Former Lover of Kamala Harris Reveals Concerns About Potential Presidency
Willie Brown, the former mayor of San Francisco and ex-boyfriend of Vice President Kamala Harris, recently stirred political waters with his candid thoughts on the current presidential landscape.
Brown stated that President Joe Biden should resign in order to allow Harris to ascend to the Oval Office, but he also expressed some caveats about her potential administration, as the Daily Mail reports.
The former mayor, 90, shared his opinions and recollections in an interview with Jonathan Martin, a columnist for Politico.
Brown, who dated Harris while he was running for mayor of San Francisco in the 1990s, reminisced about their relationship and her rise in politics. At the time, Brown was 60, and Harris was a 29-year-old prosecutor.
Brown Reflects on Relationship and Career
During the interview, Brown humorously suggested that if Harris were to become president, she might deport him. “She’ll deport my a**,” he quipped. Despite the jest, Brown's reflections brought to light serious concerns he has regarding Harris' likability and political future.
He expressed that Harris suffers from what he termed "the Hillary syndrome," explaining that some people might simply not take a liking to her. This comment comes from Brown's observation of Harris's political trajectory and the unique challenges she might face.
Political Mentorship and Influence
Harris, who considers Brown her political mentor, benefitted notably from Brown’s influence during her early career. Brown's support extended to significant political appointments and campaign donations, solidifying his role in her ascent. However, the relationship was not without strain.
During her campaign to become San Francisco district attorney, Harris worked to publicly distance herself from Brown, asserting her independence.
"Willie Brown is not going to be around. He’s gone -- hello people, move on," Harris stated in 2003. She emphasized her determination to forge her own path, saying, "His career is over; I will be alive and kicking for the next 40 years. I do not owe him a thing."
Trump's Influence and Political Strategy
Brown also provided his perspective on former president Donald Trump's rise in politics, attributing Trump's success largely to his celebrity status. "He’s an entertainer, that’s all it is," Brown commented, underscoring the impact of fame on political success. This remark came as Brown recalled an episode from the 1990s when he and Harris flew on Donald Trump's private plane to New York.
Although Harris did not attend the meeting, this anecdote highlights the intersection of celebrity and politics that continues to play a significant role today.
Concerns Over Harris's Political Prospects
Brown revealed deeper concerns when discussing Harris's potential presidency. He pointed out that her political career has its challenges, particularly in garnering widespread appeal. Brown noted that Harris was not the first choice for president by other political heavyweights, including Nancy Pelosi.
In the recent interview with the San Francisco Standard, Brown reiterated his stance and concerns about Harris's viability as a presidential nominee. According to Brown, ensuring the support of influential figures, like Gov. Gavin Newsom, was crucial for Harris.
Campaign Distancing and the Path Forward
Despite their storied past, Brown sees Harris as a strong political force capable of overcoming underestimations. "You can very easily underestimate Kamala Harris, but if you do you will be looking up from the dungeon for the queen will be on the throne," he stated. This metaphor captures Brown's perception of Harris's potential to rise above challenges and achieve significant political milestones.
The complexities of Harris's political journey become evident through the lens of Brown's reflections. His insights reveal not only the personal and professional intersections of their paths but also broader implications for the future of American politics.
Conclusion
Willie Brown's interview offers a multifaceted view of Vice President Kamala Harris's political journey, shaped significantly by their past relationship, mentorship, and the broader political landscape.
Brown's recommendation for President Joe Biden to resign in favor of Harris becoming president is rooted in deep personal and political insights.
His reflections point to both the opportunities and hurdles Harris faces, underscoring the intricate dynamics of modern American politics.