NEW YORK − In her first discussion since becoming the nominee for the Democratic presidential race, Vice President Kamala Harris brought along her running mate, Minnesota Governor Tim Walz.

Harris, dressed in a sleek gray suit and her signature pearl necklace, shared her views on various progressive policies she supported during her time as a California senator and in her 2020 presidential campaign. She also expressed her willingness to consider appointing a Republican to her Cabinet during an interview with CNN anchor Dana Bash.

With only 67 days remaining until the election, Harris faced criticism for not hosting press conferences or interviews after taking over from President Biden following his withdrawal from the race.

Here are four key highlights from the interview featuring Harris and Walz:

Diverse Cabinet Picks?

Harris knows she needs to secure a victory in November to form her administration. However, discussion has already begun about potential appointments for her government.

Bash queried Harris on the possibility of including a Republican in her Cabinet, to which she swiftly replied, “yes,” although she noted she has no specific names in mind.

“My career has been about encouraging diverse opinions,” she remarked, suggesting that this approach would benefit the American people.

Choosing individuals from across the political spectrum is not unprecedented in contemporary politics. President Barack Obama, for instance, appointed three Republicans to his Cabinet: Ray LaHood for Transportation, Robert Gates for Defense, and Judd Gregg for Commerce, although the latter later withdrew his name. Additionally, Transportation Secretary Norman Mineta was the only Democrat in President George W. Bush’s Cabinet.

Changing Views on Environmental Policies?

The conversation turned a bit tense when Bash asked Harris about her current stance on fracking, given her earlier statement in 2019 advocating for a ban on it.

Harris appeared frustrated with the question and insisted she had clearly stated during the 2020 vice presidential debate that she would not support a ban on fracking if Biden won the presidency.

“I’ve kept my promise and I will continue to do so,” she emphasized.

Bash rephrased the inquiry, probing what made her alter her position “at that time.”

“Let’s be clear. My values have not shifted,” Harris proclaimed, later discussing how the Inflation Reduction Act included significant investments in clean energy and job creation in the sector.

Walz Shares a Heartwarming Moment

Walz reflected on one of the most shared moments from the recent Democratic National Convention in Chicago, which involved his son, Gus.

During his acceptance speech as Harris’ running mate, cameras captured Gus Walz saying, “That’s my dad.”

Discussing this moment which highlighted his son’s nonverbal learning disorder as well as anxiety and ADHD, Walz described it as “a deeply emotional experience.”

“I’m thankful to have experienced it. And I couldn’t be prouder of him,” he expressed.

The Call That Altered Everything

The interview on Thursday revealed more insights into a crucial event of the 2024 campaign: how Harris found out she would be the Democratic Party’s newest candidate.

When asked to recount the moment, Harris shared that she was in the midst of a puzzle with her grandnieces when she received a call from Biden, announcing his decision to exit the race and support her.

Harris mentioned she questioned Biden to confirm his decision.

“He assured me he was fully committed to supporting me,” she stated, emphasizing that Biden’s career has been marked by an unwavering dedication to the American populace.