Will U.S. See First Female President?

KAZI ABUL MONSUR,JOURNALIST#

The U.S. election is approaching, and there’s a lot of excitement. This time, wealthy Donald Trump is up against a female candidate, Kamala Harris, who is highly popular among American women. They admire her style, gestures, and way of speaking. Many believe the U.S. might see its first female president.

Kamala Devi Harris was born on October 20, 1964, in Oakland, California, to parents who immigrated to the U.S. for academic pursuits. Her mother, Shyamala Gopalan, was a cancer researcher from India, and her father, Donald Harris, is an economist from Jamaica. Harris’s parents divorced when she was seven, and her mother primarily raised her and her sister, Maya. They lived in a predominantly African American community, and Kamala was influenced by her mother’s teachings, blending her Indian and Black heritage.

Kamala attended Howard University, a historically Black college in Washington, D.C., where she earned a degree in political science and economics. Later, she attended the University of California, Hastings College of the Law, and earned her law degree in 1989. After passing the bar, she began her legal career as a deputy district attorney in Alameda County, California, where she prosecuted cases involving drug trafficking, assault, and homicide.

Kamala’s entry into politics began with her election as District Attorney of San Francisco in 2003. She made a name for herself by focusing on crime prevention, launching initiatives like “Back on Track” to reduce recidivism. In 2010, she was elected as the Attorney General of California, where she served two terms. Her record as AG was mixed; she was known for her work on climate change, consumer protection, and criminal justice reform, but she also faced criticism for being tough on truancy and some criminal justice policies.

In 2016, Harris won a U.S. Senate seat, representing California. As a senator, she served on various committees and was known for her strong stance on civil rights, immigration reform, and social justice issues. In 2020, Joe Biden selected Harris as his running mate, and she became the first woman, the first Black person, and the first South Asian to be elected Vice President of the United States.

Kamala married lawyer Doug Emhoff in 2014, gaining two stepchildren, Cole and Ella. She is known for her close relationship with her sister, Maya, who was also a senior advisor during her presidential campaign. Kamala Harris’s life reflects a blend of cultural influences and a commitment to social justice and public service, making her a pivotal figure in U.S. politics today.
Kamala Harris is indeed often described as brave, particularly for her trailblazing roles in politics and her advocacy for marginalized communities. Throughout her career, she has taken significant stands on issues like criminal justice reform, civil rights, and healthcare, often facing opposition and scrutiny.

Her bravery can be seen in her willingness to confront powerful adversaries and tackle difficult subjects, especially during her time in the Senate and as Vice President. For instance, during Senate hearings, she has been known for her sharp questioning and ability to challenge established norms. Harris also speaks candidly about issues of race and gender, sharing her own experiences as a woman of color in politics, which adds a personal and impactful dimension to her advocacy.

Moreover, she has publicly championed policies aimed at social justice, including initiatives to address systemic racism and inequality. Her role in history as the first female Vice President and the first woman of Black and South Asian descent in this position marks a significant step forward in representation and diversity in U.S. politics.
As California’s Attorney General, Harris was instrumental in securing a $20 billion settlement for homeowners affected by the 2008 foreclosure crisis. She stood up to major banks and refused to settle for a lower amount, insisting on fair compensation for Californians who had lost their homes. This bold stance was pivotal in helping homeowners receive the assistance they deservedealthcare Advocacy: In the Senate, Harris supported Medicare for All and consistently advocated for affordable healthcare. She co-sponsored the Medicare for All bill in 2017, demonstrating her commitment to expanding healthcare access despite significant opposition .

In 2013, Harris made headlines by refusing to defend Proposition 8, a California ballot measure that banned same-sex marriage. Her decision, even in the face of conservative opposition, ultimately led to the legalization of same-sex marriage in California . Senate HeHarris’s sharp questioning of high-profile figures like then-Attorney General Jeff Sessions and Justice Brett Kavanaugh during Senate Judiciary Committee hearings showcased her courage and resolve. She gained attention for her intense questioning style, holding officials accountable on issues of transparency and ethics .

Harris advocated for pandemic relief measures, including direct cash payments and small business support, to help vulnerable communities weather the economic impact of COVID-19. This push for economic support showed her commitment to helping those hit hardest by the pandemic.

Kamala Harris’s role as Vice President has sparked discussions about her potential as a future presidential candidate, with some Americans, especially women, seeing her as a progressive option for the White House. Many appreciate her work on issues like abortion rights, voting rights, and immigration, though there is debate around her specific achievements and political record. While not universally supported, her policies and visibility as the first female, first Black, and first South Asian vice president have contributed to her popularity among progressive groups.
It’s uncertain if the United States will elect a female president in 2024, but Kamala Harris’s role as Vice President has put her on a path that could lead to the presidency. Her unique background and record on key issues resonate with some voters, especially women, who see her as a capable leader. However, the path to a presidency is highly competitive, and whether Harris, or another female candidate, becomes the next president will depend on numerous factors, including her support and performance in the coming election.##