Vice President Kamala Harris experienced substantial staff departures and administrative challenges upon assuming office, leading to President Joe Biden to take extraordinary measures to support her. However, recent developments suggest a steadying of Harris’ team as she acclimatizes to her position.
Known for her demanding leadership style, Harris started her Vice Presidential term in January 2021 amid growing tensions within her newly constituted White House team. Her style, often likened to a prosecutor’s approach, was a contributing factor.
Reports indicate that Harris’ method entailed probing questions about every aspect of her schedule and briefings, coupled with a cautious decision-making process. This approach led to feelings of frustration and exhaustion among some team members.
The situation reached a climax in June 2021 when Politico conducted interviews with 22 present and past aides, painting a picture of discord and negativity within Harris’ office. The subsequent staff departures echoed patterns seen during her tenure as a California senator.
Known for his strong loyalty, President Biden reportedly intervened directly. He issued a stern warning to Harris’ staff, threatening termination for anyone leaking harmful stories about the Vice President. This unusual move underscored the administration’s concern about public perception of Harris’ office.
Recently, over 300 former staffers of Vice President Kamala Harris signed a letter endorsing her. The letter extolled Harris’ record of challenging wrongdoers and championing marginalized communities. They also lauded her for tackling challenging issues while working alongside them. The ex-staffers stressed that Harris has been efficient in every role she has undertaken in her career.
The turnover rate in Harris’ office was notable. Almost 92% of the initial staff members employed after she assumed office in January 2021 have departed during her almost four-year tenure as vice president. Only four of the initial 47 hires remained employed continuously, according to an analysis by Open the Books.
Adam Andrzejewski, CEO of Open the Books, noted that Vice President Harris had replaced nearly all of her senior-level staff members. This high turnover rate resulted in minimal continuity or loyalty among her senior team. Andrzejewski highlighted that only four lower-ranking staff members remained consistently employed throughout these changes.
However, it should be noted that high turnover rates are not unusual in high-ranking government positions. President Biden’s senior-level executive branch staff, or “A-Team,” has experienced a turnover of approximately 71%.
As Harris acclimatized to her role, her office witnessed modifications that seem to have stabilized the situation. Key appointments, such as Lorraine Voles, formerly a communications aide and later chief of staff, contributed to smoother operations. The turnover rate has now slowed to match that of the rest of the White House.
Harris’ allies and current staff defend her leadership style, arguing it is not significantly different from other politicians. They suggest that much of the criticism is grounded in sexism and racism rather than legitimate concerns about her leadership.
Supporters underscore Harris’ personal touch, pointing out that she encourages staff to bring their children to the office and organizes team dinners. They argue that this approach illustrates a balance between her demanding work ethic and her efforts to foster a positive team environment.
As the 2024 presidential election looms, Harris’ leadership style and her ability to manage a large operation will likely undergo further scrutiny. However, her supporters are confident that she has matured into the vice presidential role and has assembled a competent team around her.
