Kamala Harris stands out from her competitors in a variety of ways, one of which is her background as a prosecutor. It clearly influences the way she thinks and talks; she tends to be firm and direct, and she enjoys cross-examining witnesses.
That kind of approach could well appeal to angry Democrats. Can’t you imagine a nominee who effectively puts Trump on the stand and destroys him? Wouldn’t that be fun?
Yes, it would. For the same reasons, my best guess is that she will make a strong impression during the debates. If she is to win, however, she needs to address two related points: she has to find a way to transcend pure identity politics; and she has to find a formula that will win votes from white working men.
I think she can do both, but I haven’t seen the evidence of it yet.