Kamala’s bacon comments upset Muslim host, video canceled


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The popular web series “Subway Takes” opted not to air an interview with Vice President Kamala Harris after she made comments about bacon, which were perceived as insensitive by the Muslim host, Kareem Rahma.

Rahma had initially been inclined to support Harris and her running mate, Minnesota Governor Tim Walz, partly due to his opposition to Israel’s actions in Gaza and his belief that their stance aligned more closely with his views.

However, the interview took an unexpected turn when Harris arrived and insisted on discussing her fondness for bacon. According to the New York Times’ Reggie Ugwu, there was disagreement over the topic of Harris’s “take.” Rahma had been informed that the vice president would address the issue of removing shoes on airplanes. Instead, Harris surprised him by declaring, “Bacon is a spice.”

Caught off guard, Rahma, who abstains from pork for religious reasons, responded with audible discomfort. Harris continued, explaining that bacon bits could be used to enhance meals like any other seasoning, stating, “Think about it, it’s pure flavor.”

Attempting to salvage the situation, Rahma inquired about alternative meats and dishes that could benefit from bacon. He then paused the interview to inform Harris of his dietary restrictions and suggested reverting to the original airplane topic. Following advice from a staffer, Harris pivoted to expressing her love for anchovies on pizza, an option previously suggested by her campaign. The discussion concluded shortly after.

Ultimately, Rahma decided against airing the Harris episode. However, he did release an episode featuring Walz discussing gutters.

This incident highlights the challenges Harris faces in connecting with Arab and Muslim American voters, some of whom are now considering supporting Donald Trump instead.