Kamala Harris is the 49th and current Vice President of the United States, serving under President Joe Biden. She holds the distinction of being the first female, first African-American, and first Asian-American to hold this position. Prior to becoming Vice President, Harris had a successful career in law and politics. She served as the Attorney General of California from 2011 to 2017 and as a U.S. Senator for California from 2017 to 2021. Her achievements have marked significant milestones in American history and paved the way for greater representation in leadership roles.
1914: California Begins Direct Election of Senators
In 1914, California transitioned to the direct election of senators, a significant shift in the state's political landscape. This change allowed voters to directly choose their representatives in the US Senate.
1929: Charles Curtis as Vice President
Charles Curtis, a Native American, served as Vice President under Herbert Hoover from 1929 to 1933.
1933: End of Curtis's Vice Presidency
Charles Curtis's term as Vice President ended in 1933.
1958: Arrival of Shyamala Gopalan in the United States
Kamala Harris's mother, Shyamala Gopalan, moved to the United States from India as a graduate student in 1958.
1961: Arrival of Donald J. Harris in the United States
Kamala Harris's father, Donald J. Harris, came to the United States from British Jamaica in 1961 for graduate studies.
October 20, 1964: Birth of Kamala Harris
Kamala Devi Harris was born on October 20, 1964.
1966: Meeting of Kamala Harris's Parents and Donald Harris's PhD
Donald Harris earned his PhD in economics in 1966. He had met his future wife, Shyamala Gopalan, at a college club for African-American students.
1966: Relocation to Champaign, Illinois
In 1966, the Harris family, including Kamala, moved to Champaign, Illinois, where Kamala's younger sister, Maya, was born. This move coincided with their parents taking up positions at the University of Illinois.
1970: Move back to California and School Desegregation Experience
Kamala Harris, her mother, and sister returned to California in 1970. Kamala became part of Berkeley's desegregation program and was bused to Thousand Oaks Elementary School, a school in a predominantly white neighborhood.
1975: Expungement of Marijuana Offenses
Kamala Harris's successor as San Francisco District Attorney, George Gascón, expunged all San Francisco marijuana offenses dating back to 1975.
1981: Graduation from Westmount High School
Kamala Harris graduated from Westmount High School in Westmount, Quebec, in 1981.
1989: Graduation from Law School
Kamala Harris graduated with a Juris Doctor degree from the University of California, Hastings College of the Law in 1989.
June 1990: Admission to the California Bar
Kamala Harris was admitted to the California Bar in June 1990 after graduating with a Juris Doctor degree.
1990: Start of Career as Deputy District Attorney
Kamala Harris's legal career began in 1990 when she was hired as a deputy district attorney in Alameda County, California.
1994: Appointments to State Boards and Media Scrutiny
In 1994, while dating then-Speaker of the California Assembly Willie Brown, Kamala Harris received appointments to the state Unemployment Insurance Appeals Board and the California Medical Assistance Commission. Media reports highlighted these appointments as part of a pattern of California politicians appointing associates to advantageous positions. Harris has defended her work on these boards.
February 1998: Joining the San Francisco District Attorney's Office
Kamala Harris joined the San Francisco District Attorney's Office as an assistant district attorney in February 1998, recruited by Terence Hallinan.
August 2000: Work at San Francisco City Hall
In August 2000, Kamala Harris began working at San Francisco City Hall under City Attorney Louise Renne, leading the Family and Children's Services Division.
2000: Clash with Hallinan's Assistant and Resignation
In 2000, Kamala Harris had a disagreement with Darrell Salomon, assistant to District Attorney Hallinan, regarding Proposition 21, which dealt with trying juvenile offenders in Superior Court. Harris's opposition to the proposition, which eventually passed, led to her reassignment and subsequent resignation.
2001: Brief Relationship with Montel Williams
In 2001, Kamala Harris had a brief romantic relationship with talk show host Montel Williams.
2002: San Francisco District Attorney Election
In 2002, Kamala Harris ran for District Attorney of San Francisco against incumbent Terence Hallinan and Bill Fazio. Despite being the least known candidate, she successfully lobbied the Central Committee to withhold their endorsement of Hallinan. Harris and Hallinan advanced to a runoff election.
2003: Election as San Francisco District Attorney
In 2003, Kamala Harris was elected as the District Attorney of San Francisco.
2004: California passes Prop 69 for DNA collection
California's Prop 69, passed in 2004, mandated DNA collection from adults arrested for felonies and certain other crimes.
2004: Kamala Harris Resists Pressure to Seek Death Penalty
Despite pressure from prominent figures like Senator Dianne Feinstein and the San Francisco Police Officers Association following the killing of police officer Isaac Espinoza, Kamala Harris stood by her campaign promise and refused to seek the death penalty.
2004: High Conviction Rates Under Harris
From 2004 to 2006, Kamala Harris's tenure as San Francisco District Attorney saw high conviction rates, including an 87% conviction rate for homicides and a 90% conviction rate for felony gun violations.
2004: Creation of Back on Track Reentry Program
In 2004, Kamala Harris established the San Francisco Reentry Division, bringing in civil rights activist Lateefah Simon to lead the effort. A key initiative was the "Back on Track" program, focusing on first-time, non-violent offenders aged 18-30.
2005: Thurgood Marshall Award and Recognition as a Powerful Woman
In 2005, Kamala Harris received the prestigious Thurgood Marshall Award from the National Black Prosecutors Association, recognizing her contributions to the legal profession. Notably, she was also featured in a Newsweek report highlighting "20 of America's Most Powerful Women," further solidifying her rising influence.
2005: Creation of Environmental Crimes Unit
In the summer of 2005, Kamala Harris, as San Francisco District Attorney, established an Environmental Crimes Unit.
September 2006: Gwen Araujo Justice for Victims Act Signed into Law
In September 2006, California Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger signed Assembly Bill 1160, the Gwen Araujo Justice for Victims Act, into law. This law, supported by then-San Francisco District Attorney Kamala Harris, aimed to prevent the use of "gay panic defense" and prohibited acquittals or reduced convictions based on "social bias."
2006: Truancy Rates Decline
By April 2009, San Francisco saw a significant decrease in truancy rates among elementary school students, with a drop from 2,856 in 2006, attributed in part to Harris' initiatives.
2006: Combating Truancy in San Francisco
In 2006, Kamala Harris, then District Attorney of San Francisco, spearheaded a city-wide initiative to address the issue of truancy among at-risk elementary school students, linking it to public safety concerns.
2006: High Conviction Rates Under Harris
From 2004 to 2006, Kamala Harris's tenure as San Francisco District Attorney saw high conviction rates, including an 87% conviction rate for homicides and a 90% conviction rate for felony gun violations.
August 2007: Effort to Ban Gun Shows at Cow Palace
In August 2007, Kamala Harris joined Assemblyman Mark Leno, Police Chief Heather Fong, and Mayor Gavin Newsom in advocating for legislation to ban gun shows at the Cow Palace in San Francisco. They argued that these shows were contributing to illegal gun proliferation and rising homicide rates in the city.
November 2007: Re-election as San Francisco District Attorney
In November 2007, Kamala Harris ran unopposed for a second term as District Attorney of San Francisco.
2007: Truancy Rates Decline
By April 2009, San Francisco saw a significant decrease in truancy rates among elementary school students, with a drop from 2,517 in 2007, attributed in part to Harris' initiatives.
2007: Investigation of San Francisco Supervisor Ed Jew
In 2007, Kamala Harris, along with City Attorney Dennis Herrera, initiated an investigation into San Francisco Supervisor Ed Jew. The investigation focused on Jew's violation of residency requirements necessary for his position.
October 2008: Ed Jew Pleads Guilty
In October 2008, San Francisco Supervisor Ed Jew, under investigation by then-District Attorney Kamala Harris, pleaded guilty to federal corruption charges, including mail fraud, soliciting a bribe, and extortion. The following month, he pleaded guilty to perjury in state court for lying about his address on nomination forms.
2008: Passage of Proposition 8
California voters approved Proposition 8, a constitutional amendment restricting marriage to opposite-sex couples.
2008: Identified as a Potential Future President
In 2008, a New York Times article identified Kamala Harris as a woman with the potential to become President of the United States. The article highlighted her reputation as a formidable and determined leader, qualities that resonated with observers and fueled speculation about her political future.
2008: First Truancy Citations Issued
In 2008, Kamala Harris' office issued citations to six parents whose children had missed at least fifty days of school, marking the first time San Francisco prosecuted adults for student truancy.
April 2009: Truancy Rates Decline
By April 2009, San Francisco saw a significant decrease in truancy rates among elementary school students, with a 23% drop from the previous year, attributed in part to Harris' initiatives.
2009: Life Sentence Sought for Edwin Ramos
In 2009, Kamala Harris pursued a sentence of life in prison without parole for Edwin Ramos, an undocumented immigrant and alleged MS-13 gang member accused of a triple homicide. Her decision received backing from then-Mayor Gavin Newsom.
2009: Back on Track Reentry Act (AB 750)
In 2009, the California Legislature passed the Back on Track Reentry Act (AB 750), encouraging counties across the state to implement reentry programs similar to Kamala Harris's successful Back on Track initiative in San Francisco.
June 8, 2010: Harris Wins Democratic Primary for Attorney General
On June 8, 2010, Kamala Harris secured the Democratic nomination for California Attorney General, defeating Alberto Torrico and Chris Kelly in the primary election.
2010: Pledge to Not Defend Proposition 8
Both Jerry Brown and Kamala Harris, during their respective campaigns for California attorney general, pledged not to defend Proposition 8 in court.
2010: Creation of Mortgage Fraud Strike Force
In 2011, following the 2010 foreclosure crisis, Harris established the Mortgage Fraud Strike Force to address illegal foreclosure practices.
2010: Election as Attorney General of California
Kamala Harris was elected as the Attorney General of California in 2010.
January 3, 2011: Harris Sworn in as Attorney General of California
Kamala Harris was sworn in as the Attorney General of California on January 3, 2011, becoming the first woman, the first African American, and the first South Asian American to hold the position.
2011: Opposition to Federal Prison Oversight
Following the Supreme Court's ruling in Brown v. Plata, which found California's prisons overcrowded, Kamala Harris opposed federal oversight of the state's prison system.
2011: Harris urges penalties for truancy
In 2011, Harris pushed for criminal penalties for parents of truant children, a move that drew criticism for potentially harming families.
2011: Creation of Mortgage Fraud Strike Force
In 2011, following the 2010 foreclosure crisis, Harris established the Mortgage Fraud Strike Force to address illegal foreclosure practices.
2011: Harris Targets Tech Crimes as Attorney General
In 2011, then-California Attorney General Kamala Harris secured a four-year prison sentence for a stalker who exploited social media for criminal activity. Recognizing the internet's potential for crime, Harris established the eCrime Unit within the California Department of Justice, dedicating 20 attorneys to address technology-related offenses.
2011: Harris Targets Transnational Criminal Organizations
Throughout her tenure as Attorney General, Kamala Harris prioritized addressing transnational criminal activity. In 2011, her office led investigations and prosecutions against organizations like the Tijuana Cartel, Nuestra Familia, Norteños, and the Vagos Motorcycle Club, resulting in significant arrests and asset seizures.
February 2012: Privacy Policy Mandate for Mobile Apps and Creation of Privacy Unit
In February 2012, Kamala Harris spearheaded an agreement with major tech companies, including Apple, Amazon, Google, and others, to require mobile apps sold in their stores to display clear privacy policies. This initiative aimed to inform users about data collection practices. Later that year, she established a Privacy Enforcement and Protection Unit within the California Department of Justice.
2012: Neutral Stance on Proposition 36
Kamala Harris chose not to take a public position on Proposition 36, a criminal sentencing reform initiative, arguing that her role as attorney general, responsible for preparing ballot materials, prevented her from doing so.
2012: Harris Secures Larger Settlement for California Homeowners
In 2012, Harris successfully negotiated a larger settlement for California homeowners from major mortgage firms accused of illegal foreclosures, increasing the relief package to $18.4 billion.
2012: Harris Takes Action Against Human Trafficking
In 2012, then-California Attorney General Kamala Harris signed an agreement with Mexican Attorney General Marisela Morales to strengthen collaboration on combating human trafficking across the US-Mexico border. Harris also successfully advocated for the passage of two bills to combat human trafficking, further solidifying her commitment to addressing this issue. Later that year, Harris released a comprehensive report highlighting the growing problem of human trafficking in California and emphasizing the involvement of transnational criminal organizations.
2012: California clears DNA backlog
By 2012, the California Department of Justice, under Harris's leadership, improved its DNA testing capabilities, clearing the state's DNA backlog.
February 2013: Amicus Curiae Brief Against Proposition 8
Kamala Harris filed an amicus curiae brief arguing for the unconstitutionality of Proposition 8 and challenging the legal standing of its proponents to defend it in federal court.
June 2013: Supreme Court Ruling and Advocacy for Marriage Equality
Following the Supreme Court's ruling that Proposition 8's proponents lacked standing to defend it, Kamala Harris advocated for the swift lifting of the ban on same-sex marriages in California.
November 2013: Launch of Recidivism Reduction and Re-Entry Division
In November 2013, Kamala Harris established the California Department of Justice's Division of Recidivism Reduction and Re-Entry, collaborating with district attorney offices to support formerly incarcerated individuals.
2013: Harris Pursues Financial Recoveries for State Pensions
From 2013 to 2015, Harris pursued and secured significant financial recoveries for California's public employee and teacher pension funds from financial institutions involved in misrepresenting mortgage-backed securities.
2013: Report highlights chronic absenteeism
Harris released a report titled "In School + On Track" in 2013, revealing that over 250,000 elementary students in California were chronically absent.
2013: Harris Declines to Prosecute OneWest Bank
In 2013, Harris chose not to pursue a civil complaint against OneWest Bank, owned by a group led by future Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin, despite allegations of foreclosure law violations.
2013: Introduction of the Homeowner Bill of Rights
In 2013, Harris collaborated with legislative leaders to introduce and pass the Homeowner Bill of Rights, providing significant protections for Californians against aggressive foreclosure practices.
2013: First Time 100 Recognition
In 2013, Kamala Harris achieved recognition on Time magazine's prestigious Time 100 list, which annually identifies the world's 100 most influential individuals. This marked her first appearance on the list, highlighting her growing prominence on the national stage.
2013: Meeting Doug Emhoff
In 2013, Kamala Harris embarked on a blind date orchestrated by a mutual friend, which led her to meet her future husband, attorney Doug Emhoff. At the time, Emhoff was an entertainment lawyer and a partner-in-charge at Venable LLP's Los Angeles office.
February 2014: Harris Announces Re-election Bid
In February 2014, Kamala Harris announced her intention to seek re-election as California Attorney General and filed the necessary paperwork.
February 2014: Michelle-Lael Norsworthy files lawsuit
In February 2014, transgender inmate Michelle-Lael Norsworthy filed a lawsuit against the California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation for not providing her with sex reassignment surgery.
August 22, 2014: Marriage to Doug Emhoff
On August 22, 2014, Kamala Harris and Doug Emhoff exchanged vows in a wedding ceremony held in Santa Barbara, California, marking the beginning of their married life.
September 2014: Controversy Over Inmate Firefighting Labor
A court filing by Kamala Harris's office opposing the early release of prisoners due to the need for inmate firefighting labor sparked controversy. Harris distanced herself from the memo, stating that she had been unaware of it.
November 4, 2014: Harris Re-elected as Attorney General
Kamala Harris won re-election as California Attorney General on November 4, 2014, defeating Republican challenger Ronald Gold with 57.5% of the vote.
2014: Re-election as Attorney General of California
Kamala Harris was re-elected for a second term as the Attorney General of California in 2014.
2014: Harris Cracks Down on Money Laundering in LA Fashion District
In 2014, Kamala Harris led a crackdown on businesses in the Los Angeles Fashion District accused of operating a major money-laundering hub for Mexican narcotics traffickers. This operation demonstrated her commitment to disrupting the financial infrastructure supporting organized crime.
2014: Harris Settles Charges Against Aaron's
In 2014, Harris settled charges against rent-to-own company Aaron's, resulting in $28.4 million in refunds to California customers and $3.4 million in penalties for alleged overcharging and privacy violations.
2014: Neutral Stance on Proposition 47
Similar to her stance on Proposition 36, Kamala Harris remained neutral on Proposition 47, another criminal sentencing reform initiative, citing her role as attorney general.
2014: Defense of California's Death Penalty
In 2014, as California's Attorney General, Harris made the controversial decision to defend the state's death penalty in court, drawing criticism from criminal justice reformers.
2014: Banning the Gay and Trans Panic Defense
Kamala Harris co-sponsored legislation, which successfully passed, to ban the use of the gay and trans panic defense in California courts, making it the first state to implement such a law.
2014: Harris Addresses Transnational Crime with International Collaboration
In 2014, then-California Attorney General Kamala Harris released a report titled "Gangs Beyond Borders: California and the Fight Against Transnational Crime." The report examined the growing issue of transnational crime, focusing on the roles of various criminal organizations, including Mexican drug cartels, Armenian Power, 18th Street Gang, and MS-13. Demonstrating her commitment to cross-border collaboration, Harris led a delegation of state attorneys general to Mexico City to discuss strategies for combating transnational crime. She also hosted a summit with officials from the United States, Mexico, and El Salvador to explore the use of technology in addressing these challenges.
January 2015: Harris Announces Candidacy for US Senate
Following Senator Barbara Boxer's announcement that she would not seek re-election in 2016, Kamala Harris seized the opportunity and announced her candidacy for the US Senate seat. Her entry into the race positioned her as a prominent contender from the outset.
March 2015: Creation of "Back on Track LA" Pilot Program
Kamala Harris introduced the "Back on Track LA" pilot program in March 2015, partnering with the Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department. This program, similar to the earlier "Back on Track" initiative, aimed to provide education, job training, and support to first-time, non-violent offenders aged 18 to 30.
April 2015: Federal judge rules in favor of Norsworthy
In April 2015, a federal judge ordered the state of California to provide Norsworthy with sex reassignment surgery, stating that the prison officials were "deliberately indifferent to her serious medical need".
April 2015: Harris introduces implicit bias training for law enforcement
In April 2015, Harris introduced the first-of-its-kind "Principled Policing: Procedural Justice and Implicit Bias" training for law enforcement officers.
August 2015: Norsworthy released on parole
In August 2015, Norsworthy was released on parole, rendering her lawsuit moot as the state was no longer obligated to provide her with medical care.
2015: Harris Leads Prosecution of "Revenge Porn" Perpetrators
In a landmark legal action in 2015, Kamala Harris, serving as California's Attorney General, spearheaded the prosecution of individuals operating "revenge porn" websites. These individuals were convicted of felonies and received significant prison sentences. Notably, Kevin Bollaert's conviction on 21 counts of identity theft and six counts of extortion, leading to an 18-year sentence, set a legal precedent.
2015: Settlements with Comcast and Houzz over Privacy Violations
Kamala Harris secured two settlements with Comcast in 2015, addressing allegations of privacy violations. One settlement involved the unauthorized disclosure of customer information, while the other concerned the improper disposal of paper records containing private data. Additionally, she reached a settlement with Houzz for recording phone calls without consent, leading to the company being required to hire a chief privacy officer.
2015: Harris Continues Crackdown on Transnational Crime
Kamala Harris's efforts to combat transnational crime continued in 2015 with significant actions against organizations like the Norteños and the Crips. Her office's work focused on dismantling criminal networks involved in various illicit activities, including drug trafficking and smuggling.
2015: Judgment Against Corinthian Colleges and Settlement with JP Morgan Chase
In 2015, then-California Attorney General Kamala Harris secured a $1.2 billion judgment against Corinthian Colleges for misleading marketing practices that targeted vulnerable, low-income students. The same year, she negotiated a $60 million settlement with JP Morgan Chase to address allegations of improper debt collection practices affecting credit card customers.
2015: Harris investigates anti-abortion activist
In 2015, Harris announced an investigation into an anti-abortion activist who secretly recorded Planned Parenthood doctors.
2015: Harris secures settlements for hazardous material violations
From 2015 to 2016, Harris secured settlements from companies like Chevron, BP, and others for not properly monitoring hazardous materials in underground storage tanks.
2015: Harris Pursues Financial Recoveries for State Pensions
From 2013 to 2015, Harris pursued and secured significant financial recoveries for California's public employee and teacher pension funds from financial institutions involved in misrepresenting mortgage-backed securities.
2015: Harris investigates Refugio oil spill
Following the Refugio oil spill in 2015, Harris directed her office to investigate potential criminal violations.
2015: Investigation into San Onofre Nuclear Generating Station Closure
Kamala Harris launched an investigation in 2015 into the closure of the San Onofre Nuclear Generating Station, focusing on the Office of Ratepayer Advocates, San Diego Gas and Electric, and Southern California Edison. The investigation involved allegations of improper dealings and financial implications for taxpayers.
February 2016: Harris Secures Endorsements and Support in Senate Race
Kamala Harris's campaign for the US Senate gained significant traction in February 2016. She secured a resounding victory at the California Democratic Party convention, winning 78% of the vote and securing the party's financial support. This victory solidified her position as the frontrunner in the race.
November 2016: Harris Elected to US Senate
Kamala Harris achieved a significant victory in November 2016, winning the election for the US Senate seat in California. Her victory marked a historic moment, as she became the first Indian American and the second African American woman to serve in the US Senate.
December 2016: Harris appeals order to take over mass murder case
In December 2016, Harris appealed a judge's order to take over the prosecution of a mass murder case from the Orange County district attorney's office.
2016: Russian Interference in the US Presidential Election
In 2016, the United States experienced an unprecedented event: interference by a foreign power in its presidential election. Russia's actions, aimed at influencing the outcome of the election, raised serious concerns about the integrity of democratic processes and national security.
2016: Harris Campaigns for US Senate
Throughout 2016, Kamala Harris actively campaigned for the US Senate seat in California. Her campaign gained significant momentum, establishing her as a frontrunner in the race.
2016: Closure of San Onofre Investigation
The investigation into the San Onofre Nuclear Generating Station closure, initiated by Kamala Harris, was closed in 2016 during her campaign for the U.S. Senate.
2016: Harris Pursues Backpage for Alleged Prostitution and Sex Trafficking
In 2016, then-California Attorney General Kamala Harris took action against Backpage, a classified advertising website, for its alleged role in prostitution and sex trafficking. Harris's office arrested Backpage CEO Carl Ferrer on felony charges, alleging that a substantial portion of the company's revenue was linked to prostitution-related ads, many of which involved underage victims.
2016: Volkswagen emissions scandal settlement
In 2016, Volkswagen agreed to a $14.7 billion settlement for using defeat devices to cheat emissions standards, with California receiving a significant portion.
2016: Election to the U.S. Senate
In 2016, Kamala Harris was elected to the U.S. Senate, defeating Loretta Sanchez.
2016: Bernie Sanders' Fundraising Record
In 2016, Bernie Sanders set a record for the most donations raised in the day following a presidential candidacy announcement, a record that Harris later tied.
2016: Harris seizes evidence from anti-abortion activist
Harris's office seized videos and other evidence from the anti-abortion activist in 2016.
2016: Harris investigates Kern County law enforcement agencies
Harris launched an investigation into the Bakersfield Police Department and the Kern County Sheriff's Department for alleged civil rights violations and excessive force in 2016.
2016: Harris's Office Targets Mexican Mafia and Money Laundering
Continuing her pursuit of dismantling transnational criminal networks, Kamala Harris's office, in 2016, targeted the Mexican Mafia and businesses in the Los Angeles Fashion District suspected of involvement in money laundering for Mexican drug traffickers. These actions demonstrated Harris's commitment to disrupting the financial infrastructure of criminal enterprises.
2016: Harris Accepts Donation from Mnuchin
During the 2016 elections, Harris received a campaign donation from Mnuchin, drawing criticism due to his alleged profiting from the subprime mortgage crisis through OneWest Bank.
February 2017: Harris Votes Against Mnuchin's Confirmation
In February 2017, Harris voted against Mnuchin's confirmation as Treasury Secretary, despite having previously accepted a campaign donation from him.
May 2017: Harris Questions Officials Over Comey Firing
In May 2017, during a Senate Intelligence Committee hearing, Senator Kamala Harris gained attention for her pointed questioning of Rod Rosenstein, the Deputy Attorney General, regarding his role in the firing of FBI Director James Comey. Harris's questioning style, characterized by its prosecutorial tone, drew criticism from some senators, including interruptions from Senator John McCain and Committee Chairman Richard Burr. The following week, Harris questioned Attorney General Jeff Sessions on the same topic, eliciting a comment from Sessions that her questioning made him "nervous." Harris's interactions with Rosenstein and Sessions during these hearings sparked debates about the appropriateness of her questioning style and whether she faced unfair scrutiny compared to her male colleagues.
August 2017: Formation of #KHive
The online group #KHive emerged in August 2017, using the hashtag to express support for Kamala Harris and counter racist and sexist attacks against her.
April 2018: Backpage Shut Down After Harris-Led Investigations
Following years of investigations spearheaded by then-California Attorney General Kamala Harris, Backpage and its affiliated websites were shut down by federal law enforcement in April 2018. The investigations focused on the platform's role in facilitating prostitution and sex trafficking.
June 2018: Potential Presidential Run
In June 2018, Kamala Harris hinted at a possible presidential run, stating she was "not ruling it out."
July 2018: Memoir Announcement
In July 2018, Kamala Harris announced the upcoming publication of her memoir, further fueling speculation about a potential presidential bid.
October 2018: Harris Targeted in Mail Bombing Attempts
In a disturbing event that shook the nation in October 2018, Senator Kamala Harris was among the targets of mail bombing attempts. This incident highlighted the increasing threats and dangers faced by public figures and elected officials.
2018: Georgia and Florida Gubernatorial Elections
In 2018, Stacey Abrams and Andrew Gillum lost the gubernatorial elections in Georgia and Florida, respectively. Harris later claimed "voter suppression" as the cause of their defeats.
January 21, 2019: Presidential Candidacy Announcement
Kamala Harris formally announced her candidacy for President of the United States in the 2020 election on January 21, 2019. She garnered significant attention, tying a fundraising record set by Bernie Sanders in 2016.
March 2019: Harris Calls for Barr's Testimony on Mueller Report
Following the submission of Special Counsel Robert Mueller's report on Russian interference in the 2016 presidential election, Senator Kamala Harris called for US Attorney General William Barr to testify before Congress. Harris's call for transparency came amid concerns about the handling and interpretation of the Mueller Report's findings.
May 1, 2019: Senate Judiciary Committee Testimony
On May 1, 2019, then-Senator Kamala Harris questioned Attorney General William Barr about his handling of the Mueller report, particularly his decision not to charge President Trump with obstruction of justice. Harris challenged Barr's claim of having reviewed underlying evidence and accused him of potential perjury, calling for his resignation.
May 5, 2019: Claims of Voter Suppression
On May 5, 2019, Harris attributed the 2018 gubernatorial election losses of Stacey Abrams in Georgia and Andrew Gillum in Florida to "voter suppression." This claim was disputed by election law expert Richard L. Hasen.
May 2019: Endorsement for Biden-Harris Ticket
In May 2019, prominent members of the Congressional Black Caucus began advocating for a Biden-Harris presidential ticket.
June 2019: First Democratic Presidential Debate
During the first Democratic presidential debate in June 2019, Harris confronted Joe Biden about his past remarks regarding segregationist senators, leading to a significant boost in her poll numbers. However, her performance in the second debate in August, where she faced criticism for her record as Attorney General, resulted in a decline in support.
August 2019: Estimated Net Worth
As of August 2019, Kamala Harris and her husband, Doug Emhoff, had an estimated net worth of $5.8 million, reflecting their successful careers in law and public service.
December 3, 2019: Withdrawal from Presidential Race
Citing financial constraints, Kamala Harris withdrew from the 2020 Democratic presidential race on December 3, 2019.
2019: Cow Palace Bans Gun Shows
In 2019, the Cow Palace Board of Directors voted to ban all future gun shows, a move that aligned with the stance Kamala Harris had taken years earlier when she advocated against gun shows at the venue.
2019: Harris Cites Past Cases in Support of Cyber Exploitation Victim
When California Congresswoman Katie Hill faced cyber exploitation from her ex-husband in 2019, then-Senator Kamala Harris cited her previous work prosecuting "revenge porn" cases. Harris's actions highlighted the ongoing need to address online harassment and exploitation.
2019: Plains All American Pipeline found guilty
In 2019, Plains All American Pipeline was found guilty of failing to maintain its pipeline properly, leading to the 2015 oil spill.
2019: Harris' Campaign Defends OneWest Decision
In 2019, Harris' campaign defended her 2013 decision not to prosecute OneWest Bank, citing legal limitations and the bank's federal status as obstacles.
2019: Harris takes responsibility for briefs filed in Norsworthy case
In 2019, Harris took "full responsibility" for the briefs her office filed in Norsworthy's case and other similar cases.
January 16, 2020: Remarks on Impeachment Trial
On January 16, 2020, before the start of President Trump's impeachment trial, Senator Harris delivered a speech emphasizing the importance of the American justice system and the principle that no one is above the law. She also successfully requested a halt to judicial nominations during the trial.
March 2020: Endorsement of Joe Biden
Kamala Harris endorsed Joe Biden for president in March 2020, following her withdrawal from the Democratic primary race.
April 17, 2020: Response to Running Mate Speculation
As speculation grew about potential running mates for Joe Biden, Kamala Harris responded on April 17, 2020, saying she "would be honored" to serve in that capacity.
August 11, 2020: Selection as Vice Presidential Nominee
Joe Biden announced Kamala Harris as his running mate on August 11, 2020, making her the first African American, first Indian American, and third woman to be nominated for vice president by a major party.
2020: Biden-Harris Victory and Viral Moment
The Biden-Harris ticket won the 2020 United States presidential election. A recording of Harris congratulating Biden with the words, "We did it! We did it, Joe. You're going to be the next President of the United States," went viral, becoming one of the most shared tweets of the year.
2020: Selection as Joe Biden's Running Mate and Victory in the Presidential Election
Kamala Harris was chosen by Joe Biden as his running mate for the 2020 presidential election. Their ticket won against the incumbent president and vice president, Donald Trump and Mike Pence.
2020: 2020 US Presidential Election
Kamala Harris officially ran for President of the United States in the 2020 election.
2020: Time Person of the Year
In a historic moment, Kamala Harris and Joe Biden were jointly named Time Person of the Year for 2020. This prestigious recognition acknowledged their historic victory in the US presidential election and the transformative impact they were expected to have on the nation.
2020: Childhood Friendship's Impact on Kamala Harris's Career
In 2020, Wanda Kagan, Harris's high school best friend, shared how Harris supported her after Kagan revealed her stepfather's abuse. Kagan suggested that this experience influenced Harris's dedication to safeguarding women and children as a prosecutor.
2020: Inauguration as Vice President
Following their victory in the 2020 election, Kamala Harris was inaugurated as the 49th Vice President of the United States on January 20, 2021, marking several historic firsts: the first female vice president, the highest-ranking female elected official in U.S. history, and the first African American and Asian American vice president.
2020: Biden's South Carolina Primary Win and Running Mate Considerations
Joe Biden's decisive victory in the 2020 South Carolina Democratic primary, coupled with endorsements from figures like Jim Clyburn, solidified his frontrunner status. Clyburn's subsequent suggestion that Biden choose a black woman as his running mate fueled speculation about potential candidates, including Harris.
January 18, 2021: Resignation from Senate
On January 18, 2021, Kamala Harris resigned from her Senate seat in preparation for her inauguration as Vice President of the United States. Her seat was filled by Alex Padilla, California's Secretary of State.
January 20, 2021: Inauguration as Vice President of the United States
Kamala Harris and Joe Biden were inaugurated as the Vice President and President of the United States, respectively, on January 20, 2021.
February 5, 2021: First Tie-Breaking Votes as President of the Senate
On February 5, 2021, Kamala Harris cast her first two tie-breaking votes as President of the Senate, a role that would see her frequently exercising this power due to the 50-50 split between Republicans and Democrats in the 117th Congress.
March 24, 2021: Tasked with Addressing Root Causes of Migration
On March 24, 2021, President Biden entrusted Vice President Kamala Harris with the responsibility of addressing the root causes of migration from Central America to the United States. Her mandate includes reducing the influx of unaccompanied minors and adult asylum seekers and spearheading negotiations with Mexico, Honduras, Guatemala, and El Salvador to find solutions.
April 2021: Involvement in Afghanistan Troop Withdrawal Decision
In April 2021, Vice President Kamala Harris revealed that she was present for the critical decision-making process regarding the withdrawal of US troops from Afghanistan. Highlighting President Biden's courage and conviction in making difficult decisions, she emphasized his commitment to doing what he believes is right. This event underscores her close involvement in key national security matters.
May 2021: First Female Commencement Speaker at the United States Naval Academy
Breaking barriers once again, Vice President Kamala Harris became the first woman to deliver the commencement address at the prestigious United States Naval Academy in May 2021. This historic occasion marked a significant step forward for women in leadership roles.
June 2021: First International Trip as Vice President to Address Migration
In June 2021, Vice President Kamala Harris embarked on her inaugural international trip, visiting Guatemala and Mexico to address the root causes of migration from Central America to the United States. Her trip focused on understanding the factors driving migration and seeking collaborative solutions with regional leaders.
July 20, 2021: Breaking Tie-Breaking Vote Records
On July 20, 2021, Kamala Harris cast her seventh tie-breaking vote, surpassing Mike Pence's record for such votes within the first year of a vice presidency. By year's end, she had cast 13 tie-breaking votes, the most in a single year in US history, surpassing John Adams' 12 votes in 1790.
November 2021: Diplomatic Efforts to Strengthen Ties with France
In November 2021, Vice President Kamala Harris engaged in diplomatic efforts to mend and reinforce ties with France following the cancellation of a submarine program. Her meeting with French President Emmanuel Macron aimed to reaffirm the importance of the US-France relationship and address any concerns arising from the canceled program.
November 19, 2021: First Woman to Assume Powers of the Presidency
On November 19, 2021, Vice President Kamala Harris etched her name in history by becoming the first woman to assume the powers and duties of the US presidency. This historic moment occurred from 10:10 to 11:35 am EST while President Biden underwent a colonoscopy. She assumed this role under Section 3 of the Twenty-fifth Amendment, becoming the third person overall to do so.
December 2021: Staff Turnover and Management Style Scrutiny
In December 2021, Vice President Kamala Harris faced scrutiny over high staff turnover rates within her office. The departures of key personnel, including her chief of staff, deputy chief of staff, press secretary, and others, raised concerns about her management style. Anonymous sources alleged mistreatment of staff, while her senior advisor defended their approach, emphasizing opportunities given to Black women.
2021: Second Time 100 Recognition
In 2021, Kamala Harris was once again recognized for her global influence by being included in Time magazine's Time 100 list of the world's 100 most influential people. This second appearance on the list solidified her position as a leading figure on the world stage.
2021: Forbes 50 Over 50 Recognition
In 2021, Kamala Harris was honored as part of the inaugural Forbes 50 Over 50 list. This distinguished group comprises entrepreneurs, leaders, scientists, and creators over the age of 50 who have made significant contributions to their respective fields.
May 2023: First Woman to Deliver Commencement Address at West Point
In May 2023, Vice President Kamala Harris continued to shatter glass ceilings by becoming the first woman to deliver the commencement address at the United States Military Academy at West Point. This landmark event underscored her commitment to inspiring future generations of military leaders and breaking down gender barriers in traditionally male-dominated fields.
December 5, 2023: Surpassing Calhoun's Tie-Breaking Vote Record
On December 5, 2023, Vice President Kamala Harris secured her place in history by casting her 32nd tie-breaking vote, exceeding the record previously held by John C. Calhoun, who had cast 31 votes during his nearly eight years as vice president. Harris achieved this milestone in less than half the time.