Hot Club Tracks Staff August 18th, 2024

Kamala Harris, the first female Vice President of the United States, is a figure who has made significant strides in American politics. While her political stances have often aligned with progressive causes, there are aspects of her life and career that may surprise you, especially if you're looking at her through a conservative lens. Here are ten things you may not know about Kamala Harris:

1. A Product of Immigrant Success

Harris was born to immigrant parents—her mother from India and her father from Jamaica—who both came to the United States in pursuit of higher education and opportunity. Her background is a testament to the American Dream, highlighting the importance of education, hard work, and perseverance.

2. Tough on Crime as California’s Attorney General

Despite her current alignment with progressive causes, Kamala Harris was known for her "tough on crime" stance during her tenure as California’s Attorney General. She supported policies that increased penalties for certain offenses and resisted calls to decriminalize certain activities, which sometimes put her at odds with more liberal factions within her own party.

3. Howard University and the HBCU Experience

Kamala Harris is a graduate of Howard University, one of the most prestigious historically Black colleges and universities (HBCUs) in the country. Howard is known for fostering a strong sense of leadership and service, values that have clearly influenced Harris’s career in public service.

4. Her Connection to Law Enforcement

Harris has a complicated relationship with law enforcement, having served as San Francisco’s District Attorney before becoming California’s Attorney General. While she has since taken more progressive positions on criminal justice reform, her earlier career reflects a focus on law and order, which resonated with a more traditional view of public safety.

5. Her Role in the Senate

Elected to the U.S. Senate in 2016, Kamala Harris became known for her rigorous questioning during Senate hearings, including the confirmation of conservative Supreme Court Justice Brett Kavanaugh. Her prosecutorial style was both praised and criticized, depending on one's political perspective, but it undeniably showcased her legal acumen and commitment to holding government officials accountable.

6. A Mixed Record on Criminal Justice Reform

While she has advocated for criminal justice reform, some conservatives might appreciate that Kamala Harris's record as Attorney General wasn’t always in line with the more progressive wing of her party. For example, she initially opposed statewide bail reform and was criticized by progressives for not doing enough to address police misconduct.

7. An Author with a Message

Harris has authored several books, including “Smart on Crime,” where she outlines her approach to criminal justice. The book offers insights into her belief in a balanced approach to crime—one that supports both reform and accountability—making it a worthwhile read for those interested in understanding her more centrist positions.

8. A Groundbreaking Vice Presidency

Kamala Harris made history as the first woman, the first Black person, and the first South Asian person to serve as Vice President of the United States. While her groundbreaking election has been celebrated across the political spectrum, it also brings a level of scrutiny and expectation that has shaped her tenure in ways that appeal to both progressives and moderates.

9. Climate Change: A Focus on Environmental Justice

Harris has been a vocal advocate for addressing climate change, with a particular focus on environmental justice. While her support of the Green New Deal aligns with progressive priorities, her emphasis on protecting vulnerable communities and holding polluters accountable may resonate with those who support responsible stewardship of the environment.

10. A Love for American Culture

Beyond politics, Kamala Harris is known for her love of American culture, particularly music. From jazz to hip-hop, her appreciation for music reflects a connection to diverse American traditions. This cultural connection is an aspect of her personality that humanizes her and resonates with a broader audience.

Kamala Harris’s journey is marked by a series of historic achievements and a complex political career. While her policies may often align with progressive values, there are facets of her life and work that appeal to a more centrist or even conservative viewpoint. As she continues to serve as Vice President, understanding these aspects of her background and career may provide a fuller picture of her as a leader in American politics.

Interested in learning more about influential political figures? Check out our article on ten things you need to know about Donald Trump!