A recent interview with former San Francisco mayor Willie Brown has reignited debate over Vice President Kamala Harris’s political future. At 91, Brown spoke candidly about Harris’s prospects after leaving the White House, suggesting California’s governorship may not be the ideal next step. His remarks carry weight not only because of his political career but also due to his personal mentorship of Harris early in her career.
During a podcast with Jon Slavet on The Issue Is, Brown said:
“She may not want to run for governor of the state of California. That may not be where she should be going. I think it’s going to be difficult for her to win that job.”
Brown highlighted Harris’s strengths in legal and judicial roles rather than executive leadership. He praised her intellect and courtroom skills but raised doubts about her ability to manage California’s complex state government. Slavet noted that Brown described Harris as excelling in legal strategy but facing challenges under the scrutiny and responsibilities of running the world’s fifth-largest economy.
These comments also echo advice Brown offered in 2020. He had suggested Harris decline the vice-presidential slot and pursue U.S. attorney general instead, believing it would better showcase her prosecutorial skills while building national credibility. Harris ultimately accepted Biden’s offer, becoming the first woman, first Black woman, and first South Asian American vice president—a historic milestone that also exposed her to intense scrutiny.
Harris has had a rapid political rise—from San Francisco prosecutor to city district attorney, California attorney general, U.S. senator, and now vice president. But her ascent has come with challenges. Critics cite inconsistencies in messaging and executive leadership, while supporters highlight extraordinary barriers, including heightened scrutiny, racial, and gender bias.
