Kamala Harris: Could She Become One of the Most Powerful Vice-Presidents in U.S. History?

The upcoming 2024 U.S. election is expected to be a pivotal moment in American politics, and the Vice Presidential candidacy of Kamala Harris stands out as a topic of intense interest. With her history of activism and her current position as California’s Attorney General, Kamala’s path to the Vice Presidency is not without controversy and speculation.

Historical Context: The Evolution of the Vice Presidency

The role of the Vice President has been a subject of debate since the early days of the United States. Historically, the Vice Presidency was often seen as a ceremonial position, akin to the 'ribbon-cutting and baby kissing' role mentioned in the television show Veep. In fact, Ben Franklin famously referred to the Vice President as his 'superfluous excellency,' highlighting how the office was perceived to be less impactful than other positions in Washington.

The role’s transformation came to a head during the presidency of Lyndon B. Johnson. LBJ, as Vice President under John F. Kennedy, played a significant role in advancing the civil rights agenda and altering the balance of power within the executive branch. Despite belonging to a party seen as less powerful in legislative terms, LBJ managed to implement a number of key policies. This marked the beginning of what some might call the modernization of the Vice Presidency.

Kamala Harris and the Current Landscape

However, the position of Vice President in the 21st century is dramatically different. Under Dick Cheney, Vice Presidential power saw a significant expansion. Cheney often worked behind the scenes, making critical decisions on key issues, demonstrating that the Vice President could indeed wield considerable influence. This was evident in scenes from the movie Vice which portray Cheney suggesting he handle critical issues while George W. Bush, despite his limitations, agreed without question. This situation likely involved some strategic wiles and the sound advice of Presidential advisors.

Fast forward to 2024, and Kamala Harris is not seen merely as a figurehead. While she began her campaign with an image planted by her competitors as a mere placeholder, her performance in various debates and her policy proposals have significantly raised her profile. Joe Biden, at 78, knows that part of his role must also be to prepare Kamala Harris for a potential role as President. His decision not to allow her to take over power she didn't want to relinquish aligns with the values of a cautious and experienced leader.

Implications for Future Leadership

Given the evolving role of the Vice Presidency, Kamala Harris' experience and background present a unique opportunity. Her legal and policy experience, as well as her track record in California, could significantly influence her ability to step into a more powerful role. This shift in how the Vice Presidency is perceived and utilized could have far-reaching effects on U.S. politics.

With Kamala Harris stepping up as a potential leader, the race is wide open. Her supporters argue that she is not only poised for a more influential role but could play a crucial part in shaping the country's future. However, she must navigate the political landscape carefully, ensuring she remains a key ally and advisor to Joe Biden while also positioning herself as a potential deputy president.

Conclusion

As the 2024 election approaches, Kamala Harris' journey to the Vice Presidency is far from over. She has the potential to become one of the most powerful VPs in recent history, but she must maintain a delicate balance. With Joe Biden’s vast experience and Kamala's rising influence, the next few elections will determine the future of U.S. leadership.

Keywords: Kamala Harris, Vice President, Political Power, Biden Administration, 2024 Election