Vice President Kamala Harris, the presumptive 2024 Democratic presidential candidate, has a long and varied political career marked by controversy and accomplishment. From her early days as a prosecutor in San Francisco to her time as California attorney general and U.S. senator, Harris has developed a reputation as a tough-on-crime progressive who is not afraid to challenge the status quo.
Vice President Kamala Harris, the presumptive 2024 Democratic presidential candidate, has had a multifaceted political career that has seen her rise from local prosecutor to the second-highest office in the United States.
Harris' political journey began in 1990, when she was elected to the Alameda County District Attorney's Office. During her time there, she met Assembly Speaker Willie Brown, who became a significant mentor and supporter. With Brown's help, Harris was appointed to several well-paid state commissions, which launched her into the political limelight.
Kamala Harris' Ascent: From Local Prosecutor to Presumptive Democratic Presidential Frontrunner
In 2003, Harris was elected District Attorney of San Francisco, becoming the first woman and the first African American to hold that office. As DA, she gained a reputation as a tough-on-crime prosecutor who prioritized progressive policies. She opposed the death penalty, pursued three-strikes convictions only for violent felonies, and rarely sought prison time for marijuana offenses.
Harris' tenure as DA was also marked by controversy. She was criticized for opposing the death penalty for cop killers and for her handling of a police officer's murder. Nevertheless, she remained popular with voters and was re-elected in 2007.
Kamala Harris' Ascent: From Local Prosecutor to Presumptive Democratic Presidential Frontrunner
In 2010, Harris made history again by becoming the first woman elected as California's Attorney General. As AG, she continued to advocate for progressive policies, including environmental protection and affirmative action. She also prioritized prosecuting environmental crimes, obtaining millions in fines from oil companies.
In 2016, Harris ran for U.S. Senate and won by a significant margin. As a senator, she became known for her sharp questioning of witnesses during hearings and her advocacy for gun control, immigration reform, and healthcare access.
Kamala Harris' Ascent: From Local Prosecutor to Presumptive Democratic Presidential Frontrunner
Harris' background in law enforcement made her an appealing running mate for then-presidential candidate Joe Biden in 2020. She became the first woman and the first African American to serve as Vice President of the United States.
As Vice President, Harris has continued to advocate for her progressive priorities. She has focused on addressing issues such as gun violence, climate change, and healthcare. She has also played a key role in the Biden administration's efforts to combat the COVID-19 pandemic.
Kamala Harris' Ascent: From Local Prosecutor to Presumptive Democratic Presidential Frontrunner
Harris has not yet formally declared her candidacy for president in 2024, but she is widely expected to run. If she does so, she will face a crowded Democratic primary field that includes other potential candidates such as Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg and former presidential candidate Robert F. Kennedy Jr.
Harris' appeal to voters lies in her unique background, her strong policy positions, and her experience in government. She has a long track record of public service and is seen as a competent and charismatic leader. However, her critics argue that she is too inexperienced to be president and that her policies are too far left for the American public.
Kamala Harris' Ascent: From Local Prosecutor to Presumptive Democratic Presidential Frontrunner
Despite the criticism, Harris remains a formidable candidate in the 2024 presidential race. She has a large and enthusiastic base of supporters and is well-positioned to win the Democratic nomination.
