DID KAMALA HARRIS SERVE IN THE US MILITARY?
When you run for office, certain things come with the territory. You’re likely to find many politicians have experience in the legal field. The higher up you look, they’re more likely to have been involved in a smaller role of public service as well. However, one polarizing topic when it comes to the President of the United States is military service. Most people who have held the title of POTUS have served our nation. However, it’s not an absolute nor a requirement. When it comes to the role of Vice President, military service isn’t as highly scrutinized; however, it’s still a considerable topic seeing as the VP is the next in line for the highest office in our nation. Kamala Harris has been our nation’s Vice President during the Biden administration. Now, with a potential second term looming, her military service continues to come into question. Below, we’re taking a look into the military record of Harris. And, we're seeing how it relates to her role in governing our nation.
Kamala Harris Military Record Explained
Vice President Kamala Harris has served in public office in various capacities; however, she has not been a part of the American Armed Forces. Military experience is not a prerequisite for holding the title of Vice President or POTUS; however, when you are the head of the Oval Office, leading the military is a part of the job. Fortunately, America has plenty of advisors, generals, and other qualified minds organizing the operational effectiveness of the U.S. military. Should Harris be called into the role of President, a role in which she did hold such powers for 85 minutes in the past, she will be equipped with a wealth of experienced resources through the team that surrounds her.
The Future of POTUS
It’s unsure to say what the political battlefield looks like moving forward, particularly, in an election year of a United States that is highly polarized on multiple sides. Many Democrats are looking at the way President Joe Biden has been handling himself and are now calling for new leadership. For Republicans, the same is true, though the successor would likely be Donald Trump. Even after the 2024 election cycle, Kamala Harris is poised to be a potential Presidential candidate. This is regardless of who wins the position this year. Military service experience can provide a first-hand point of view when deciding policy and making tactical decisions. However, there are plenty of qualified persons assisting those who hold the position but have not been in the military themselves.
Kamala Harris as the First Female Commander-in-Chief
Whether you realize it or not, Biden going under anesthesia for a routine colonoscopy made Harris the first female Commander-in-Chief. Regardless of official position or procedure, it’s highly likely that Kamala Harris has already been involved in many decisions that involve military policy. Decisions about the military are never a one-person move as our nation’s policy is expansive and complex. With that being said, the Vice President’s role is to be one of the top advisors for the President, who has an obvious role in making military decisions. While Kamala Harris is not a Veteran, her decisions and experience with military operations are still notable factors in both policy and practice. Suggested reads: