Former vice president and 2024 Democratic presidential candidate Kamala Harris addressed criticism regarding her laughter, asserting that no one is going to diminish her joy.
In a discussion on the Baby, This Is Keke Palmer podcast hosted by Keke Palmer, Harris was asked about how she reconciles her public persona as Vice President with her personal identity. She admitted it can be challenging, sharing that she grew up in a family of strong women known for their hearty laughter.
“It can be tough. Really tough, Keke. I’m aware of the memes about my laugh,” Harris remarked. “But, you see, I was brought up in a household of powerful women who laughed with genuine joy. And by ‘powerful,’ I mean influential in their communities, not just defined by titles or wealth.”
She elaborated that her relatives would often gather around the kitchen table, enjoying coffee and sharing loud, joyful laughter.
“Those who seek to steal your joy are trying to make you weak, and that’s where I draw the line,” Harris asserted. “I understand your intentions; you won’t take my joy. You are not powerful enough to do that.”
During her time as vice president, Harris has frequently laughed heartily during speeches or in response to reporters’ questions.
In August 2021, it was reported that Harris laughed during a speech at a community health center when she reminded attendees that “people live in every state.”
She emphasized the need for more states to expand Medicaid, aligning with President Joe Biden’s goal to include dental, vision, and hearing coverage as part of his proposed $3.5 trillion plan, which was presented as an “infrastructure” initiative.
“We need to work together to push Congress to advance other facets of our Build Back agenda. Expanding Medicaid in every state is crucial… people live in every state,” she stated, then laughed spontaneously.
It was also noted that during interactions with reporters regarding Afghanistan, she unexpectedly burst into laughter, telling them to “hold on.”
