10 Things You Didn’t Know About Kamala Harris
In this historic 2024 race, Kamala Harris is running against Donald Trump to become the next president of the United States. Below are 10 facts about her that may surprise you.
1. Meaning Behind Her Name
Her name translates to “lotus flower” in Sanskrit, symbolizing beauty, prosperity, and fertility in Indian culture. Her name is also connected to Lakshmi, the goddess of wealth and good fortune.
2. She Has Already Made History
She made history as the first African American, first woman, and first Asian American to serve as California’s attorney general.
3. She Holds the Record for Tie-Breaking Votes
As vice president, she holds the record for most tie-breaking votes in U.S. Senate history, surpassing John C. Calhoun’s 31. She set the record last year, casting her 32nd deciding vote.
4. She Loves to Read
She’s an enthusiastic reader and was the first 2019 Democratic candidate to share her favorite books with Book Riot. Her top picks included *Native Son* by Richard Wright, *The Kite Runner* by Khaled Hosseini, *The Joy Luck Club* by Amy Tan, *Song of Solomon* by Toni Morrison, and *The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe* by C.S. Lewis.
5. She Has a Diverse Upbringing
She was raised in both the Black Baptist church and Hindu temple.
6. She Would be One of the Shortest Presidents
At five-foot-four, she’s among the shortest presidential candidates, second only to James Madison.
7. Her First Date With Doug Emhoff
Her best friend introduced her to her husband, Doug Emhoff. They married in 2014 when Harris was 49 years old. Harris has no biological children.
8. She Loves to Cook
She’s an avid cook who enjoys sharing exciting new recipes. In 2019, her cooking videos, including one with actor Mindy Kaling, gained millions of views.
9. Her College Life
She attended predominately black Howard University. She was politically active, protesting apartheid in South Africa.
10. She is a Member of The Links Incorporated
Since 2018, she’s been a member of The Links Incorporated, a prominent Black women’s service organization. Its past members include Rosa Parks and civil rights lawyer Constance Baker Motley.
