(CNN) In an interview Thursday with The New York Times, President Donald Trump was asked whether there was anyone in the rapidly forming 2020 Democratic field who he thought might be his toughest opponent.

"I would say, the best opening so far would be Kamala Harris," Trump responded. "I would say, in terms of the opening act, I would say, would be her."

He's right -- even though he pronounced Harris' first name wrong. (It's pronounced "comma-la.")

Of the early entrances we've seen in the Democratic race, Harris' has been the best. Why?

Well, first, she clearly had a very well-thought-out plan, with a plan to get maximum media attention both nationally and in key early-voting states, as well as to send a powerful symbolic message about her candidacy.