In a June 2020 radio interview, Vice President Kamala Harris expressed support for the "defund the police" movement, advocating for reallocating police funds to community services such as education, housing, and healthcare. Harris emphasized that an increased police presence does not necessarily equate to improved public safety and criticized the militarization of police forces while public schools faced funding cuts.
Her comments, made on the "Ebro in the Morning" program, included praise for Los Angeles Mayor Eric Garcetti's decision to redirect $150 million from the police budget to social services.
Here’s Kamala Harris in 2020 advocating for Defund the Police by “upending the system” and “reimagining safety.” This is the radical language of the Squad and BLM that the media doesn’t want you to see. pic.twitter.com/w9aiepJQFq
— Charlie Kirk (@charliekirk11) July 26, 2024
Harris' remarks have resurfaced as she seeks to replace President Joe Biden as the Democratic nominee for the 2024 election. Critics argue that her previous support for the "defund" movement contrasts with her current position as a tough-on-crime prosecutor, a key part of her campaign strategy against potential Republican challengers. Mitch Landrieu, co-chair for the Biden-Harris campaign, recently clarified that Harris believes in being both "tough and smart on crime," supporting police funding while also investing in community services.
During the 2020 interview, Harris stated, "This whole movement is about rightly saying we need to take a look at these budgets and figure out whether it reflects the right priorities." She argued that cities were over-investing in policing while neglecting essential social services, a stance that drew significant attention and controversy.
Kamala is just another Radical "Defund the Police" Liberal!@realDonaldTrump Donald Trump Truth Social 05:50 PM EST 07/29/24 pic.twitter.com/2mEcqrpw2h
— Donald J. Trump Posts From His Truth Social (@TrumpDailyPosts) July 30, 2024
Harris' comments were part of a broader Democratic conversation in 2020 about police reform and resource allocation.
House Speaker Nancy Pelosi and other Democratic leaders also expressed support for reallocating police funds to address mental health, education, and community safety more directly, though they did not advocate for dismantling police departments.
As the political landscape evolves, Harris' previous statements on police funding continue to spark debate, particularly as she positions herself for the 2024 presidential race. Her campaign will need to navigate the complex dynamics of addressing past comments while appealing to a broad electorate concerned with both public safety and social justice.
Her statements during a heated time in America’s history could significantly impact her campaign as Harris seeks to appeal to mainstream voters.
