What Harris's years as a prosecutor reveal about who she is now

Kamala Harris, the current Vice President of the United States, recently delivered a significant speech that highlighted her past and her future ambitions. This speech came shortly after President Joe Biden withdrew from the election race and endorsed her as his successor for the Democratic nomination. With limited time to campaign, Harris needed to make a strong impression on the American public. In politics, there is a well-known saying: define yourself or allow your opponent to define you. In her address, Harris emphasized her experience as a California prosecutor, stating, 'I took on perpetrators of all kinds - predators who abused women, fraudsters who ripped off consumers, cheaters who broke the rules for their own gain. ' This statement has been echoed at her campaign rallies as she positions herself against her Republican opponent, Donald Trump, reminding voters of his legal troubles. A closer look at Harris's career reveals her ongoing struggle to define her identity in the political landscape. Critics argue that she has shifted her stance on various issues depending on the political climate. However, her ability to adapt and seize opportunities has been a hallmark of her career. Harris began her law enforcement journey shortly after graduating from law school in Alameda County, California, which includes cities like Berkeley and her hometown of Oakland. During the 1990s, Oakland faced a surge in violent crime amid the government's 'war on drugs. ' For a junior prosecutor, the job was incredibly challenging, but it was also seen as a prestigious position for an ambitious attorney. Teresa Drenick, a colleague of Harris, described the atmosphere as intense, filled with grief and serious cases. 'It was near the height of the crack-cocaine epidemic, with gang murders and street violence,' she recalled. Harris's confidence in the courtroom and her compassion for victims, especially children, earned her respect among her peers. As Harris navigated California's political landscape, she formed connections with influential figures, including Willie Brown, a prominent political leader who helped her gain access to key Democratic donors. Their brief relationship ended when Brown became mayor in 1995, but Harris's political career continued to flourish. In 2003, she won the election for San Francisco district attorney, defeating the man who had hired her. This victory marked a significant milestone in her career, as she began to establish herself as a formidable force in the political arena. However, her tenure as district attorney was not without controversy. In 2004, a police officer was tragically killed, and many called for the death penalty for the suspect. Harris, who had campaigned against capital punishment, chose to pursue a life sentence without parole instead. This decision drew criticism, especially from the officer's family, who felt blindsided by her announcement. Harris defended her choice, stating, 'There can be no exception to principle. ' This incident showcased her commitment to her beliefs, even in the face of public backlash. Throughout her career, Harris has faced scrutiny for her actions as a prosecutor. Some critics argue that she was not tough enough on crime, while others believe she was too harsh. She attempted to balance her role as a 'progressive prosecutor' focused on criminal justice reform while also being tough on crime. For instance, she implemented programs aimed at keeping non-violent offenders out of prison and ensuring young offenders received education instead of incarceration. However, her later support for the death penalty and other controversial decisions have led to mixed opinions about her. As she campaigns for the presidency, Harris is once again emphasizing her prosecutorial experience, but she is doing so in a different political environment. With rising crime rates and public safety concerns, her past may no longer be viewed as a liability. She is now trying to appeal to moderate voters who may be disillusioned with Trump. This shift in her positions has led to accusations of inconsistency, with some opponents labeling her a 'flip-flopper. ' Despite the challenges she has faced, Harris has consistently demonstrated her ability to adapt and navigate the complexities of her political career.