his online attacks on Pete Davidson. Donda 2 event: Kanye West takes a dig at Pete Davidson yet again

Kanye West uses Kamala Harris audio clip during 'Donda 2' perfromance

US Vice President Kamala Harris said on Saturday that any Russian invasion in Ukraine will invite not only damaging economic sanctions but also a bolstered NATO on Europe's eastern flank.

"We have prepared economic measures that will be swift, severe, and united," Harris said.&nbsp;"We will target Russia's financial institutions and key industries."

The United States will not stop with economic measures, but will further reinforce the eastern flank of NATO, Harris said at the Munich Security Conference, which she attended in person.

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The United States and European countries remain on high alert should Russia create a pretext for invasion. Her comments appeared aimed at sending Putin a message the crisis has bolstered the 30-country NATO alliance's resolve to push back against any Russian aggression.

With an estimated 150,000 Russian troops now posted around Ukraine’s borders, the long-simmering separatist conflict could provide the spark for a broader attack.

Ukraine’s military said shelling killed a soldier Saturday in the government-held part of the Donetsk region and that separatist forces were placing artillery in residential areas to try and provoke a response.

Also see |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/strike-force-russias-tornado-s-rocket-system-can-strike-multiple-targets-454294">Strike force: Russia's Tornado-S rocket system can strike multiple targets</a>

On Friday, the rebels began evacuating civilians to Russia with an announcement that appeared to be part of their and Moscow’s efforts to paint Ukraine as the aggressor.

US President Joe Biden said late Friday he was now “convinced” that Russian President Vladimir Putin has decided to invade Ukraine and assault the capital, Kyiv.

Meanwhile, the Kremlin announced that it would conduct massive nuclear drills Saturday, and Putin pledged to protect Russia’s national interests against what it sees as encroaching Western threats.

Biden reiterated his threat of crushing economic and diplomatic sanctions against Russia if it does invade Ukraine, and pressed Putin to reconsider.

Lines of communication between Moscow and Washington remain open: the American and Russian defense chiefs spoke Friday. Secretary of State Antony Blinken and Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov agreed to meet next week.

Immediate worries focused on eastern Ukraine, where Ukrainian forces have been fighting the pro-Russia rebels since 2014 in a conflict that has killed some 14,000 people.

Violations of a 2015 ceasefire agreement, including shelling and shooting along the line of contact, have been common.

(With inputs from agencies)

US Vice President Kamala Harris said on Saturday that any Russian invasion in Ukraine will invite not only damaging economic sanctions but also a bolstered NATO on Europe's eastern flank.

US Vice President Kamala Harris said on Saturday that any Russian invasion in Ukraine will invite not only damaging economic sanctions but also a bolstered NATO on Europe's eastern flank. "We have prepared economic measures that will be swift, severe, and united," Harris said. "We will target Russia's financial institutions and key industries." The United States will not stop with economic measures, but will further reinforce the eastern flank of NATO, Harris said at the Munich Security Conference, which she attended in person. The United States and European countries remain on high alert should Russia create a pretext for invasion. Her comments appeared aimed at sending Putin a message the crisis has bolstered the 30-country NATO alliance's resolve to push back against any Russian aggression. With an estimated 150,000 Russian troops now posted around Ukraine’s borders, the long-simmering separatist conflict could provide the spark for a broader attack. Ukraine’s military said shelling killed a soldier Saturday in the government-held part of the Donetsk region and that separatist forces were placing artillery in residential areas to try and provoke a response. Also see | Strike force: Russia's Tornado-S rocket system can strike multiple targets On Friday, the rebels began evacuating civilians to Russia with an announcement that appeared to be part of their and Moscow’s efforts to paint Ukraine as the aggressor. US President Joe Biden said late Friday he was now “convinced” that Russian President Vladimir Putin has decided to invade Ukraine and assault the capital, Kyiv. Meanwhile, the Kremlin announced that it would conduct massive nuclear drills Saturday, and Putin pledged to protect Russia’s national interests against what it sees as encroaching Western threats. Biden reiterated his threat of crushing economic and diplomatic sanctions against Russia if it does invade Ukraine, and pressed Putin to reconsider. Lines of communication between Moscow and Washington remain open: the American and Russian defense chiefs spoke Friday. Secretary of State Antony Blinken and Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov agreed to meet next week. Immediate worries focused on eastern Ukraine, where Ukrainian forces have been fighting the pro-Russia rebels since 2014 in a conflict that has killed some 14,000 people. Violations of a 2015 ceasefire agreement, including shelling and shooting along the line of contact, have been common. (With inputs from agencies)

Russia invading Ukraine will invite bolstered NATO on Europe's eastern flank: Harris

On the Day 2 of the Munich Security Conference, the West urged Russia to de-escalate tensions with Ukraine. The world leaders converge as tensions spike.

US Vice President Kamala Harris addresses Munich Security Conference

US Vice President Kamala Harris met the NATO chief and discussed the Ukraine conflict. US Secretary of State Antony Blinken reiterated that US does not see any signs of de-escalations from Russia.

US Vice-President Kamala Harris meets NATO chief, discusses Ukraine conflict

Schkeema Troutman had just started describing the many difficulties of trying to raise a family in a city with high levels of lead in its drinking water when Vice President Kamala Harris noticed the mother of three was not being heard.

Troutman’s microphone was not working, limiting her voice to nearly a whisper at a roundtable discussion here Friday. So Harris stood and handed her microphone over to amplify Troutman’s story.

“You have so many different things to worry about,” Troutman said of owning a home near lead service lines, and the dozens of people in the room could hear her.

“That’s the thing,” Harris responded. “You should not have to worry about that.”

The brief exchange highlighted Harris' aim in traveling to Newark, which the administration views as a model of how a community can overcome water contamination after years of neglect. But for Harris and the White House, the trip was also an opportunity to amplify issues directly affecting underserved communities, particularly amid rising anxiety from civil rights advocates and grassroots organizations after seeing President Joe Biden’s sprawling proposals centered on racial equity slimmed during negotiations with a divided Congress.

The White House has made removing every lead pipe within 10 years in the United States a centerpiece of its plan to address racial disparities and environmental issues in the wake of water contamination crises in recent years from Newark to Flint, Michigan. As many as 10 million lead service lines still deliver water to schools, offices, homes and day care centers throughout the country.

Harris said Newark, which removed roughly 23,000 lead pipes in nearly three years, could provide a road map for communities across the United States. She described the issue as not just as a “public health crisis,” but also one fueling racial disparities.

“Lead pipes do exist in high-income communities, but in high-income communities, they have the income to fix it, which means that whether it gets fixed or not might be a function of how much money you have,” Harris said. “And that’s not right.”

Harris used the event to highlight $15 billion in funding to remove lead pipes that is part of the $1 trillion bipartisan infrastructure package that Biden signed in November.

Biden initially proposed $45 billion in the infrastructure bill for lead removal. Another $10 billion is tucked in a sprawling social-safety net and climate package torpedoed by congressional gridlock. Other administration proposals that supporters celebrated for promoting racial equity have since been cut or removed entirely as Democrats try to salvage the plan, including investments in affordable housing, clean energy provisions, home health care work and reconnecting neighborhoods divided by highways.

First lady Jill Biden confirmed to educators this week that Democrats had cut a proposal to provide two free years of community college from the legislation, adding to the frustrations of civil rights leaders who say the administration is not prioritizing legislation aimed at helping Black and Latino communities.

“Nationwide, frustration is building given the failure to cancel student debt, expand voting rights and pass police reform,” said Derrick Johnson, president of the NAACP. “For the most part, this administration is saying all the right words, but there are far too few outcomes to back those up.”

(BEGIN OPTIONAL TRIM.)

Along with providing Harris an opportunity to counter those complaints, the trip also gave her a chance to break out of Washington, amid concerns that she has lost political momentum and that the White House has sunk her with a portfolio that could produce few political victories.

“One of the tragedies of the first year, and it’s just been a year, has been that she’s been a prisoner of Washington, D.C., and she’s been a prisoner of the press and she’s not out in these streets,” Bakari Sellers, a former lawmaker in South Carolina and one of Harris’ top surrogates during her presidential campaign, told "The Breakfast Club," a New York-based radio show, last month. “I want her in these places actually talking to real people.”

(END OPTIONAL TRIM.)

Local officials and residents in Newark on Friday commended Harris for highlighting lead exposure, which can damage the brain and kidneys and interfere with red blood cells that carry oxygen to all parts of the body. The neurotoxin poses a particular danger to children, whose nervous systems are still developing.

But even as she won plaudits for her appearance Friday, her promotion of a solution whose future in Congress is partly uncertain risked creating another future political backlash for her.

“This is just what communities need: to be heard,” said Yvette Jordan, a teacher and chair of the Newark Education Workers Caucus, one of the plaintiffs who last year agreed to settle a federal lawsuit accusing Newark and state officials of violating safe water laws. “But this is a first step, not a last step.”

City officials in Newark were not always eager to talk about the issue. Mayor Ras Baraka, who sat with Harris on Friday, was long accused of neglecting the problem, even mailing a brochure to residents claiming that “the quality of water meets all federal and state standards,” despite evidence of alarming levels of lead.

But after intense scrutiny from community organizers and the federal government, the city began to acknowledge the severity of the issue. Newark accomplished its turnaround last year before the passage of the infrastructure bill; Baraka received $120 million in bonds from the county’s improvement authority.

If the Biden administration wants to see the progress replicated across the country, they will need the funding outlined in the sprawling social safety net package, known as Build Back Better, according to Erik Olson, senior strategic director for health at the Natural Resources Defense Council, an advocacy group. Even that might not be enough; removing every lead pipe in the nation could cost $60 billion, according to one industry estimate.

Olson’s organization has called for the Environmental Protection Agency to strengthen federal regulations that would require localities to remove lead pipes and recently sent letter to the agency demanding the administration prioritize investments to underserved communities.

“We’re worried,” he said, “they will be left behind.”

Schkeema Troutman had just started describing the many difficulties of trying to raise a family in a city with high levels of lead in its drinking water when Vice President Kamala Harris noticed the mother of three was not being heard.

Schkeema Troutman had just started describing the many difficulties of trying to raise a family in a city with high levels of lead in its drinking water when Vice President Kamala Harris noticed the mother of three was not being heard. Troutman’s microphone was not working, limiting her voice to nearly a whisper at a roundtable discussion here Friday. So Harris stood and handed her microphone over to amplify Troutman’s story. “You have so many different things to worry about,” Troutman said of owning a home near lead service lines, and the dozens of people in the room could hear her. “That’s the thing,” Harris responded. “You should not have to worry about that.” The brief exchange highlighted Harris' aim in traveling to Newark, which the administration views as a model of how a community can overcome water contamination after years of neglect. But for Harris and the White House, the trip was also an opportunity to amplify issues directly affecting underserved communities, particularly amid rising anxiety from civil rights advocates and grassroots organizations after seeing President Joe Biden’s sprawling proposals centered on racial equity slimmed during negotiations with a divided Congress. The White House has made removing every lead pipe within 10 years in the United States a centerpiece of its plan to address racial disparities and environmental issues in the wake of water contamination crises in recent years from Newark to Flint, Michigan. As many as 10 million lead service lines still deliver water to schools, offices, homes and day care centers throughout the country. Harris said Newark, which removed roughly 23,000 lead pipes in nearly three years, could provide a road map for communities across the United States. She described the issue as not just as a “public health crisis,” but also one fueling racial disparities. “Lead pipes do exist in high-income communities, but in high-income communities, they have the income to fix it, which means that whether it gets fixed or not might be a function of how much money you have,” Harris said. “And that’s not right.” Harris used the event to highlight $15 billion in funding to remove lead pipes that is part of the $1 trillion bipartisan infrastructure package that Biden signed in November. Biden initially proposed $45 billion in the infrastructure bill for lead removal. Another $10 billion is tucked in a sprawling social-safety net and climate package torpedoed by congressional gridlock. Other administration proposals that supporters celebrated for promoting racial equity have since been cut or removed entirely as Democrats try to salvage the plan, including investments in affordable housing, clean energy provisions, home health care work and reconnecting neighborhoods divided by highways. First lady Jill Biden confirmed to educators this week that Democrats had cut a proposal to provide two free years of community college from the legislation, adding to the frustrations of civil rights leaders who say the administration is not prioritizing legislation aimed at helping Black and Latino communities. “Nationwide, frustration is building given the failure to cancel student debt, expand voting rights and pass police reform,” said Derrick Johnson, president of the NAACP. “For the most part, this administration is saying all the right words, but there are far too few outcomes to back those up.” (BEGIN OPTIONAL TRIM.) Along with providing Harris an opportunity to counter those complaints, the trip also gave her a chance to break out of Washington, amid concerns that she has lost political momentum and that the White House has sunk her with a portfolio that could produce few political victories. “One of the tragedies of the first year, and it’s just been a year, has been that she’s been a prisoner of Washington, D.C., and she’s been a prisoner of the press and she’s not out in these streets,” Bakari Sellers, a former lawmaker in South Carolina and one of Harris’ top surrogates during her presidential campaign, told "The Breakfast Club," a New York-based radio show, last month. “I want her in these places actually talking to real people.” (END OPTIONAL TRIM.) Local officials and residents in Newark on Friday commended Harris for highlighting lead exposure, which can damage the brain and kidneys and interfere with red blood cells that carry oxygen to all parts of the body. The neurotoxin poses a particular danger to children, whose nervous systems are still developing. But even as she won plaudits for her appearance Friday, her promotion of a solution whose future in Congress is partly uncertain risked creating another future political backlash for her. “This is just what communities need: to be heard,” said Yvette Jordan, a teacher and chair of the Newark Education Workers Caucus, one of the plaintiffs who last year agreed to settle a federal lawsuit accusing Newark and state officials of violating safe water laws. “But this is a first step, not a last step.” City officials in Newark were not always eager to talk about the issue. Mayor Ras Baraka, who sat with Harris on Friday, was long accused of neglecting the problem, even mailing a brochure to residents claiming that “the quality of water meets all federal and state standards,” despite evidence of alarming levels of lead. But after intense scrutiny from community organizers and the federal government, the city began to acknowledge the severity of the issue. Newark accomplished its turnaround last year before the passage of the infrastructure bill; Baraka received $120 million in bonds from the county’s improvement authority. If the Biden administration wants to see the progress replicated across the country, they will need the funding outlined in the sprawling social safety net package, known as Build Back Better, according to Erik Olson, senior strategic director for health at the Natural Resources Defense Council, an advocacy group. Even that might not be enough; removing every lead pipe in the nation could cost $60 billion, according to one industry estimate. Olson’s organization has called for the Environmental Protection Agency to strengthen federal regulations that would require localities to remove lead pipes and recently sent letter to the agency demanding the administration prioritize investments to underserved communities. “We’re worried,” he said, “they will be left behind.”

Harris says replacing lead pipes is a priority, despite limited funding

The&nbsp;husband&nbsp;of US Vice President Kamala&nbsp;Harris&nbsp;was evacuated Tuesday after a reported bomb threat at the Washington high school he was visiting to celebrate African American history, officials said.

Douglas Emhoff, whose official title is second gentleman, was pulled away by his security detail during commemorations of Black History Month at Dunbar High School&nbsp;in Washington, DC. Pupils were also told to leave.

"It was a bomb threat," Washington public schools spokeswoman Enrique Gutierrez told reporters. "We had a threat today to the facility so... basically we took the precaution of evacuating everybody, as you saw. I think everyone is safe. The building is clear."

No immediate details about the nature of the bomb threat were made public.

Emhoff spokeswoman Katie Peters tweeted that "Secret Service was made aware of a security threat at a school where the @SecondGentleman was meeting with students and faculty."

"Mr Emhoff is safe and the school has been evacuated. We are grateful to Secret Service and DC Police for their work," Peters said.

Harris&nbsp;is the first woman elected US vice president and also the first Black woman and Asian American in the post. Emhoff, a lawyer who is the first-ever&nbsp;husband&nbsp;of a US vice president, frequently travels alone or with&nbsp;Harris&nbsp;to help promote the White House agenda.

&nbsp;

The husband of US Vice President Kamala Harris was evacuated Tuesday after a reported bomb threat at the Washington high school he was visiting to celebrate African American history, officials said.

The husband of US Vice President Kamala Harris was evacuated Tuesday after a reported bomb threat at the Washington high school he was visiting to celebrate African American history, officials said. Douglas Emhoff, whose official title is second gentleman, was pulled away by his security detail during commemorations of Black History Month at Dunbar High School in Washington, DC. Pupils were also told to leave. "It was a bomb threat," Washington public schools spokeswoman Enrique Gutierrez told reporters. "We had a threat today to the facility so... basically we took the precaution of evacuating everybody, as you saw. I think everyone is safe. The building is clear." No immediate details about the nature of the bomb threat were made public. Emhoff spokeswoman Katie Peters tweeted that "Secret Service was made aware of a security threat at a school where the @SecondGentleman was meeting with students and faculty." "Mr Emhoff is safe and the school has been evacuated. We are grateful to Secret Service and DC Police for their work," Peters said. Harris is the first woman elected US vice president and also the first Black woman and Asian American in the post. Emhoff, a lawyer who is the first-ever husband of a US vice president, frequently travels alone or with Harris to help promote the White House agenda.

US Vice President  Kamala Harris's husband Douglas Emhoff evacuated after bomb threat

A new report has revealed that US Vice President Kamala Harris had driven within yards of a pipe bomb at Democratic National Committee headquarters during Capitol riot.

On January 6, 2021, she had to remain inside the headquarters due to a security lapse by law enforcement while responding to several incidents as per CNN.

"In order to maintain operational security, the Secret Service does not discuss protective means and methods," CNN quoted a Secret Service spokesman.

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-a-stunning-video-from-capitol-riots-363269/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Hundreds of supporters of former US President Donald Trump stormed the US legislature in Washington on January 6 last year in an effort to block certification of President Joe Biden's November 2020 election victory.

More than 700 people have been arrested as part of the investigation into the riot that left five people dead and the country reeling. That list grows by the day as the sprawling investigation churns on.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-retaliates-against-bidens-capitol-riot-anniversary-speech-calls-it-political-theatre-442812">Also read |&nbsp;Trump retaliates against Biden's Capitol riot anniversary speech, calls it 'political theatre'</a>

Most of the accused are not charged with violence or vandalism but merely with having illegally entered the building and generally face misdemeanor charges.

However some longer sentences have been handed down and more of the approximately 225 individuals accused of acts of violence could face serious repercussions in court.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/over-1000-public-figures-participated-in-us-capitol-riot-aided-trumps-effort-to-overturn-election-442419">Also read |&nbsp;Over 1000 public figures participated in US Capitol riot, aided Trump’s effort to overturn election</a>

The US House of Representatives committee investigating the attack has issued more than 50 subpoenas and heard from more than 300 witnesses. It is expected to release an interim report in the summer and a final report in the fall.

Four people died in the hours-long chaos after Trump urged supporters to march to the Capitol and "fight like hell."&nbsp;

Social media platforms were widely blamed for amplifying calls to violence and spreading misinformation that contributed to the January 6 attempt to violently overturn the election results.

One police officer died on that day after battling rioters and four later died by suicide. Around 140 police officers were injured.&nbsp;

 
(With inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

A new report has revealed that US Vice President Kamala Harris had driven within yards of a pipe bomb at Democratic National Committee headquarters during Capitol riot.

A new report has revealed that US Vice President Kamala Harris had driven within yards of a pipe bomb at Democratic National Committee headquarters during Capitol riot. On January 6, 2021, she had to remain inside the headquarters due to a security lapse by law enforcement while responding to several incidents as per CNN. "In order to maintain operational security, the Secret Service does not discuss protective means and methods," CNN quoted a Secret Service spokesman. Hundreds of supporters of former US President Donald Trump stormed the US legislature in Washington on January 6 last year in an effort to block certification of President Joe Biden's November 2020 election victory. More than 700 people have been arrested as part of the investigation into the riot that left five people dead and the country reeling. That list grows by the day as the sprawling investigation churns on. Also read | Trump retaliates against Biden's Capitol riot anniversary speech, calls it 'political theatre' Most of the accused are not charged with violence or vandalism but merely with having illegally entered the building and generally face misdemeanor charges. However some longer sentences have been handed down and more of the approximately 225 individuals accused of acts of violence could face serious repercussions in court. Also read | Over 1000 public figures participated in US Capitol riot, aided Trump’s effort to overturn election The US House of Representatives committee investigating the attack has issued more than 50 subpoenas and heard from more than 300 witnesses. It is expected to release an interim report in the summer and a final report in the fall. Four people died in the hours-long chaos after Trump urged supporters to march to the Capitol and "fight like hell." Social media platforms were widely blamed for amplifying calls to violence and spreading misinformation that contributed to the January 6 attempt to violently overturn the election results. One police officer died on that day after battling rioters and four later died by suicide. Around 140 police officers were injured. (With inputs from agencies)

US Vice President Kamala Harris drove within yards of pipe bomb during Capitol riot: Report

How will January 6 come to be remembered in the years ahead- will it be remembered as a moment that accelerated the unraveling of the oldest greatest democracy in the world or a moment when we decided to secure and strengthen our democracy for generations to come?

Capitol Riots Anniversary: 'How will January 6 be remembered?' Asks Kamala Harris

In an interview on Sunday, US Vice President Kamala Harris warned that if Congress fails to pass voting rights legislation, America will lose its "role model" reputation.

With Senator Joe Manchin, D-W.Va., effectively killing President Biden's Build Back Better bill, the administration appears to be shifting its focus to other policy areas. During the summer, Harris was entrusted with promoting voting rights.

"People around the world watch what we do as America, because we have held ourselves out to be a model of the efficacy of the ability of a democracy to coexist with economic strength and power," Harris said.

"We have been a role model, saying, you can see this, aspire to this, and reject autocracies and autocratic leadership," she added.

She warned that right now, we're about to take ourselves off the map as a role model if we let people destroy one of the most important pillars of democracy, which is free and fair elections. 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-vice-president-kamala-harris-admits-biden-admin-failed-to-see-omicron-variant-coming-437918">Also read | US Vice President Kamala Harris admits Biden admin ‘failed to see Omicron variant coming’</a>

She pushed for the passage of the For the People Act and the John Lewis Voting Rights Advancement Act.

In her most recent remarks on her voting rights mission, she cautioned Americans that unless Congress works together on the bill, the country will be thrown off its pedestal. 
 
Watch | United States: Kamala Harris to become 1st women with presidential powers

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/united-states-kamala-harris-to-become-1st-women-with-presidential-powers-430673/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

While most Americans may not consider voting rights to be an "urgent" issue, Harris believes that the more the administration emphasises the issue, the more people will recognise that some are "suppressing the right of the American people to vote."

(With inputs from agencies)

In an interview on Sunday, US Vice President Kamala Harris warned that if Congress fails to pass voting rights legislation, America will lose its "role model" reputation.

In an interview on Sunday, US Vice President Kamala Harris warned that if Congress fails to pass voting rights legislation, America will lose its "role model" reputation. With Senator Joe Manchin, D-W.Va., effectively killing President Biden's Build Back Better bill, the administration appears to be shifting its focus to other policy areas. During the summer, Harris was entrusted with promoting voting rights. "People around the world watch what we do as America, because we have held ourselves out to be a model of the efficacy of the ability of a democracy to coexist with economic strength and power," Harris said. "We have been a role model, saying, you can see this, aspire to this, and reject autocracies and autocratic leadership," she added. She warned that right now, we're about to take ourselves off the map as a role model if we let people destroy one of the most important pillars of democracy, which is free and fair elections. Also read | US Vice President Kamala Harris admits Biden admin ‘failed to see Omicron variant coming’ She pushed for the passage of the For the People Act and the John Lewis Voting Rights Advancement Act. In her most recent remarks on her voting rights mission, she cautioned Americans that unless Congress works together on the bill, the country will be thrown off its pedestal. Watch | United States: Kamala Harris to become 1st women with presidential powers While most Americans may not consider voting rights to be an "urgent" issue, Harris believes that the more the administration emphasises the issue, the more people will recognise that some are "suppressing the right of the American people to vote." (With inputs from agencies)

US will be 'off the map as a role model' if voting rights law not passed: Kamala Harris

The president needed the senator from West Virginia on his side, but he wasn’t sure he needed his vice president to get him there.

It was summertime, and President Joe Biden was under immense pressure to win the support of Sen. Joe Manchin, whose decisive vote in a 50-50 chamber made him the president’s most delicate negotiating partner. Biden had invited Manchin to the Oval Office to privately make the case for his marquee domestic policy legislation. Just before Manchin arrived, he turned to Vice President Kamala Harris.

What he needed from her was not strategy or advice. He needed her to only say a quick hello, which she did before turning on her heel and leaving the room for another meeting.

The moment, described as an exchange of “brief pleasantries” by a senior White House official and confirmed by two other people who were briefed on it, was a vivid reminder of the complexity of the job held by Harris: While most presidents promise their vice presidents access and influence, at the end of the day, power and responsibility are not shared equally, and Biden does not always feel a need for input from Harris as he navigates some of his most important relationships.

In Harris’ case, she came to the job without strong ties to key senators; one person briefed on the Oval Office meeting said it would be more productive if the discussion between Biden and Manchin remained private. It is unclear that the president had much sway on his own, either, given the senator’s decision this week to break with the White House over the domestic policy bill.

But without a headlining role in some of the most critical decisions facing the White House, the vice president is caught between criticism that she is falling short and resentment among supporters who feel she is being undercut by the administration she serves. And her allies increasingly are concerned that while Biden relied on her to help him win the White House, he does not need her to govern.

“I think she was an enormous help to the ticket during the campaign,” said Mark Buell, one of Harris’ earliest fundraisers since her first race for district attorney in San Francisco. “I would like to see her employed in the same way, now that they’re implementing their objectives or goals.”

The urgency surrounding her position is tied to whether the president, who at 79 is the oldest person to hold the office, will run for reelection in 2024. He told ABC News on Wednesday that he would run again if he was in good health. But questions about Harris’ readiness for the top job are starting far earlier than is usual for an administration in its first year.

Harris declined requests for an interview, but White House officials said that her relationship with Biden is a partnership.

“The vice president has diligently worked alongside the president coordinating with partners, allies and Democratic members of the House and Senate to advance the goals of this administration,” said Sabrina Singh, Harris’ deputy press secretary.

An early front-runner whose presidential ambitions fizzled amid a dysfunctional 2020 campaign, Harris was pulled onto the Biden ticket for her policy priorities that largely mirrored his, and her ability as a Black woman to bolster support with coalitions of voters he needed to win the presidency. But according to interviews with more than two dozen White House officials, political allies, elected officials and former aides, Harris is still struggling to define herself in the Biden White House or meaningfully correct what she and her aides feel is an unfair perception that she is adrift in the job.

Faced with declining approval ratings, a series of staff departures and a drumbeat of criticism from Republicans and the conservative news media, she has turned to powerful confidantes, including Hillary Clinton, to help plot a path forward.

Harris has privately told her allies that the news coverage of her would be different if she were any of her 48 predecessors, all of whom were white and male. She also has confided in them about the difficulties she is facing with the intractable issues in her portfolio, such as voting rights and the root causes of migration. The White House has pushed back against scathing criticism on both fronts, for what activists say is a lack of attention.

“I think it’s no secret that the different things she has been asked to take on are incredibly demanding, not always well understood publicly and take a lot of work as well as a lot of skill,” Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg said in an interview. “You have to do everything except one thing, which is take credit.”

Even in the best of times, the constraints of the job often make the vice president an afterthought, and not everyone asked to serve accepts it. (“I do not propose to be buried until I am really dead and in my coffin,” Daniel Webster, a former secretary of state, said in the 1840s about declining the job.)

But the complexity of the issues she has been assigned, and the long-term solutions they require, should have prompted the West Wing to defend Harris more aggressively to the public, said Rep. Karen Bass, D-Calif., the former chairwoman of the Congressional Black Caucus.

“What the White House could’ve done is been clearer with the expectations of what was supposed to happen under her watch,” she said.

Other Democrats say their frustrations run deeper.

Harris, who spent much of her four years in the Senate running for the presidency, was at odds with Manchin after she gave a series of interviews in West Virginia that he interpreted as unwelcome infringement on his home turf. Asked about the meeting in the Oval Office over the summer, a spokeswoman for Manchin said that the senator enjoys “a friendly and respectful working relationship” with the vice president.

Rep. Henry Cuellar, a moderate from Texas and one of the more prominent voices on border issues in the Democratic Party, said his experiences with Harris’ team had been disappointing. When Cuellar heard Harris was traveling to the border in June, he had his staff call her office to offer help and advice for her visit. He never received a call back.

“I say this very respectfully to her: I moved on,” Cuellar said. “She was tasked with that job, it doesn’t look like she’s very interested in this, so we are going to move on to other folks that work on this issue.”

In the future, Cuellar said he would go straight to the West Wing with his concerns on migration rather than the vice president’s office.

Of the White House, Cuellar said, “at least they talk to you.”

Harris’ aides have pointed to her work lobbying other countries and companies to join the United States in a commitment to invest about $1.2 billion to expand digital access, climate resilience and economic opportunity in Central America. But little progress has been made on curbing corruption in the region.

On voting rights, Harris, who asked Biden if she could lead the administration’s efforts on the issue, has invited activists to the White House and delivered speeches. But her office has not developed detailed plans to work with lawmakers to make sure that two bills that would reform the system will pass Congress, according to a senior official in her office.

Since arriving in Washington, Harris has sought the counsel of other women — including Clinton, the first female Democratic presidential nominee — who have achieved historical political success to help her find a path.

“There is a double standard; it’s sadly alive and well,” Clinton said in an interview. “A lot of what is being used to judge her, just like it was to judge me, or the women who ran in 2020, or everybody else, is really colored by that.”

The two speak every few months on the phone. In November, Clinton visited Harris in her West Wing office.

Bass pointed out that the double standard goes beyond Harris’ gender.

“I know, and we all knew, that she would have a difficult time because anytime you’re a ‘first,’ you do,’” Bass said. “And to be the first woman vice president, to be the first Black, Asian woman, that’s a triple. So we knew it was going to be rough, but it has been relentless, and I think extremely unfair.”

Before her trip to Vietnam and Singapore in August, Harris called Clinton and several former female secretaries of state, including Condoleezza Rice and Madeleine Albright. She has had several private conversations with Angela Merkel, who has recounted the challenges she faced as the first female chancellor of Germany.

For this article, Harris’ office supplied dozens of examples of her work. She was sent to France to further repair frosty relations after an embarrassing diplomatic spat, a trip that the White House has hailed as a success. She has attended over 30 events focused on promoting the president’s domestic agenda, and her mark is on the final infrastructure bill on issues like clean water policy, broadband access and investments to combat wildfires. (Voting rights is another.)

The president also gave Harris credit for her interest in relieving student loan debt as he agreed Wednesday to extend a moratorium on federal loan repayments until May 1, a decision that was hailed by activists and Democratic lawmakers who have pleaded with the administration to do more.

And yet, as the White House struggles to push through major legislation, Biden has relied on his own experience — 36 years in the Senate and eight years as vice president — to try to pull the United States out of the coronavirus pandemic and deliver on a towering set of economic promises. And Harris is facing questions about where she fits into the White House’s biggest priorities.

By all accounts, she and the president have a warm relationship. In meetings, the two often play off each other, with Biden allowing her to jump in and ask questions that go beyond what he has asked for; one adviser likened it to them playing “good cop, bad cop.” Alongside the president, Harris, a former prosecutor, has quizzed economic experts and immigration officials, at times asking them to better explain their reasoning.

Still, her allies are concerned that she is sometimes treated as an afterthought.

When the president worked late hours on a Friday night last month to win approval from lawmakers for his bipartisan infrastructure plan, a White House statement said only that he was working with a group of policy and legislative aides.

The vice president’s team, surprised her name had been omitted, informed the news media that she had also been there, placing calls to lawmakers. Asked about the exclusion, a White House spokesman said the initial statement issued to the public was based on information gathered before the vice president had arrived to join Biden and his senior staff. The White House issued a statement hours later noting Harris’ presence.

In recent weeks, she has seen a string of departures from the communications office; a number of other officials departed earlier this year.

Gil Duran, who worked for Harris when she was California attorney general in 2013, said she could be insulting and unprofessional. Duran said he quit after five months on the job when Harris declined to attend a briefing before a news conference, but then berated a staff member to the point of tears when she felt unprepared.

“A lot of us would still be with her if she was the Kamala Harris we thought she would be,” Duran said.

The White House had no comment when asked about the episode.

Aware of the criticism of her, Harris has been focused on promoting her own agenda in a series of interviews and appearances.

But Bass said the immediate challenge was the midterm elections next year, when Republicans could take back control of the House.

As for Harris’ presidential ambitions?

“I think she is the front-runner,” Bass said. “I think she’ll be the front-runner.”

The president needed the senator from West Virginia on his side, but he wasn’t sure he needed his vice president to get him there. It was summertime, and President Joe Biden was under immense pressure to win the support of Sen.

The president needed the senator from West Virginia on his side, but he wasn’t sure he needed his vice president to get him there. It was summertime, and President Joe Biden was under immense pressure to win the support of Sen. Joe Manchin, whose decisive vote in a 50-50 chamber made him the president’s most delicate negotiating partner. Biden had invited Manchin to the Oval Office to privately make the case for his marquee domestic policy legislation. Just before Manchin arrived, he turned to Vice President Kamala Harris. What he needed from her was not strategy or advice. He needed her to only say a quick hello, which she did before turning on her heel and leaving the room for another meeting. The moment, described as an exchange of “brief pleasantries” by a senior White House official and confirmed by two other people who were briefed on it, was a vivid reminder of the complexity of the job held by Harris: While most presidents promise their vice presidents access and influence, at the end of the day, power and responsibility are not shared equally, and Biden does not always feel a need for input from Harris as he navigates some of his most important relationships. In Harris’ case, she came to the job without strong ties to key senators; one person briefed on the Oval Office meeting said it would be more productive if the discussion between Biden and Manchin remained private. It is unclear that the president had much sway on his own, either, given the senator’s decision this week to break with the White House over the domestic policy bill. But without a headlining role in some of the most critical decisions facing the White House, the vice president is caught between criticism that she is falling short and resentment among supporters who feel she is being undercut by the administration she serves. And her allies increasingly are concerned that while Biden relied on her to help him win the White House, he does not need her to govern. “I think she was an enormous help to the ticket during the campaign,” said Mark Buell, one of Harris’ earliest fundraisers since her first race for district attorney in San Francisco. “I would like to see her employed in the same way, now that they’re implementing their objectives or goals.” The urgency surrounding her position is tied to whether the president, who at 79 is the oldest person to hold the office, will run for reelection in 2024. He told ABC News on Wednesday that he would run again if he was in good health. But questions about Harris’ readiness for the top job are starting far earlier than is usual for an administration in its first year. Harris declined requests for an interview, but White House officials said that her relationship with Biden is a partnership. “The vice president has diligently worked alongside the president coordinating with partners, allies and Democratic members of the House and Senate to advance the goals of this administration,” said Sabrina Singh, Harris’ deputy press secretary. An early front-runner whose presidential ambitions fizzled amid a dysfunctional 2020 campaign, Harris was pulled onto the Biden ticket for her policy priorities that largely mirrored his, and her ability as a Black woman to bolster support with coalitions of voters he needed to win the presidency. But according to interviews with more than two dozen White House officials, political allies, elected officials and former aides, Harris is still struggling to define herself in the Biden White House or meaningfully correct what she and her aides feel is an unfair perception that she is adrift in the job. Faced with declining approval ratings, a series of staff departures and a drumbeat of criticism from Republicans and the conservative news media, she has turned to powerful confidantes, including Hillary Clinton, to help plot a path forward. Harris has privately told her allies that the news coverage of her would be different if she were any of her 48 predecessors, all of whom were white and male. She also has confided in them about the difficulties she is facing with the intractable issues in her portfolio, such as voting rights and the root causes of migration. The White House has pushed back against scathing criticism on both fronts, for what activists say is a lack of attention. “I think it’s no secret that the different things she has been asked to take on are incredibly demanding, not always well understood publicly and take a lot of work as well as a lot of skill,” Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg said in an interview. “You have to do everything except one thing, which is take credit.” Even in the best of times, the constraints of the job often make the vice president an afterthought, and not everyone asked to serve accepts it. (“I do not propose to be buried until I am really dead and in my coffin,” Daniel Webster, a former secretary of state, said in the 1840s about declining the job.) But the complexity of the issues she has been assigned, and the long-term solutions they require, should have prompted the West Wing to defend Harris more aggressively to the public, said Rep. Karen Bass, D-Calif., the former chairwoman of the Congressional Black Caucus. “What the White House could’ve done is been clearer with the expectations of what was supposed to happen under her watch,” she said. Other Democrats say their frustrations run deeper. Harris, who spent much of her four years in the Senate running for the presidency, was at odds with Manchin after she gave a series of interviews in West Virginia that he interpreted as unwelcome infringement on his home turf. Asked about the meeting in the Oval Office over the summer, a spokeswoman for Manchin said that the senator enjoys “a friendly and respectful working relationship” with the vice president. Rep. Henry Cuellar, a moderate from Texas and one of the more prominent voices on border issues in the Democratic Party, said his experiences with Harris’ team had been disappointing. When Cuellar heard Harris was traveling to the border in June, he had his staff call her office to offer help and advice for her visit. He never received a call back. “I say this very respectfully to her: I moved on,” Cuellar said. “She was tasked with that job, it doesn’t look like she’s very interested in this, so we are going to move on to other folks that work on this issue.” In the future, Cuellar said he would go straight to the West Wing with his concerns on migration rather than the vice president’s office. Of the White House, Cuellar said, “at least they talk to you.” Harris’ aides have pointed to her work lobbying other countries and companies to join the United States in a commitment to invest about $1.2 billion to expand digital access, climate resilience and economic opportunity in Central America. But little progress has been made on curbing corruption in the region. On voting rights, Harris, who asked Biden if she could lead the administration’s efforts on the issue, has invited activists to the White House and delivered speeches. But her office has not developed detailed plans to work with lawmakers to make sure that two bills that would reform the system will pass Congress, according to a senior official in her office. Since arriving in Washington, Harris has sought the counsel of other women — including Clinton, the first female Democratic presidential nominee — who have achieved historical political success to help her find a path. “There is a double standard; it’s sadly alive and well,” Clinton said in an interview. “A lot of what is being used to judge her, just like it was to judge me, or the women who ran in 2020, or everybody else, is really colored by that.” The two speak every few months on the phone. In November, Clinton visited Harris in her West Wing office. Bass pointed out that the double standard goes beyond Harris’ gender. “I know, and we all knew, that she would have a difficult time because anytime you’re a ‘first,’ you do,’” Bass said. “And to be the first woman vice president, to be the first Black, Asian woman, that’s a triple. So we knew it was going to be rough, but it has been relentless, and I think extremely unfair.” Before her trip to Vietnam and Singapore in August, Harris called Clinton and several former female secretaries of state, including Condoleezza Rice and Madeleine Albright. She has had several private conversations with Angela Merkel, who has recounted the challenges she faced as the first female chancellor of Germany. For this article, Harris’ office supplied dozens of examples of her work. She was sent to France to further repair frosty relations after an embarrassing diplomatic spat, a trip that the White House has hailed as a success. She has attended over 30 events focused on promoting the president’s domestic agenda, and her mark is on the final infrastructure bill on issues like clean water policy, broadband access and investments to combat wildfires. (Voting rights is another.) The president also gave Harris credit for her interest in relieving student loan debt as he agreed Wednesday to extend a moratorium on federal loan repayments until May 1, a decision that was hailed by activists and Democratic lawmakers who have pleaded with the administration to do more. And yet, as the White House struggles to push through major legislation, Biden has relied on his own experience — 36 years in the Senate and eight years as vice president — to try to pull the United States out of the coronavirus pandemic and deliver on a towering set of economic promises. And Harris is facing questions about where she fits into the White House’s biggest priorities. By all accounts, she and the president have a warm relationship. In meetings, the two often play off each other, with Biden allowing her to jump in and ask questions that go beyond what he has asked for; one adviser likened it to them playing “good cop, bad cop.” Alongside the president, Harris, a former prosecutor, has quizzed economic experts and immigration officials, at times asking them to better explain their reasoning. Still, her allies are concerned that she is sometimes treated as an afterthought. When the president worked late hours on a Friday night last month to win approval from lawmakers for his bipartisan infrastructure plan, a White House statement said only that he was working with a group of policy and legislative aides. The vice president’s team, surprised her name had been omitted, informed the news media that she had also been there, placing calls to lawmakers. Asked about the exclusion, a White House spokesman said the initial statement issued to the public was based on information gathered before the vice president had arrived to join Biden and his senior staff. The White House issued a statement hours later noting Harris’ presence. In recent weeks, she has seen a string of departures from the communications office; a number of other officials departed earlier this year. Gil Duran, who worked for Harris when she was California attorney general in 2013, said she could be insulting and unprofessional. Duran said he quit after five months on the job when Harris declined to attend a briefing before a news conference, but then berated a staff member to the point of tears when she felt unprepared. “A lot of us would still be with her if she was the Kamala Harris we thought she would be,” Duran said. The White House had no comment when asked about the episode. Aware of the criticism of her, Harris has been focused on promoting her own agenda in a series of interviews and appearances. But Bass said the immediate challenge was the midterm elections next year, when Republicans could take back control of the House. As for Harris’ presidential ambitions? “I think she is the front-runner,” Bass said. “I think she’ll be the front-runner.”

Heir apparent or afterthought? The frustrations of Kamala Harris.

United States President Joe Biden has said that he will run in 2024 re-election if he is in good health.

During an interview on ABC's World News Tonight, when host David Muir asked him whether he still intends to run for re-election, Biden said ''Yes.''

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''I'm a great respecter of fate. Fate has intervened in my life many, many times. If I'm in the health I'm in now, if I'm in good health, then, in fact, I would run again," Biden said.

"Why would I not run against Donald Trump if were the nominee? That would increase the prospect of running," he added.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/supreme-court-to-hold-special-hearing-on-biden-vaccine-mandates-439301">Also read |&nbsp;Supreme Court to hold special hearing on Biden vaccine mandates</a>

It comes after US Vice President Kamala Harris said she has not discussed about running again in 2024 with Biden.

Muir also questioned Biden about the massive surge in Omicron variant of coronavirus and asked him "How do we get it wrong?".

Biden said "Nobody saw it coming. I don't think anybody anticipated that this was going to be as rapidly spreading as it did.''

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/gaffe-prone-us-president-joe-biden-now-confuses-six-day-war-with-yom-kippur-battle-433691">Also read |&nbsp;Gaffe-prone US President Joe Biden now confuses Six-Day War with Yom Kippur battle</a>

The 79-year-old underwent an extensive, routine check-up last month during which his powers were briefly transferred to Harris.

According to a detailed report by the White House, Biden had "perceptibly stiffer and less fluid" motion while walking than a year ago, and suffered "increasing frequency and severity of 'throat clearing' and coughing during public speaking engagements."

However, these two symptoms were not considered of immediate concern and did not appear to result from serious conditions as per his physician Kevin O'Connor.

Biden was vaccinated early on against Covid-19 and received a booster shot in September.

He pledged before his election a year ago to be "totally transparent" with voters about all aspects of his health.

Biden is the oldest person to hold the presidency in US history. He does not smoke or drink, and prior to his election worked out at least five days per week, according to a letter released by his election campaign in December 2019. 
&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

United States President Joe Biden has said that he will run in 2024 re-election if he is in good health. During an interview on ABC's World News Tonight, when host David Muir asked him whether he still intends to run for re-election, Biden said ''Yes.

United States President Joe Biden has said that he will run in 2024 re-election if he is in good health. During an interview on ABC's World News Tonight, when host David Muir asked him whether he still intends to run for re-election, Biden said ''Yes.'' ''I'm a great respecter of fate. Fate has intervened in my life many, many times. If I'm in the health I'm in now, if I'm in good health, then, in fact, I would run again," Biden said. "Why would I not run against Donald Trump if were the nominee? That would increase the prospect of running," he added. Also read | Supreme Court to hold special hearing on Biden vaccine mandates It comes after US Vice President Kamala Harris said she has not discussed about running again in 2024 with Biden. Muir also questioned Biden about the massive surge in Omicron variant of coronavirus and asked him "How do we get it wrong?". Biden said "Nobody saw it coming. I don't think anybody anticipated that this was going to be as rapidly spreading as it did.'' Also read | Gaffe-prone US President Joe Biden now confuses Six-Day War with Yom Kippur battle The 79-year-old underwent an extensive, routine check-up last month during which his powers were briefly transferred to Harris. According to a detailed report by the White House, Biden had "perceptibly stiffer and less fluid" motion while walking than a year ago, and suffered "increasing frequency and severity of 'throat clearing' and coughing during public speaking engagements." However, these two symptoms were not considered of immediate concern and did not appear to result from serious conditions as per his physician Kevin O'Connor. Biden was vaccinated early on against Covid-19 and received a booster shot in September. He pledged before his election a year ago to be "totally transparent" with voters about all aspects of his health. Biden is the oldest person to hold the presidency in US history. He does not smoke or drink, and prior to his election worked out at least five days per week, according to a letter released by his election campaign in December 2019. (With inputs from agencies)

US election 2024: President Joe Biden says he will run again if in good health

Gaffe-prone US President Joe Biden has done it again. This time, while delivering a speech at South Carolina State University during its 2021 Fall commencement ceremony, Biden referred to US Vice President Kamala Harris as “President Harris”. &nbsp;

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Ice Cream Brain just said “President Harris.” 
 
😂😂😂😂🤦‍♂️ <a href="https://t.co/VUijnvdWhu">pic.twitter.com/VUijnvdWhu</a>
— Politics 2.0 (@magapolitics2) <a href="https://twitter.com/magapolitics2/status/1471885577469534213?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 17, 2021</a></blockquote>
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The US President said, “… all kidding aside, of course, President Harris, who’s a proud Howard alumn, she might have something to say about Delaware State.” &nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/biden-pays-respects-on-first-wife-daughters-graves-on-crashs-49th-anniversary-438161" hreflang="en">Biden pays respects on first wife, daughter’s graves on crash’s 49th anniversary</a>

The video of Biden’s speech has gone viral and “President Harris” was also trending on Twitter. Numerous comments, memes and posts have been made over the remark. &nbsp;

Some users mocked Biden while some praised Kamala Harris while others made speculations over 2024 election.

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When nominee Barack Obama selected Joe Biden as his vice president, he introduced him in Springfield, IL as "President Biden." 
 
It wasn't a mistake; it was foretelling. As is "President Harris."<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/PresidentHarris?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#PresidentHarris</a> <a href="https://t.co/cqFYahB84v">pic.twitter.com/cqFYahB84v</a>
— Aarshin Karande (@AarshinKarande) <a href="https://twitter.com/AarshinKarande/status/1471963509810348033?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 17, 2021</a></blockquote>
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Biden has made the mistake of referring Harris as the president in the past too. He had also made many other mistakes while speaking on different occasions. &nbsp;

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President Harris? <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Joebiden?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Joebiden</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/PresidentHarris?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#PresidentHarris</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/KamalaHarris?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#KamalaHarris</a> <a href="https://t.co/Okdna27hCC">pic.twitter.com/Okdna27hCC</a>
— Scoop (@TimScoop) <a href="https://twitter.com/TimScoop/status/1471930580035981312?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 17, 2021</a></blockquote>
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The president had mistakenly said that he is going to celebrate his ‘58th’ birthday while it was his ‘79th' on November 20 this year. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/in-fitting-reply-billionaire-elon-musk-announces-to-pay-over-11-bn-in-taxes-this-year-438306" hreflang="en">In fitting reply, billionaire Elon Musk announces to pay over $11 bn in taxes this year</a>

During a menorah lighting celebration at White House for Hanukkah, the president appeared to forget Arab–Israeli history as he got confused between 1967 Six-Day War and Yom Kippur War of 1973. &nbsp;

Not just this, he had also appeared to mistake Syria for Libya at a news conference after G7 summit in the UK some months ago. &nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies) &nbsp;&nbsp;

Gaffe-prone US President Joe Biden has done it again. This time, while delivering a speech at South Carolina State University during its 2021 Fall commencement ceremony, Biden referred to US Vice President Kamala Harris as “President Harris”.

Gaffe-prone US President Joe Biden has done it again. This time, while delivering a speech at South Carolina State University during its 2021 Fall commencement ceremony, Biden referred to US Vice President Kamala Harris as “President Harris”. Ice Cream Brain just said “President Harris.” 😂😂😂😂🤦‍♂️ pic.twitter.com/VUijnvdWhu — Politics 2.0 (@magapolitics2) December 17, 2021 × The US President said, “… all kidding aside, of course, President Harris, who’s a proud Howard alumn, she might have something to say about Delaware State.” Also Read: Biden pays respects on first wife, daughter’s graves on crash’s 49th anniversary The video of Biden’s speech has gone viral and “President Harris” was also trending on Twitter. Numerous comments, memes and posts have been made over the remark. Some users mocked Biden while some praised Kamala Harris while others made speculations over 2024 election. When nominee Barack Obama selected Joe Biden as his vice president, he introduced him in Springfield, IL as "President Biden." It wasn't a mistake; it was foretelling. As is "President Harris."#PresidentHarris pic.twitter.com/cqFYahB84v — Aarshin Karande (@AarshinKarande) December 17, 2021 × Biden has made the mistake of referring Harris as the president in the past too. He had also made many other mistakes while speaking on different occasions. President Harris? #Joebiden #PresidentHarris #KamalaHarris pic.twitter.com/Okdna27hCC — Scoop (@TimScoop) December 17, 2021 × The president had mistakenly said that he is going to celebrate his ‘58th’ birthday while it was his ‘79th' on November 20 this year. Also Read: In fitting reply, billionaire Elon Musk announces to pay over $11 bn in taxes this year During a menorah lighting celebration at White House for Hanukkah, the president appeared to forget Arab–Israeli history as he got confused between 1967 Six-Day War and Yom Kippur War of 1973. Not just this, he had also appeared to mistake Syria for Libya at a news conference after G7 summit in the UK some months ago. (With inputs from agencies)

Watch: In new gaffe, US President Joe Biden calls Kamala Harris as ‘President Harris’

US Vice President Kamala Harris has acknowledged that the Biden administration couldn’t anticipate the emergence of variants like Omicron and Delta.

Speaking to Los Angeles Times newspaper on the Covid situation in the country, Harris on Friday said, “We didn't see Delta coming…We didn't see Omicron coming. And that's the nature of what this, this awful virus has been, which as it turns out, has mutations and variants.”

Harris added that despite relying on scientists and experts, the US government could not foresee and prepare&nbsp;to tackle the virus.

“I think most scientists did not - upon whose advice and direction we have relied —didn't see Delta coming,” she said.

The comment from Harris comes as New York City reported 21,027 new COVID-19 cases in a single day on Friday, the highest the state has ever recorded.

President Joe Biden has warned of a “winter of severe illness and death” for the unvaccinated, as the Omicron variant fuels new cases in the United States.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/no-evidence-to-suggest-new-variant-omicron-less-severe-than-delta-reveals-uk-study-437843">No evidence to suggest new variant Omicron less severe than Delta, reveals UK study</a>

The Center for Disease Control and Prevention&nbsp;has predicted that COVID-19 cases and deaths will increase in the US over the next month, with its latest model projecting more than 40,000 deaths by January 8.

Scientists have remained uncertain as to how dangerous the highly mutated Omicron variant is, but early data suggests it can be more resistant to vaccines and is more transmissible than the Delta variant.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/amid-threat-of-omicron-wave-americans-rush-to-get-covid-19-boosters-437648" hreflang="en">Amid threat of Omicron wave, Americans rush to get COVID-19 boosters</a>

The warning particularly holds true for the United Kingdon, which has been reporting a record number of cases in the past three days.

More than 88,000 Covid-19 infections were detected on Friday in a second consecutive record daily number in a country where over 69% of its population is fully vaccinated.

(With inputs from agencies)

US Vice President Kamala Harris has acknowledged that the Biden administration couldn’t anticipate the emergence of variants like Omicron and Delta. Speaking to Los Angeles Times newspaper on the Covid situation in the country, Harris on Friday said, “We didn't see Delta coming…We didn't see Omicron coming.

US Vice President Kamala Harris has acknowledged that the Biden administration couldn’t anticipate the emergence of variants like Omicron and Delta. Speaking to Los Angeles Times newspaper on the Covid situation in the country, Harris on Friday said, “We didn't see Delta coming…We didn't see Omicron coming. And that's the nature of what this, this awful virus has been, which as it turns out, has mutations and variants.” Harris added that despite relying on scientists and experts, the US government could not foresee and prepare to tackle the virus. “I think most scientists did not - upon whose advice and direction we have relied —didn't see Delta coming,” she said. The comment from Harris comes as New York City reported 21,027 new COVID-19 cases in a single day on Friday, the highest the state has ever recorded. President Joe Biden has warned of a “winter of severe illness and death” for the unvaccinated, as the Omicron variant fuels new cases in the United States. Also read | No evidence to suggest new variant Omicron less severe than Delta, reveals UK study The Center for Disease Control and Prevention has predicted that COVID-19 cases and deaths will increase in the US over the next month, with its latest model projecting more than 40,000 deaths by January 8. Scientists have remained uncertain as to how dangerous the highly mutated Omicron variant is, but early data suggests it can be more resistant to vaccines and is more transmissible than the Delta variant. Also read | Amid threat of Omicron wave, Americans rush to get COVID-19 boosters The warning particularly holds true for the United Kingdon, which has been reporting a record number of cases in the past three days. More than 88,000 Covid-19 infections were detected on Friday in a second consecutive record daily number in a country where over 69% of its population is fully vaccinated. (With inputs from agencies)

US Vice President Kamala Harris admits Biden admin ‘failed to see Omicron variant coming’

US Vice President Kamala Harris has decided to keep ignoring the 'ridiculous' headlines being posted about her in the western media.<o:p></o:p>

Harris had been recently criticised for reportedly spending more than $500 on cookware while on a trip to Paris in November 2021. She had visited a high-end Parisian culinary shop while she was on a four-day visit to France in November with the aim to mend French and American relations.

<o:p>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/technology/kamala-harris-never-uses-bluetooth-headphones-heres-why-435718">Kamala Harris never uses bluetooth headphones. Here's why</a></o:p>

"Oh, how about, 'She's going to buy a pot on her way to the airport​,' after a very significant and highly successful bilateral meeting in France on issues that are about national security, on issues that are about climate, on issues that are about what we are doing in terms of international norms and rules on everything from cyber to space. Come on​," she said.&nbsp;​​<o:p></o:p>

Harris had reportedly bought a $367 copper and stainless steel serving dish, a $160&nbsp;copper, stainless steel frying pan, porcelain cocotte and egg dish, a copper cleaner and various wooden spoons.&nbsp;Her total bill amount came out something near $578, as per local reports. She had told reporters that the cookware will be used in one of her Thanksgiving dinners.

<o:p>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/kamala-harris-a-bully-inflicts-soul-destroying-criticism-ex-aides-434795">Kamala Harris a 'bully', inflicts soul destroying criticism: Ex-aides</a></o:p>

Since then, Harris had to read some strongly-worded headlines against her shopping spree. The Vice President, however, believes that these are simply petty moves to drag people’s attention away from the important work that she is doing in the Biden administration.<o:p></o:p>

She also addressed headlines in which she had been labelled as a "bully". Brushing off these headlines as "ridiculous", she said this is all a part of being one of the top high-profile targets in the ruling government.<o:p></o:p>

"There is nothing about this job that is supposed to be easy," Harris&nbsp;told the San Francisco Chronicle​ in an interview published on Sunday​. "If something is coming to me, it’s because it needs to be addressed and because, by definition, it’s not going to be easy. If it was easy, it would have been handled before it comes to me."<o:p></o:p>

US Vice President Kamala Harris has decided to keep ignoring the 'ridiculous' headlines being posted about her in the western media. Harris had been recently criticised for reportedly spending more than $500 on cookware while on a trip to Paris in November 2021.

US Vice President Kamala Harris has decided to keep ignoring the 'ridiculous' headlines being posted about her in the western media. Harris had been recently criticised for reportedly spending more than $500 on cookware while on a trip to Paris in November 2021. She had visited a high-end Parisian culinary shop while she was on a four-day visit to France in November with the aim to mend French and American relations. Also read | Kamala Harris never uses bluetooth headphones. Here's why "Oh, how about, 'She's going to buy a pot on her way to the airport,' after a very significant and highly successful bilateral meeting in France on issues that are about national security, on issues that are about climate, on issues that are about what we are doing in terms of international norms and rules on everything from cyber to space. Come on," she said. Harris had reportedly bought a $367 copper and stainless steel serving dish, a $160 copper, stainless steel frying pan, porcelain cocotte and egg dish, a copper cleaner and various wooden spoons. Her total bill amount came out something near $578, as per local reports. She had told reporters that the cookware will be used in one of her Thanksgiving dinners. Also read | Kamala Harris a 'bully', inflicts soul destroying criticism: Ex-aides Since then, Harris had to read some strongly-worded headlines against her shopping spree. The Vice President, however, believes that these are simply petty moves to drag people’s attention away from the important work that she is doing in the Biden administration. She also addressed headlines in which she had been labelled as a "bully". Brushing off these headlines as "ridiculous", she said this is all a part of being one of the top high-profile targets in the ruling government. "There is nothing about this job that is supposed to be easy," Harris told the San Francisco Chronicle in an interview published on Sunday. "If something is coming to me, it’s because it needs to be addressed and because, by definition, it’s not going to be easy. If it was easy, it would have been handled before it comes to me."

'Oh come on': Kamala Harris reacts to 'ridiculous' headlines against her expensive cookware

Kamala Harris, the United States' vice president, does not wear Bluetooth headphones.

You may recall the "we did it, Joe" call, in which the US Vice President congratulated Joe Biden on his victory in the 2020 US Presidential Elections.

Harris is seen clutching her phone in one hand and a pair of wired earphones in the other during the call.

Harris has been observed wearing wired earphones on multiple occasions, leading many to ask what the US Vice President has against wireless headphones.

Harris, it turns out, dislikes them because she is highly cautious when it comes to security and technology.&nbsp;

According to Politico, Harris is suspicious of Bluetooth headphones and prefers corded headphones.

This is due to the fact that wired headphones are safer, whereas Bluetooth headphones can provide hackers with access. 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/vice-president-kamala-harris-becomes-us-president-for-a-brief-period-430604">Also read | Vice President Kamala Harris becomes US president for a 'brief period'</a>

Bluetooth connections, according to multiple investigations, can be exploited.

A Bluetooth connection can be hacked, allowing cybercriminals to take control of the device.

They can even put malware or spyware on your device to spy on you.&nbsp;

According to reports, Bluetooth has been used by cybersecurity researchers to exploit security flaws in some phones. 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/kamala-harris-brushes-aside-reports-of-tensions-with-biden-administration-says-excited-about-the-work-430540">Also Read:&nbsp;Kamala Harris brushes aside reports of tensions with Biden administration</a>

They then extracted data, including business credentials, from the system.&nbsp;

According to many academics and other journalists, Harris' fears about the security hazards posed by Bluetooth technology were well-founded.&nbsp;

Given the political and security risks, Harris is probably wise to turn off her Bluetooth connection. 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/eye-on-china-kamala-harris-vows-us-will-pursue-a-free-and-open-indo-pacific-407925">Also Read |&nbsp; Eye on China: Kamala Harris vows US will pursue a free and open Indo-Pacific</a>

A person's vulnerability is proportional to the value of their data.

Those who retain their business and personal data on the same device, however, should use caution.

(With inputs from agencies)

Kamala Harris, the United States' vice president, does not wear Bluetooth headphones. You may recall the "we did it, Joe" call, in which the US Vice President congratulated Joe Biden on his victory in the 2020 US Presidential Elections.

Kamala Harris, the United States' vice president, does not wear Bluetooth headphones. You may recall the "we did it, Joe" call, in which the US Vice President congratulated Joe Biden on his victory in the 2020 US Presidential Elections. Harris is seen clutching her phone in one hand and a pair of wired earphones in the other during the call. Harris has been observed wearing wired earphones on multiple occasions, leading many to ask what the US Vice President has against wireless headphones. Harris, it turns out, dislikes them because she is highly cautious when it comes to security and technology. According to Politico, Harris is suspicious of Bluetooth headphones and prefers corded headphones. This is due to the fact that wired headphones are safer, whereas Bluetooth headphones can provide hackers with access. Also read | Vice President Kamala Harris becomes US president for a 'brief period' Bluetooth connections, according to multiple investigations, can be exploited. A Bluetooth connection can be hacked, allowing cybercriminals to take control of the device. They can even put malware or spyware on your device to spy on you. According to reports, Bluetooth has been used by cybersecurity researchers to exploit security flaws in some phones. Also Read: Kamala Harris brushes aside reports of tensions with Biden administration They then extracted data, including business credentials, from the system. According to many academics and other journalists, Harris' fears about the security hazards posed by Bluetooth technology were well-founded. Given the political and security risks, Harris is probably wise to turn off her Bluetooth connection. Also Read | Eye on China: Kamala Harris vows US will pursue a free and open Indo-Pacific A person's vulnerability is proportional to the value of their data. Those who retain their business and personal data on the same device, however, should use caution. (With inputs from agencies)

Kamala Harris never uses bluetooth headphones. Here's why

Former employees have described US Vice President Kamala Harris as a "bully" who subjected them to "continuous soul-destroying criticism."

According to former aides, the US vice president has a history of "burning through employees."

Her managerial style, according to one former staff member who was supportive of her, is similar to Donald Trump's.

Ms Harris, he said, would "have a programme called The Apprentice" if she were a male.

The stunning charges emerged after the Washington Post conducted an extensive investigation of Ms Harris's career as a prosecutor and politician, which included interviews with 18 former aides.&nbsp;

Watch | Kamala Harris' chief spokesperson and senior advisor steps down

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The article also claims that she would neglect to read briefings that had been prepared for her, only to turn them off if she was afterwards chastised for being unprepared.

The allegations were made public in the wake of the verified resignations of two high-ranking Harris employees, as well as two more who are said to be on their way out.&nbsp;

A former colleague told the Washington Post that it's clear that you're not working with somebody who is willing to do the prep and the work.

"With Kamala, you have to put up with a constant amount of soul-destroying criticism and also her own lack of confidence."

"So you're constantly sort of propping up a bully and it's not really clear why," Harris's staffer said, as per the report.

(With inputs from agencies)

Former employees have described US Vice President Kamala Harris as a "bully" who subjected them to "continuous soul-destroying criticism." According to former aides, the US vice president has a history of "burning through employees.

Former employees have described US Vice President Kamala Harris as a "bully" who subjected them to "continuous soul-destroying criticism." According to former aides, the US vice president has a history of "burning through employees." Her managerial style, according to one former staff member who was supportive of her, is similar to Donald Trump's. Ms Harris, he said, would "have a programme called The Apprentice" if she were a male. The stunning charges emerged after the Washington Post conducted an extensive investigation of Ms Harris's career as a prosecutor and politician, which included interviews with 18 former aides. Watch | Kamala Harris' chief spokesperson and senior advisor steps down The article also claims that she would neglect to read briefings that had been prepared for her, only to turn them off if she was afterwards chastised for being unprepared. The allegations were made public in the wake of the verified resignations of two high-ranking Harris employees, as well as two more who are said to be on their way out. A former colleague told the Washington Post that it's clear that you're not working with somebody who is willing to do the prep and the work. "With Kamala, you have to put up with a constant amount of soul-destroying criticism and also her own lack of confidence." "So you're constantly sort of propping up a bully and it's not really clear why," Harris's staffer said, as per the report. (With inputs from agencies)

Kamala Harris a 'bully', inflicts soul destroying criticism: Ex-aides

The US Vice President Kamala Harris has lost two of her aides in the last two weeks, first her communications director Ashley Etienne and secondly her chief spokesperson and senior advisor Symone Sanders.

Kamala Harris' chief spokesperson and senior advisor steps down

US Vice President Kamala Harris and second gentleman Doug Emhoff have become the first couple to affix a mezuzah on executive home.

Emhoff took to Twitter to share pictures and wrote ''One of my favorite memories was when our family visited and together, we hung a mezuzah on the front door of the Vice President's Residence.''

A mezuzah is a piece of parchment called a klaf contained in a decorative case and inscribed with specific Hebrew verses from the Torah.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/vice-president-kamala-harris-becomes-us-president-for-a-brief-period-430604">Also read |&nbsp;Vice President Kamala Harris becomes US president for a 'brief period'</a>

It is attached in a case to the doorpost of a Jewish house as a sign of faith. Emhoff is the first Jew to reside in the vice presidential residence.

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In picture:&nbsp;Doug Emhoff can&nbsp;seen using a hammer to affix a mezuzah on the house of the second family/Twitter

According to Rabbi Peter Berg of Hebrew Benevolent Congregation (The Temple) in Atlanta, ''It's an extraordinary moment in United States history.''

''And it was one of the great honors of my lifetime to be able to stand there with the second family as they placed that mezuzah on their home for the very first time.''

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/underwater-polls-suggest-kamala-harris-least-popular-vice-president-since-1970s-402209">Also read |&nbsp;'Underwater': Polls suggest Kamala Harris least popular Vice President since 1970s</a>

Meanwhile, a White House official said ''He obviously recognizes the significance of being the first in this space and I think he's very honored to have the opportunity to help lead some of these really important and significant traditions.''

US President Joe Biden had briefly transferred power to Harris on Friday as he underwent a colonoscopy, making her the first woman to hold the presidential reins in American history.

Harris is the first woman to serve as vice president of the United States; no woman has ever been president in the country's nearly 250-year history.

(With inputs from agencies)

US Vice President Kamala Harris and second gentleman Doug Emhoff have become the first couple to affix a mezuzah on executive home. Emhoff took to Twitter to share pictures and wrote ''One of my favorite memories was when our family visited and together, we hung a mezuzah on the front door of the Vice President's Residence.

US Vice President Kamala Harris and second gentleman Doug Emhoff have become the first couple to affix a mezuzah on executive home. Emhoff took to Twitter to share pictures and wrote ''One of my favorite memories was when our family visited and together, we hung a mezuzah on the front door of the Vice President's Residence.'' A mezuzah is a piece of parchment called a klaf contained in a decorative case and inscribed with specific Hebrew verses from the Torah. Also read | Vice President Kamala Harris becomes US president for a 'brief period' It is attached in a case to the doorpost of a Jewish house as a sign of faith. Emhoff is the first Jew to reside in the vice presidential residence. In picture: Doug Emhoff can seen using a hammer to affix a mezuzah on the house of the second family/Twitter According to Rabbi Peter Berg of Hebrew Benevolent Congregation (The Temple) in Atlanta, ''It's an extraordinary moment in United States history.'' ''And it was one of the great honors of my lifetime to be able to stand there with the second family as they placed that mezuzah on their home for the very first time.'' Also read | 'Underwater': Polls suggest Kamala Harris least popular Vice President since 1970s Meanwhile, a White House official said ''He obviously recognizes the significance of being the first in this space and I think he's very honored to have the opportunity to help lead some of these really important and significant traditions.'' US President Joe Biden had briefly transferred power to Harris on Friday as he underwent a colonoscopy, making her the first woman to hold the presidential reins in American history. Harris is the first woman to serve as vice president of the United States; no woman has ever been president in the country's nearly 250-year history. (With inputs from agencies)

Kamala Harris and her husband Doug Emhoff become first family to hang mezuzah on executive home

In the United States, history is being made, Kamala Harris is going to become 1st woman to assume presidential powers after Biden transfers power to her briefly when he is under anesthesia.

United States: Kamala Harris to become 1st women with presidential powers

The White House announced on Friday&nbsp;that President Biden will "transfer power to the vice president for the brief period of time when he is under anaesthesia."

Kamala Harris, 57, became&nbsp;the first woman president of the United States for a short time as&nbsp;the US president underwent&nbsp;his annual physical test.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/kamala-harris-brushes-aside-reports-of-tensions-with-biden-administration-says-excited-about-the-work-430540">Also Read:&nbsp;Kamala Harris brushes aside reports of tensions with Biden administration</a>

President Biden was&nbsp;under anaesthesia for colonoscopy. Harris worked&nbsp;from the West Wing of the White House as Biden was being&nbsp;checked by doctors at the Walter Reed Medical Center.

The White House said Kamala Harris held the presidency for 1 hour and 25 minutes.

As is the convention, Harris was&nbsp;given control of the government including the armed forces and the nuclear weapons. The US vice-president had run for president's post during the nomination process in the US elections but had pulled out later after failing to garner enough votes. Biden had then picked her as his running mate.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/eye-on-china-kamala-harris-vows-us-will-pursue-a-free-and-open-indo-pacific-407925">Also Read |&nbsp; Eye on China: Kamala Harris vows US will pursue a free and open Indo-Pacific</a>

According to White House spokesman Jen Psaki former president George W. Bush had undergone the same procedure in 2002 and 2007 and had&nbsp;also carried out a similar transfer of power.

After he gets back from the hospital, Biden is due to participate in the annual tradition of issuing a presidential "pardon" to a turkey who will be spared from the traditional Thanksgiving meal next week.

Biden's health report is due to be released by officials on Friday afternoon.

(With inputs from Agencies)

The White House announced on Friday that President Biden will "transfer power to the vice president for the brief period of time when he is under anaesthesia." Kamala Harris, 57, became the first woman president of the United States for a short time as the US president underwent his annual physical test.

The White House announced on Friday that President Biden will "transfer power to the vice president for the brief period of time when he is under anaesthesia." Kamala Harris, 57, became the first woman president of the United States for a short time as the US president underwent his annual physical test. Also Read: Kamala Harris brushes aside reports of tensions with Biden administration President Biden was under anaesthesia for colonoscopy. Harris worked from the West Wing of the White House as Biden was being checked by doctors at the Walter Reed Medical Center. The White House said Kamala Harris held the presidency for 1 hour and 25 minutes. As is the convention, Harris was given control of the government including the armed forces and the nuclear weapons. The US vice-president had run for president's post during the nomination process in the US elections but had pulled out later after failing to garner enough votes. Biden had then picked her as his running mate. Also Read | Eye on China: Kamala Harris vows US will pursue a free and open Indo-Pacific According to White House spokesman Jen Psaki former president George W. Bush had undergone the same procedure in 2002 and 2007 and had also carried out a similar transfer of power. After he gets back from the hospital, Biden is due to participate in the annual tradition of issuing a presidential "pardon" to a turkey who will be spared from the traditional Thanksgiving meal next week. Biden's health report is due to be released by officials on Friday afternoon. (With inputs from Agencies)

Vice President Kamala Harris becomes US president for a 'brief period'

As Joe&nbsp;Biden&nbsp;pops the cork on his alcohol-free birthday bubbly this weekend he will not need to be reminded that he was born as close to the end of Abraham Lincoln's presidency as he was to the start of his own.

The veteran Democrat, who turns&nbsp;79&nbsp;on Saturday, has said publicly he intends to run for reelection but there has been&nbsp;persistent speculation&nbsp;that he could change his mind given his advanced years.

There is usually little intrigue around the nomination when a US president is still in his first term, as no occupant of the White House has declined to seek reelection since Lyndon Johnson more than 50 years ago.

But&nbsp;Biden&nbsp;would be 86 at the end of a second term, and&nbsp;potential&nbsp;successors&nbsp;and their sponsors are already circling, seeing another four years as an assignment too far in&nbsp;Biden's storied political career.

In a new Politico/Morning Consult poll, only 40 per cent of voters surveyed agreed with the statement that&nbsp;Biden&nbsp;"is in good health," while 50 per cent disagreed -- a 29-point shift over a year.

"If his health declines, as sometimes happens in one's 80s, his plans might change," said David Greenberg, a journalism and history professor at Rutgers University in New Jersey.

"That would create a wide-open field, with many of the 2020 runners-up as possibilities, as well as a lot of people who didn't run."

If&nbsp;Biden&nbsp;were to become the nation's first octogenarian presidential candidate, he would be somewhat undermining the status he gave himself during the campaign as a "bridge" to the next generation -- taken by many as a tacit assurance that he would not seek a second term.&nbsp;

History-making Kamala Harris -- the first woman and first Black and Asian American ever sworn in as vice president -- would be the heir apparent.

<h2>&nbsp;'Bold leader'&nbsp;</h2>

But her halo has slipped amid a run of negative press alleging dysfunction among her staff, casting doubt on her standing within the administration and reporting her frustrations over her thorny assignments.

Asked by ABC Thursday if she'd spoken to&nbsp;Biden&nbsp;about his plans for the future, Harris said "absolutely not," adding that the administration was focused on infrastructure, national security and other priorities.

She rejected reports that she was feeling misused or wrongly deployed, telling the channel: "We're getting things done, and we're doing it together."

But Harris has struggled to make an impact, with her approval dipping to 28 per cent in one survey, and headlines outlining her frustrations over being politically sidelined and set up for failure.&nbsp;

It is not unusual for vice presidents to be assigned some heavy lifting during their time in the West Wing, but Harris has been handed some particularly tough portfolios,&nbsp;from&nbsp;voting rights to the immigration crisis at the southern border.

Overseas, her recent trip to Paris went without hitches, but jaunts to Latin America and Asia have been less successful.

Harris visited Guatemala and Mexico in June as part of her immigration mission, giving an interview to NBC News that was widely regarded as a disaster.&nbsp;

Asked why she had not yet been to the border, Harris replied: "And I haven't been to Europe... And I mean, I don't understand the point that you're making. I'm not discounting the importance of the border."

Hours after the interview, several US media outlets reported that Harris's communications chief&nbsp;Ashley Etienne&nbsp;was leaving -- "to pursue other opportunities," according to White House officials -- adding to speculation about low morale among the staff.&nbsp;

<h2>&nbsp;'Hope and rumour'&nbsp;</h2>

Amid Harris's travails, another barrier-breaking Democrat, Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg has risen to the fore as the point man on implementing much of&nbsp;Biden's $1.2 trillion infrastructure package.&nbsp;

But the first openly gay US cabinet secretary is also the face of the supply-chain crisis that right-wing media are predicting will ruin the holiday season.&nbsp;

Critics also point to the biggest flaw of his impressive campaign for the Democratic presidential nomination, a glaring lack of support&nbsp;from&nbsp;voters of colour.&nbsp;

Three analysts interviewed by AFP -- former congressional chief of staff Mark Bayer, University of Toledo politics professor Sam Nelson and Tommy Goodwin, a Washington-based lobbyist -- said Harris would nevertheless be the frontrunner in any Democratic succession, with Buttigieg also in the conversation.

"Beyond those two, it's worth keeping an eye on California Governor Gavin Newsom," said Goodwin, while Nelson singled out a number of previous hopefuls, including Beto O'Rourke, who is vying for the Texas governor's mansion in 2022.

From&nbsp;the Senate, Cory Booker is said to be putting out feelers in the critical primary state of New Hampshire, while&nbsp;Minnesota's Amy Klobuchar is on a book tour and&nbsp;Elizabeth Warren has begun endorsing candidates beyond her Massachusetts base.

But Peter Loge, an associate professor at George Washington University, says any talk of&nbsp;Biden's retirement would be premature, recalling similar claims about Donald Trump in 2019. &nbsp;

"There is always speculation based on hope and whispered rumours," Loge told AFP, "most of which isn't based on more than hope and rumour."

As Joe Biden pops the cork on his alcohol-free birthday bubbly this weekend he will not need to be reminded that he was born as close to the end of Abraham Lincoln's presidency as he was to the start of his own.

As Joe Biden pops the cork on his alcohol-free birthday bubbly this weekend he will not need to be reminded that he was born as close to the end of Abraham Lincoln's presidency as he was to the start of his own. The veteran Democrat, who turns 79 on Saturday, has said publicly he intends to run for reelection but there has been persistent speculation that he could change his mind given his advanced years. There is usually little intrigue around the nomination when a US president is still in his first term, as no occupant of the White House has declined to seek reelection since Lyndon Johnson more than 50 years ago. But Biden would be 86 at the end of a second term, and potential successors and their sponsors are already circling, seeing another four years as an assignment too far in Biden's storied political career. In a new Politico/Morning Consult poll, only 40 per cent of voters surveyed agreed with the statement that Biden "is in good health," while 50 per cent disagreed -- a 29-point shift over a year. "If his health declines, as sometimes happens in one's 80s, his plans might change," said David Greenberg, a journalism and history professor at Rutgers University in New Jersey. "That would create a wide-open field, with many of the 2020 runners-up as possibilities, as well as a lot of people who didn't run." If Biden were to become the nation's first octogenarian presidential candidate, he would be somewhat undermining the status he gave himself during the campaign as a "bridge" to the next generation -- taken by many as a tacit assurance that he would not seek a second term. History-making Kamala Harris -- the first woman and first Black and Asian American ever sworn in as vice president -- would be the heir apparent. 'Bold leader' But her halo has slipped amid a run of negative press alleging dysfunction among her staff, casting doubt on her standing within the administration and reporting her frustrations over her thorny assignments. Asked by ABC Thursday if she'd spoken to Biden about his plans for the future, Harris said "absolutely not," adding that the administration was focused on infrastructure, national security and other priorities. She rejected reports that she was feeling misused or wrongly deployed, telling the channel: "We're getting things done, and we're doing it together." But Harris has struggled to make an impact, with her approval dipping to 28 per cent in one survey, and headlines outlining her frustrations over being politically sidelined and set up for failure. It is not unusual for vice presidents to be assigned some heavy lifting during their time in the West Wing, but Harris has been handed some particularly tough portfolios, from voting rights to the immigration crisis at the southern border. Overseas, her recent trip to Paris went without hitches, but jaunts to Latin America and Asia have been less successful. Harris visited Guatemala and Mexico in June as part of her immigration mission, giving an interview to NBC News that was widely regarded as a disaster. Asked why she had not yet been to the border, Harris replied: "And I haven't been to Europe... And I mean, I don't understand the point that you're making. I'm not discounting the importance of the border." Hours after the interview, several US media outlets reported that Harris's communications chief Ashley Etienne was leaving -- "to pursue other opportunities," according to White House officials -- adding to speculation about low morale among the staff. 'Hope and rumour' Amid Harris's travails, another barrier-breaking Democrat, Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg has risen to the fore as the point man on implementing much of Biden's $1.2 trillion infrastructure package. But the first openly gay US cabinet secretary is also the face of the supply-chain crisis that right-wing media are predicting will ruin the holiday season. Critics also point to the biggest flaw of his impressive campaign for the Democratic presidential nomination, a glaring lack of support from voters of colour. Three analysts interviewed by AFP -- former congressional chief of staff Mark Bayer, University of Toledo politics professor Sam Nelson and Tommy Goodwin, a Washington-based lobbyist -- said Harris would nevertheless be the frontrunner in any Democratic succession, with Buttigieg also in the conversation. "Beyond those two, it's worth keeping an eye on California Governor Gavin Newsom," said Goodwin, while Nelson singled out a number of previous hopefuls, including Beto O'Rourke, who is vying for the Texas governor's mansion in 2022. From the Senate, Cory Booker is said to be putting out feelers in the critical primary state of New Hampshire, while Minnesota's Amy Klobuchar is on a book tour and Elizabeth Warren has begun endorsing candidates beyond her Massachusetts base. But Peter Loge, an associate professor at George Washington University, says any talk of Biden's retirement would be premature, recalling similar claims about Donald Trump in 2019. "There is always speculation based on hope and whispered rumours," Loge told AFP, "most of which isn't based on more than hope and rumour."

Biden hits 79 as potential successors watch from wings

Vice President Kamala Harris has brushed aside reports that she feels “frustrated and underutilised” in the Biden administration.

"I am very, very excited about the work that we have accomplished," she said during an interview to ABC's Good Morning America programme. “But I am also absolutely, absolutely clear-eyed that there is a lot more to do and we're going to get it done.”

When asked whether she feels “misused or underused”, Harris retorted, “No, I don’t”.

The response from Harris comes in the backdrop of a CNN report which claimed dysfunction between her team and the president’s office.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/underwater-polls-suggest-kamala-harris-least-popular-vice-president-since-1970s-402209">'Underwater': Polls suggest Kamala Harris least popular Vice President since 1970s</a>

The report, citing unnamed sources from the administration, claimed that Harris feels sidelined in the administration and that she is feeling “constrained in what she's able to do politically.”

The report further claims that Harris “is struggling with a rocky relationship with some parts of the White House, while long-time supporters feel abandoned and see no coherent public sense of what she's done or been trying to do as vice president.”

The White House has also denied any tensions in the office.

“The president selected the vice president to serve as his running mate because he felt she was exactly the person you wanted to have by his side to govern the country," press secretary Jen Psaki told reporters.

"She is a key partner. She's a bold leader. And she is somebody who has taken on incredibly important assignments.”

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/twitter-cant-keep-calm-as-it-discovers-kamala-harris-is-a-part-of-bts-army-358228">Twitter can't keep calm as it discovers Kamala Harris is a part of BTS ARMY</a>

Meanwhile, Kamala Harris’ communications director Ashley Etienne has resigned from the office, a White House official told CNN.

‘Ashley is a valued member of the vice president’s team, who has worked tirelessly to advance the goals of this administration,’ the official said on Thursday. ‘She is leaving the office in December to pursue other opportunities.’

It is being said that Etienne’s exit was due as she ‘was not a good fit’ for the vice president’s office and did not actively shape the communications strategy for&nbsp;Harris.

(With inputs from agencies)

Vice President Kamala Harris has brushed aside reports that she feels “frustrated and underutilised” in the Biden administration. "I am very, very excited about the work that we have accomplished," she said during an interview to ABC's Good Morning America programme.

Vice President Kamala Harris has brushed aside reports that she feels “frustrated and underutilised” in the Biden administration. "I am very, very excited about the work that we have accomplished," she said during an interview to ABC's Good Morning America programme. “But I am also absolutely, absolutely clear-eyed that there is a lot more to do and we're going to get it done.” When asked whether she feels “misused or underused”, Harris retorted, “No, I don’t”. The response from Harris comes in the backdrop of a CNN report which claimed dysfunction between her team and the president’s office. Also read | 'Underwater': Polls suggest Kamala Harris least popular Vice President since 1970s The report, citing unnamed sources from the administration, claimed that Harris feels sidelined in the administration and that she is feeling “constrained in what she's able to do politically.” The report further claims that Harris “is struggling with a rocky relationship with some parts of the White House, while long-time supporters feel abandoned and see no coherent public sense of what she's done or been trying to do as vice president.” The White House has also denied any tensions in the office. “The president selected the vice president to serve as his running mate because he felt she was exactly the person you wanted to have by his side to govern the country," press secretary Jen Psaki told reporters. "She is a key partner. She's a bold leader. And she is somebody who has taken on incredibly important assignments.” Also read | Twitter can't keep calm as it discovers Kamala Harris is a part of BTS ARMY Meanwhile, Kamala Harris’ communications director Ashley Etienne has resigned from the office, a White House official told CNN. ‘Ashley is a valued member of the vice president’s team, who has worked tirelessly to advance the goals of this administration,’ the official said on Thursday. ‘She is leaving the office in December to pursue other opportunities.’ It is being said that Etienne’s exit was due as she ‘was not a good fit’ for the vice president’s office and did not actively shape the communications strategy for Harris. (With inputs from agencies)

Kamala Harris brushes aside reports of tensions with Biden administration, says ‘excited about the work’

For long, speculation has been rife on whether Kamala Harris, America's first woman Vice President was fit for her role at the White House. In Washington's highest corridors of power her focus, drive and overall competence for the key position was clouded by doubt. In the latest,CNN has come out with an exhaustive piece detailing Washington's lack of confidence in Kamala Harris' leadership.

Does Washington doubt Kamala Harris' leadership?

US Vice President Kamala Harris on Saturday received a COVID-19 vaccine booster shot. Harris received her third dose of the Moderna vaccine at the White House and encouraged everyone to get the booster "when you are eligible."

"What we have said from the beginning: It's safe and free," she said.&nbsp;Harris highlighted that over 90 per cent of Americans in intensive care units or who have died of COVID-19 are unvaccinated.

"So let’s get vaccinated and we will get through the pandemic," she said.

Harris got vaccinated against the deadly virus on live television in December 2020. She got vaccinated a week after US President Joe Biden took a shot of the Pfizer-BioNtech vaccine on December 21, 2020.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/g20-leaders-agree-on-historic-corporate-tax-deal-425387">Also read |&nbsp;G20 leaders agree on historic corporate tax deal</a>

He was administered the vaccine at Christiana Care Hospital in Newark, Delaware. After saying "I'm ready", he rolled up the sleeve on his left arm and later assured Americans that "there's nothing to worry about".

The US Food and Drug Administration has approved Moderna booster shots to be administered six months after the second dose to people aged 65 or older.&nbsp;

The shot can also be administered to people aged 18-64 who are either at high risk of severe COVID-19 or with frequent exposure to the virus because of their job.&nbsp;

US Vice President Kamala Harris on Saturday received a COVID-19 vaccine booster shot. Harris received her third dose of the Moderna vaccine at the White House and encouraged everyone to get the booster "when you are eligible.

US Vice President Kamala Harris on Saturday received a COVID-19 vaccine booster shot. Harris received her third dose of the Moderna vaccine at the White House and encouraged everyone to get the booster "when you are eligible." "What we have said from the beginning: It's safe and free," she said. Harris highlighted that over 90 per cent of Americans in intensive care units or who have died of COVID-19 are unvaccinated. "So let’s get vaccinated and we will get through the pandemic," she said. Harris got vaccinated against the deadly virus on live television in December 2020. She got vaccinated a week after US President Joe Biden took a shot of the Pfizer-BioNtech vaccine on December 21, 2020. Also read | G20 leaders agree on historic corporate tax deal He was administered the vaccine at Christiana Care Hospital in Newark, Delaware. After saying "I'm ready", he rolled up the sleeve on his left arm and later assured Americans that "there's nothing to worry about". The US Food and Drug Administration has approved Moderna booster shots to be administered six months after the second dose to people aged 65 or older. The shot can also be administered to people aged 18-64 who are either at high risk of severe COVID-19 or with frequent exposure to the virus because of their job.

'When you are eligible': Kamala Harris gets COVID-19 booster shot urging people to do the same

Former US President Donald Trump has the highest chances of winning the 2024 election and returning to the White House.

A UK-based betting exchange company called Smarkets has predicted that Trump, for the first time, has edged ahead of his predecessor Joe Biden.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hows-biden-doing-do-you-miss-me-yet-trump-pokes-fun-at-us-president-420630">Also read |&nbsp;'How's Biden doing? 'Do you miss me yet?': Trump pokes fun at US President</a>

Biden who is the second place with 19 per cent votes as per a poll conducted by the website, is followed by Vice-President Kamala Harris with 13 per cent votes.

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BREAKING: Donald Trump has just gone favourite for the first time in our 2024 presidential election winner market. 
 
The former president's win chance just hit a new high of 20% with Joe Biden's dipping to 19.6%. Trade 👉 <a href="https://t.co/rpWB459REB">https://t.co/rpWB459REB</a> <a href="https://t.co/yU9VV3u6xH">pic.twitter.com/yU9VV3u6xH</a>
— Smarkets (@smarkets) <a href="https://twitter.com/smarkets/status/1448307743895560195?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 13, 2021</a></blockquote>
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The poll shows Trump has a 45 per cent chance of winning the GOP primary. He is the most likely candidate to become the Republican nominee for the 2024 election.

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/report-dc-hotel-concealed-payments-420316/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

The other possible candidates include Ron DeSantis and Nikki Haley with 14 per cent and 11 per cent votes respectively.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/biden-ends-workplace-immigration-raids-reversing-trump-policy-420524">Also read |&nbsp;Biden ends workplace immigration raids, reversing Trump policy</a>

The company's head of political market Matthew Shaddick said, "It's a pretty staggering development to find a defeated one-term president taking over as favourite from the incumbent who beat him, but we know by now that Donald Trump is no ordinary politician."

"Many forecasters had predicted that health or legal issues might stop Trump from re-election, but the latest Smarkets prices imply that there is a two-in-three chance he'll run for the White House again in three years' time, he added.

Trump has hinted at a possible presidential run in 2024, attacking Biden and repeating his fraudulent claims he won the 2020 election.

Trump's flirtation with another run could freeze the Republican field for 2024 as other potential candidates try to decide whether they will have to compete against him.

Former US President Donald Trump has the highest chances of winning the 2024 election and returning to the White House. A UK-based betting exchange company called Smarkets has predicted that Trump, for the first time, has edged ahead of his predecessor Joe Biden.

Former US President Donald Trump has the highest chances of winning the 2024 election and returning to the White House. A UK-based betting exchange company called Smarkets has predicted that Trump, for the first time, has edged ahead of his predecessor Joe Biden. Also read | 'How's Biden doing? 'Do you miss me yet?': Trump pokes fun at US President Biden who is the second place with 19 per cent votes as per a poll conducted by the website, is followed by Vice-President Kamala Harris with 13 per cent votes. BREAKING: Donald Trump has just gone favourite for the first time in our 2024 presidential election winner market. The former president's win chance just hit a new high of 20% with Joe Biden's dipping to 19.6%. Trade 👉 https://t.co/rpWB459REB pic.twitter.com/yU9VV3u6xH — Smarkets (@smarkets) October 13, 2021 × The poll shows Trump has a 45 per cent chance of winning the GOP primary. He is the most likely candidate to become the Republican nominee for the 2024 election. The other possible candidates include Ron DeSantis and Nikki Haley with 14 per cent and 11 per cent votes respectively. Also read | Biden ends workplace immigration raids, reversing Trump policy The company's head of political market Matthew Shaddick said, "It's a pretty staggering development to find a defeated one-term president taking over as favourite from the incumbent who beat him, but we know by now that Donald Trump is no ordinary politician." "Many forecasters had predicted that health or legal issues might stop Trump from re-election, but the latest Smarkets prices imply that there is a two-in-three chance he'll run for the White House again in three years' time, he added. Trump has hinted at a possible presidential run in 2024, attacking Biden and repeating his fraudulent claims he won the 2020 election. Trump's flirtation with another run could freeze the Republican field for 2024 as other potential candidates try to decide whether they will have to compete against him.

US election 2024: Former US President Donald Trump favourite candidate, Biden lagging behind

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