Vice President Kamala Harris experienced significant staff changes and management hurdles in the initial stages of her tenure. This led to President Joe Biden taking exceptional actions to safeguard his deputy. Recent indicators, however, hint towards a steadying of Harris’ team as she has found her footing in the position.
Upon assuming office in January 2021, Kamala Harris brought with her a reputation of being a taskmaster. Her management style, which some likened to that of a prosecutor, swiftly led to internal strains within her new team at the White House.
Reports suggest that Harris’ method involved asking incisive questions about every facet of her schedule and briefings, while also exercising prudence in her decision-making. The combination of these factors led to feelings of frustration and overwork among some staff members.
The tension reached a peak in June 2021 when Politico interviewed 22 current and former aides, painting a portrait of discord and negativity within Harris’ office. The ensuing staff departures mirrored similar trends from her time as a senator from California.
President Joe Biden, renowned for his unwavering loyalty to friends and political allies, reportedly intervened directly. He issued a stern warning to Harris’ staff, threatening to terminate any individual who leaked unfavorable stories about the Vice President. The extraordinary measure underscored the administration’s worry about the public’s perception of Harris’ office.
As of last month, over 300 former staff members of Vice President Kamala Harris signed a letter endorsing her. The letter extolled Harris’ track record of challenging wrongdoers and advocating for marginalized communities. It also lauded her for tackling complex issues during their working relationship. The ex-staffers underscored that Harris has been proficient in every role she has occupied throughout her career.
The rate of staff changes in Harris’ office was significant. Almost 92% of the original staff members who were hired following her inauguration in January 2021 have since left. According to an analysis by Open the Books, only four out of the original 47 hires from her first year have remained continuously employed.
Adam Andrzejewski, the CEO of Open the Books, noted that the Vice President has replaced nearly all her high-ranking staff members. This high rate of turnover at the top led to a lack of continuity or loyalty within her senior team.
It’s worth noting that high turnover rates are not unusual in high-ranking government positions. Approximately 71% of President Biden’s senior-level executive staff, known as the “A-Team,” has also experienced turnover.
As Harris got acclimated to her role, her office underwent changes that seem to have stabilized the situation. Key appointments, such as Lorraine Voles who served as a communications aide and later as Chief of Staff, contributed to smoother operations. The turnover rate has now slackened to be roughly equivalent to the rest of the White House.
Supporters and current staff of Harris defend her management style, asserting that it doesn’t deviate significantly from other politicians. They suggest that much of the criticism is steeped in sexism and racism rather than genuine concerns about her leadership.
Advocates of Harris also emphasize her more personal side, pointing out her encouragement for staff to bring their children to the office and her hosting of team dinners. They argue that this demonstrates a balance between her demanding work ethic and efforts to cultivate a positive team environment.
As the 2024 Presidential election looms, Harris’ leadership style and capability to manage a large operation are likely to come under fresh scrutiny. However, her supporters are confident that she has matured into the role of Vice President and has built a robust team around her.
