Kamala Harris

Kamala Harris is the 49th and current Vice President of the United States, serving under President Joe Biden since 2021. She is a trailblazer in American politics, being the first woman, first African-American, and first Asian-American to hold the office of Vice President.Born on October 20, 1964, in Oakland, California, Harris has had a distinguished career in public service. Prior to becoming Vice President, she served as:

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1. U.S. Senator from California (2017-2021)

2. Attorney General of California (2011-2017)

3. District Attorney of San Francisco (2004-2011)

 

As Vice President, Harris has been actively involved in various policy areas and initiatives:

1. Leading efforts to protect women's reproductive rights

2. Advocating for gun safety legislation

3. Promoting voting rights

4. Working on environmental issues, including clean water and air

 

On the international stage, Harris has represented the United States in numerous foreign trips, meeting with over 150 world leaders to strengthen global alliances.In her role as President of the Senate, Harris has set a new record for the most tie-breaking votes cast by a Vice President in history. She has been instrumental in passing significant legislation, including the Inflation Reduction Act. Looking ahead to the 2024 election, recent polling data shows Harris with a 45.0% approval rating as of July 1, 2024. This suggests she maintains a significant base of support, though the political landscape can change rapidly. Throughout her career, Harris has been known for her advocacy on issues such as healthcare reform, immigration policy (including support for the DREAM Act), and criminal justice reform. Her background as a prosecutor and her experience in various levels of government have shaped her approach to policy and leadership.

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Legislative Achievements

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1. Tie-Breaking Votes: Harris has set a record for the most tie-breaking votes cast by a Vice President in U.S. history, surpassing John C. Calhoun and John Adams.

2. American Rescue Plan: She played a crucial role in the passage of the $2 trillion COVID-19 relief stimulus package, known as the American Rescue Plan, which was initially stalled by Senate Republicans.

3. Inflation Reduction Act: Harris cast the decisive vote to secure the passage of the Inflation Reduction Act, the largest investment ever in tackling the climate crisis.

 

Advocacy and Policy Initiatives

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1. Reproductive Rights: Harris has been a vocal advocate for women's reproductive rights, especially after the Supreme Court overturned Roe v. Wade in 2022.

2. Gun Safety: She has led efforts to pass the first meaningful gun safety law in three decades.

3. Voting Rights: Harris has used her platform to call for the passage of the John Lewis Voting Rights Advancement Act and the Freedom to Vote Act.

4. Healthcare: She has supported the Affordable Care Act, worked to cap the cost of insulin, and expanded postpartum care through Medicaid.

 

Diplomatic Efforts

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1. International Representation: Harris has represented the United States in over 19 countries, meeting with more than 150 world leaders to strengthen global alliances.

2. Historic Visits: She was the first U.S. official to visit Palawan, a province of the Philippines, highlighting her role in diplomatic relations.

 

Social and Economic Advocacy

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1. HBCU Funding: As an alumna of Howard University, Harris has pushed for increased funding for Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs).

2. Economic Opportunity: She has been an advocate for the middle class, criticized policies benefiting the wealthy, and supported small business creation.

3. Maternal Health: Harris has championed maternal health and toured the country advocating for women's rights.

 

Infrastructure and Environmental Initiatives

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1. Infrastructure Investment: Harris has been involved in enacting a $1 trillion investment in the country's infrastructure, including removing lead pipes and improving public transit.

2. Climate Action: She has been active in delivering climate action through various legislative and policy efforts.

 

These accomplishments highlight Harris's active role in legislative processes, advocacy for social justice and economic equity, and her significant contributions to both domestic and international policy.