A Small-C Conservative Case for Kamala Harris

• In 1978, Beirut’s chaos taught me how fragile civilization can be.
• My conservative endorsement of Kamala Harris supports stability in democracy.
• Harris moves away from identity politics, prioritising unity and optimism.
• Reagan’s dismissal of government overlooks its crucial stabilising function.
• Trump undermines respect for democratic institutions, threatening civic order.

The Importance of Civic Order in a Democracy

In 1978, my first encounter with a war zone unfolded in Beirut, a city steeped in history and culture yet wrecked by chaos. The situation was dire, as multiple factions fought for dominance, even turning a renowned venue like the Holiday Inn into a battleground. Reflecting on this, I quickly realised that what we take for granted—civilisation—was, in reality, a fragile balance, in need of protection and nurturing, especially in cosmopolitan hubs like Beirut. This experience, quite profoundly, is why I find myself drawn to support Kamala Harris for the presidency, valuing the stabilising influence she could bring to our democracy.

Kamala Harris’s Conservative Appeal

Now, it’s important to clarify that my endorsement of Ms. Harris comes from a conservative viewpoint, which may seem a bit off-kilter in today’s political landscape. It isn’t about aligning with the current turmoil of the Republican Party or the libertarian stance espoused by Reagan, all about reducing government involvement. No, my backing is rooted in Harris’s appreciation for the longstanding traditions and institutions of America. She’s also made two pivotal shifts in the Democratic narrative by moving away from identity politics and the pessimism prevalent in some academic circles. For me, the focus is on three fundamental qualities she embodies: stability, unity, and optimism.

A Commitment to Stability Against Disunity

Reagan’s infamous declaration in his inaugural address—government is the problem—couldn’t be more misguided. Sure, government isn’t flawless, often mired in hubris and misguided policies, yet it serves as a necessary counterbalance to the darker tendencies of unchecked capitalism. Harris, educated in the principles of law, gets this in her bones. There lies a stark contrast with Donald Trump, who seems bent on undermining the very institutions that ensure our safety and democracy, from judicial bodies to our military. Reports of his disparaging remarks about military service members speak volumes about his disconnect from the values of sacrifice and civic duty, suggesting he grasps little of what it means to be part of a democratic society.

In short, my support for Kamala Harris as a presidential candidate rises from a desire for stability, unity, and optimism within our democracy. It’s a conservative viewpoint, somehow aligned against the backdrop of contemporary political chaos. As we stand at a precarious crossroads, it’s essential to recognise what Harris could bring to the table—protecting traditions, fostering civic respect, and reinforcing our faith in democracy’s mechanisms.