Cornel West, an Independent presidential candidate, has accused Vice President Kamala Harris’ campaign of attempting to bribe him to drop out of the 2024 election. West revealed in a podcast interview with Status Coup News that he was offered a high-ranking position within Harris’s administration and a promise to pay off his campaign debts if he withdrew from the race.
West’s presence in the race has become a significant concern for the Democratic Party, as polls indicate he could siphon off votes from Harris in swing states, potentially benefiting President Donald Trump. Despite facing pressure, West remains undeterred and committed to his campaign.
During the interview, West detailed how members of the Harris campaign approached him, encouraging him to join forces with Harris, emphasizing the historic nature of her candidacy. West, however, rejected their offers, making it clear that he wasn’t interested in any promises of resources or positions. “You can offer resources or positions or what have you — that’s not what I’m all about,” West stated.
When further questioned by the podcast host, West suggested that there were “serious, substantive conversations” about a possible role in Harris’s administration but declined to elaborate. If West’s allegations are true, they could raise serious ethical concerns about the Harris campaign’s tactics as the 2024 election approaches.
West has qualified for the ballot in key states like Wisconsin, Georgia, and Pennsylvania, and a recent Michigan court ruling ensured his name would appear on that state’s ballot as well. The situation brings to mind past instances where the Democratic Party allegedly tried to influence candidates, such as the case involving Rep. Joe Sestak (D-PA) during the Obama administration.
