Kamala Harris’s record on criminal justice is a study in contradictions. As District Attorney of San Francisco and Attorney General of California, Harris built her career as a tough-on-crime prosecutor, overseeing policies that led to the incarceration of thousands, many for minor offenses. However, as she transitioned into a national political figure, Harris reinvented herself as a champion of criminal justice reform, aligning with the woke wing of the Democratic Party. This transformation raises serious questions about her principles and her commitment to justice.
During her tenure as District Attorney and Attorney General, Harris was known for her aggressive prosecution of drug offenses, particularly those involving marijuana. Despite her later support for marijuana legalization, Harris’s office prosecuted numerous individuals for marijuana-related crimes, contributing to the mass incarceration problem that disproportionately affects minority communities. Her record on this issue is deeply hypocritical, given her current stance on drug policy.
Harris also resisted efforts to reform California’s three-strikes law, a draconian measure that imposed life sentences for certain repeat offenders, even for non-violent crimes. Her refusal to support meaningful criminal justice reform during her time as Attorney General is in stark contrast to her current rhetoric on the need for change within the justice system.
Perhaps most troubling is Harris’s history of opposing the release of individuals wrongfully convicted of crimes. In several high-profile cases, Harris’s office fought to keep individuals in prison even after new evidence emerged that cast doubt on their guilt. This pattern of behavior raises serious ethical questions about Harris’s priorities and her commitment to justice.
As Harris now positions herself as a reformer, it is important to examine her record critically. Her shift from tough-on-crime prosecutor to woke progressive appears more driven by political opportunism than by a genuine commitment to justice. Voters should be aware of this history as they consider her candidacy in 2024.
