Vice President of United States of America
About The Leader
About The Leader
Kamala Harris's public service career has been filled with firsts, making history every step of the way
Kamala Harris (20 oct 1964) is the first female, first Black and first Asian-American Vice President of the United Stated of America
She became the district attorney for San Francisco in 2003 before being elected the first female and the first African American to serve as California's attorney general
Elected as US senator in 2017, she is only the second Black woman ever elected to the US senate
Her Purpose
From a young age, Harris dreamt of becoming a lawyer. Born to immigrant parents, she grew up believing in the promise of America and wanting to make sure that promise is fulfilled for all Americans.
“Don’t sit around and complain about things, do something,” said Harris's mother as she was growing up. This has driven Harris every single day.
She started working for working families in the Alameda Country District Attorney Office and later as San Francisco District Attorney, California Attorney General and US Senator for the state of California.
Her strong focus on social justice has led her to fight every day on behalf of people people battling injustice in the different governmental roles she's occupied -- from fighting for gay marriage rights to prosecuting transnational drug gangs.
"My daily challenge to myself is to be bar to the solution, to be a joyful warrior in the battle to come."
Case for Change
Case for Change
"We are going to bring our country closer to realizing its great promise. But to do it, we'll need to work, organize, and vote like never before. We need a mandate that proves that the past few years do not represent who we are or who we aspire to be."
Growth Gap
Growth Gap
“We’ll address economic insecurity and inequality, combat democratic corruption and promote respect for human rights.”
Investment Portfolio
Investment Portfolio
“USA can’t do this work alone. Our strategy focuses on our partnerships with other governments, international institutions, businesses, foundations, and civil society.”
Her Leadership Qualities
Her Leadership Qualities
Kamala Harris is an empathic and authentic leader who delivers powerful messages and results under intense scrutiny.
Fearless
Fearless
In 2012, during her first year as attorney general, Harris brokered a historic $18 billion settlement deal with America’s five largest mortgage companies citing improper foreclosure practices. She famously walked away from the initial settlement of $2-4 million, playing hardball.
Key Actions
Key Actions
When the Big Banks offered their deal, Harris thought they were fooling her, so she hired an outside consulting firm to analyze how the offer matched up to the damage done and found allies in other state attorneys general to support her.
She had intense pressure from the White House and other states to settle, but walked away from the talks playing hardball and later returned to secure a 5x deal.
Leadership Behaviors
Leadership Behaviors
Tenacious negotiation and risk taking
Confidence in her positions and has data-driven arguments to back them up.
Lesson Learned
Lesson Learned
As a leader, you have to trust your instincts and take some risks. Sometimes you will disagree with people you respect; nonetheless, use hard data and your instincts to take a stance on what you believe is right. Sometimes bold moves will lead you to tough negotiations, which can end in greater results.
Outspoken
Outspoken
Harris wrote an op-ed piece for USA Today criticizing the then government administration for its failures in handling the Covid-19 pandemic. In a clear, passionate and brave way she argued that the administration should lead with empathy and get things done; otherwise to step aside and let real leaders lead.
Key Actions
Key Actions
Harris has condemned the previous President for his handling of the COVID-19 pandemic and on the campaign trail she has repeatedly called for leaders to "listen to the scientists and the experts" on how to proceed. ,
Leadership Behaviors
Leadership Behaviors
Sets the tone to the conversation
Unafraid of facing conflict as a result of advocating to big changes
Lesson Learned
Lesson Learned
Leaders can't hold back. They have to use their voice to stand up for their values and drive transformation. Having a clear and passionate style of communication can resonate with many. As a leader it is important to know your story and what you stand for, and let others know it as well.
Charisma
Charisma
Harris commanded respect during the Vice Presidential debate when opponent Mike Pence attempted to talk over or downplay her expertise. In response she answered, "Mr. Vice President, I'm speaking,” and continued to present her arguments in a non-apologetic manner.
Key Actions
Key Actions
Harris has built her emotional intelligence to be assertive when speaking under stressful situations. During the vice-presidential debate, she kept her mind on her objective, spoke directly to the audience, showed enthusiasm by using her body language, and kept a pleasant demeanor at all times, despite the difficult issues being discussed.
Leadership Behaviors
Leadership Behaviors
Vocal and physical presence
Faces tense situations with grace
Lesson Learned
Lesson Learned
Driven by purpose means being prepared for any situation that may arise in order to achieve important goals, command a room, and make your presence felt.
The focus on putting forward your message, acknowledging the viewer, and making it clear you are there to make an important point.
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