Kamala Harris urged Democrats to consider a broader political strategy before the 2026 midterm elections, including discussions on the Electoral College, Supreme Court reform, redistricting and statehood for Washington, D.C., and Puerto Rico.

The former vice president made the remarks during a livestream hosted by Win With Black Women on Wednesday night, May 13, 2026, as Democrats debate how to respond to Republican-led redistricting efforts and recent court rulings affecting voting rights.

Harris Calls for an “Expanded Playbook”

Harris said Democrats should enter what she called a “no bad idea brainstorm” as the party prepares for the 2026 elections.

“Look, this is a moment where there are no bad ideas, a no bad idea brainstorm is what I’d like to call it,” Harris said during the livestream.

She said Democrats should discuss what they “need to do and think about doing around the Electoral College” and consider Supreme Court reform, including expanding the court.

Redistricting and Statehood Enter the Debate

Harris also pointed to multi-member districts and statehood proposals for Puerto Rico and Washington, D.C., as ideas Democrats should examine.

On redistricting, Harris argued that Democrats should respond more aggressively to Republican-led states.

“We got to fight fire with fire. They’re playing to win,” she said.

Her comments came after recent Supreme Court decisions intensified debate over congressional maps and voting rights ahead of the 2026 midterms.

For more context on the legal battle shaping the 2026 election map, read our full explainer on the Voting Rights Act and the Supreme Court ruling.
 

GOP Figures Criticize Harris’ Remarks

The comments quickly drew criticism from Republican figures and conservative commentators online.

New York City Councilwoman Vickie Paladino accused Harris of using divisive language, while Republican Sen. Mike Lee of Utah responded that there may be “a few bad ideas.” Other critics argued that proposals involving the Electoral College and Supreme Court would weaken long-standing constitutional structures.

Why It Matters Before 2026

The remarks highlight a broader fight inside US politics over voting rules, redistricting, court reform and how both parties should respond to shifting electoral pressures.

They also come as Democrats prepare for the 2026 midterm elections and as speculation continues over whether Harris may seek the presidency again in 2028.