COLUMN: The Harris Effect

By Dr. James S. Bridgeforth, Ph.D. As the Democratic Party stands at a pivotal juncture, the question of leadership looms large. With President Joe Biden’s announcement on Sunday that he will step down from the presidency, the path forward for Democrats hinges not just on continuity but on the promise of a transformative leader who can unite and inspire the nation. In this crucial moment, Vice President Kamala Harris emerges not just as a candidate but as a beacon of hope—a leader whose vision and values can propel America towards a future of equity, justice and prosperity for all. Who is Kamala Harris? Beyond the titles and accolades lies a remarkable journey—a daughter of immigrants, a graduate of Howard University and UCLA Law and a fierce advocate for equal rights. Harris’s career has been defined by a relentless pursuit of justice, from her groundbreaking work on LGBTQ+ rights and women’s health to her advocacy for climate action, Medicaid improvements for seniors and gun safety reforms. Her legacy was further solidified by her decisive role in the confirmation of Justice Kentanji Brown Jackson, the first African American woman on the United States Supreme Court—a testament to Harris’s unwavering commitment to diversity...