On Inauguration Day this past January, my family found ourselves scattered across different locations. I was working remotely from home, my partner, a hospital chaplain, was attending to patients, and our kids were in school. Though we couldn’t physically be together, we proudly donned our Biden-Harris gear, with our daughters sporting their Kamala shirts. We were ready for this pivotal moment — a new administration led by a Black, South Asian woman as Vice President, embodying the possibility for progress.
Vice President Harris was a prominent and outspoken ally to Joe Biden during the campaign, making history with her victory speech on November 7, 2020. But what has she been up to since the inauguration? What does her role entail? Beyond being “next in line” for the presidency, what exactly does a vice president do?
The reality is that each president and vice president defines their partnership, shaping the VP’s responsibilities. During his tenure as vice president, Biden took on significant projects, including overseeing foreign policy and implementing the economic recovery plan. The initial days of the Biden-Harris administration have provided a platform for defining Vice President Harris’s contributions.
Key Contributions of Vice President Harris
For instance:
- Senate Tie-Breaker
While being next in line for the presidency is one role, the Constitution grants the vice president the power to cast tie-breaking votes in the Senate. This role can vary in frequency; for example, VP Mike Pence broke ties 13 times, while Biden didn’t need to do so during his vice presidency. With a split Senate of 50 Democrats and 50 Republicans, Harris is likely to have many opportunities. Just last month, she was called to the Senate to cast the decisive vote for President Biden’s $1.9 trillion COVID-19 relief plan, a move that will alleviate the financial burdens faced by many Americans. - Vaccine Advocate
Since the passage of the relief bill, Harris has been traveling the nation, accompanied by her husband, to emphasize the importance of the COVID-19 relief plan. She has been actively encouraging vaccinations, particularly in communities of color, where hesitancy is often higher. As a woman of color, she directly addresses concerns, assuring people that the vaccine is safe and vital for their health. - Champion for Civil Rights
In addition to health issues, Harris speaks on various matters using her platform and heritage. The ongoing battle for voting rights, reminiscent of the struggles during Jim Crow, is one such issue that resonates deeply with her. She has made her stance clear: “Americans today want to vote for the same reason the Selma teachers marched… every citizen deserves to be heard.” - Advocate Against Asian Hate
With the rise in hate crimes against Asian Americans, it’s crucial to have visible leaders like Harris speaking out. As the first Asian vice president, she has been vocal about combating racism and discrimination, standing alongside President Biden as he signs executive orders to address these issues. - Overseeing Migration
Upon taking office, Biden and Harris quickly moved to reverse the previous administration’s harsh policies at the border. Harris has been designated to lead the administration’s response to migration challenges, tackling the complexities of processing thousands of migrants and unaccompanied minors seeking refuge. - “Last Voice in the Room”
Biden has committed to making Harris the “last voice in the room” for key decisions, ensuring her perspective is considered across various issues. This means her influence will extend beyond specific duties, making her a vital advisor in the administration.
I’m eager to see more from our vice president, especially concerning the safe reunification of migrant children with their families and efforts toward justice reform. This administration is dedicated to restoring America and navigating the path back to normalcy, with a thoughtful approach that prioritizes the well-being of its citizens. They are first and foremost individuals who want a balanced life and are committed to leading with compassion and integrity.
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Summary
This article highlights the impactful role of Vice President Kamala Harris in the Biden administration, showcasing her contributions as a tie-breaker in the Senate, vaccine advocate, champion for civil rights, and leader on migration issues. Harris’s unique perspective and commitment to various causes underscore her significance as a historical figure and an essential advisor in the administration.