These deep-pocketed Democrats criticize a Kamala Harris coronation

Simone Del Rosario: It’s a record-breaking introduction to the race. The campaign for Kamala Harris says they raised $81 million dollars in the first 24 hours since President Joe Biden stepped down and endorsed his VP. 

Paul Begala: Obviously it starts with President Biden endorsing her and it’s great to have George Clooney and Beyonce. I’m even more struck at the grassroots.

Simone Del Rosario: A lot of that money came from online donations made to the Democratic political action committee ActBlue, that’s the grassroots money. And Harris has seen her share of support from big donors. 

But not all Democratic heavyweights are lining up behind her. Though Harris has, in theory, secured enough delegate support to win the nomination, some of the Democratic Party’s deep pockets are worried that this is giving off coronation vibes. 

While Biden megadonor John Morgan says he’s not willing to pony up for a candidate he doesn’t think will win. 

John Morgan: I said you know, I’m just going to take my money and go home. And guess what, they’re going to raise plenty of money without me. They’re not going to need me one bit. But for me, it was a bridge too far. 

Simone Del Rosario: Morgan’s made clear he’s out. It’ll be interesting to see if other more hesitant donors will soon change their tune. 

Netflix co-founder Reed Hastings is one who, two days ago, said Dem delegates need to pick a swing state winner. Less than 36 hours later, he’s already conceding that Harris is the choice. Hastings had also recently withheld funds from Biden, believing he needed to step down. 

Mike Bloomberg said, look, there are still four weeks before the convention. More than enough time for the party to take the pulse of the voters and see who is best positioned to win…he says the decision is too important to rush because the election is too important to lose. 

Venture capitalist and Dem donor Vinod Khosla said, An open process will allow everyone a chance to make their case and express their views. Coronations are bad for democracy.

So far no one has come out to challenge Harris, making a pretty clear path to the top of the ticket.