Why is Harris bringing Walz to her first major interview?

Three weeks ago, just days after being formally chosen as the Democratic presidential nominee, Kamala Harris was pressed on her plans for a sit-down interview.

“I’ve talked to my team,” she told reporters on the airport tarmac in Detroit. “I want us to get an interview scheduled before the end of the month.”

On Thursday night, Ms Harris will – just barely – make good on that promise, sitting down with CNN’s Dana Bash for her first major interview.

But Ms Harris will not be there by herself. The vice-president will be joined by her running mate, Minnesota Governor Tim Walz, for the prime-time appearance, airing at 21:00 EDT (02:00 BST).

Ms Harris may have answered the question of when she would conduct an in-depth, substantive discussion of her candidacy and agenda – standard procedure for all major party presidential candidates.

But with Mr Walz in tow, the decision to make this a joint appearance may also fuel growing criticism that after escaping the rigours of a months-long presidential primary, she is now dodging the scrutiny that comes with a solo interview.