Title: Kamala Harris and the Challenges of the “Glass Cliff”
Introduction:
President Joe Biden’s endorsement of Vice President Kamala Harris as his successor came after a series of setbacks and a bout of Covid, signaling a major shift in the Democratic Party’s strategy. However, this move also places Harris in a precarious position, known as the “glass cliff,” where women are often appointed to leadership roles when organizations are on the brink of failure. This article explores the concept of the glass cliff, analyzes its relevance to Harris’s situation, and examines the potential challenges she may face.
The Glass Cliff Phenomenon:
The term “glass cliff” was coined in 2005 by British organizational psychologists Michelle K. Ryan and S. Alexander Haslam. It refers to the phenomenon of women being promoted or hired during times of crisis or failure within an organization. Ryan and Haslam’s research found that companies that appointed women to their boards were more likely to have experienced consistently poor performance in the preceding months.
Harris and the Glass Cliff:
Harris’s appointment as Biden’s successor raises questions about why she wasn’t called upon earlier, given her qualifications and ability to do the job. The Democratic Party waited until their hand was forced, potentially setting Harris up for failure. Her history as a prosecutor and alleged missteps on immigration may dampen enthusiasm among the party’s progressive base and provide ammunition for the Trump campaign. However, Harris’s solid liberal record in the Senate and potential to unite the party around key issues like abortion rights make her a strong candidate.
Challenges Ahead:
While Harris possesses the skills and qualifications to be president, she will face significant challenges. Disinformation campaigns, internal party conflicts, and complex issues such as the climate crisis and a conservative Supreme Court will require her to navigate difficult terrain. Additionally, Republicans will attempt to tie her to Biden’s declining popularity, posing a potential obstacle to her success.
Harris as a “DEI” Candidate:
Harris has been labeled a “DEI” (Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion) candidate, which diminishes her qualifications and record as a Democratic power player. However, when women and people of color are promoted during times of crisis, they are often seen as wins for diversity. While some may cynically dismiss Harris’s nomination, it is essential to consider how the system set her up to fail rather than questioning her suitability for the role.
Conclusion:
Kamala Harris’s appointment as Biden’s successor represents a significant shift in the Democratic Party’s strategy. However, it also places her on the metaphorical “glass cliff,” where women are often tasked with saving organizations on the brink of failure. While Harris possesses the qualifications and potential to unite the party, she will face numerous challenges, including disinformation campaigns and a divided party. Understanding the concept of the glass cliff provides valuable insights into Harris’s situation and highlights the need to support her rather than questioning her suitability for the role.
