A CNN historian believes that historically, a vibes campaign can be highly effective during discussions about the Harris campaign.

On Friday, CNN presidential historian Tim Naftali contended that American candidates have a history of winning the presidency by focusing on "vibes" instead of clear policy proposals.

Vice President Kamala Harris has faced criticism for her lack of transparency regarding her platform and for allegedly flip-flopping or copying former President Trump in certain policy areas since taking over the Democratic nomination.

Phil Mattingly of CNN advised that Harris' allies suggest she focus on broad topics instead of specific policy details.

"Mattingly stated that when discussing the vice president's stance on specific issues with Democrats, some argue that it is more effective to focus on character and values rather than getting bogged down in policy details. According to Mattingly, this strategy aligns with what Harris emphasized during her interview on Thursday."

"Naftali confirmed that the New Deal was effective in American history. Franklin Roosevelt ran on the New Deal during a time of economic collapse and against an incumbent. However, he did not specify what the New Deal was. His ideas about the New Deal were different in 1934 and 1935 compared to 1932."

Both Republicans and Democrats have gained advantages from vibes-based campaigning, as he pointed out.

"John F. Kennedy campaigned on a promise to revitalize the country, but his campaign primarily focused on creating a positive vibe. Richard Nixon, in 1968, pledged to end the war in Vietnam, but he did not specify how it would be achieved. He claimed to have a secret plan, which added to the ambiguity of his campaign. Nixon also differentiated himself from the people in power and LBJ, further emphasizing his uniqueness."

He then cited a more recent instance, recounting how "Barack Obama pledged change. Although he did deliver some policy changes, his main message was 'We've had enough of the Bush administration and its wars.' Historically, a campaign that focuses on vibes rather than policy can be highly effective."

Naftali pointed out that the twist in this election is that Harris is running as a change candidate while already serving alongside the current president.

"The challenge for Vice President Harris is to explain her approach to the border issue and why it took three years to implement the executive order. She has the advantage of being vice president, but she doesn't make those decisions. It would be acceptable if she created some distance between herself and Joe Biden."