Billionaire Elon Musk mocked Vice President Kamala Harris’ appearance at the BET Awards on Sunday, which he dubbed a “toenail curling level of cringe.”

During a prerecorded segment, Ms. Harris, alongside “Empire” star Taraji P. Henson, discussed political issues leading up to the November presidential election.

The vice president and Ms. Henson, both graduates of Howard University, engaged in a conversation in which the actress voiced her concerns about the upcoming election.

---

---

“Oh, Madam V.P. Harris, I’m worried about the election,” Ms. Henson said. “Women’s reproductive rights are on the line. Our Supreme Court is on the line. Our basic freedoms are being tested, Madam V.P. I know you’ve been traveling across the country, what are you hearing?”

Ms. Harris got jiggy with it, saying, “Yeah, girl I’m out here in these streets. And let me tell you, you’re right, Taraji. There is so much at stake in this moment. The majority of us believe in freedom and equality. But these extremists, as they say — they ’not like us.’”

The reference to “They Not Like Us” was a nod to Kendrick Lamar’s diss track, which marked a significant moment in his feud with fellow rapper Drake. The track gained widespread popularity and established Mr. Lamar as the perceived victor of the rivalry.

Journalist Alex Berenson shared Ms. Harris’ clip on X, quoting part of her statement and adding, “This is so bad. …” Mr. Musk, who acquired X in 2022, agreed with Mr. Berenson’s sentiment, commenting “Toenail curling level of cringe.”

The video comes amid a new poll indicating that Ms. Harris is the top choice to replace President Biden if he decides not to run for reelection.

Following a recent debate performance that raised concerns among Democrats, some are contemplating whether Mr. Biden should be replaced before facing Republican rival Donald Trump in November.