Vice President Kamala Harris made headlines this week for her profane language during a public address at the annual Asian Pacific American Institute for Congressional Studies Legislative Leadership Summit.
Harris, who has a well-documented history of public gaffes, used the phrase “kick that f**king door down” while discussing the importance of breaking barriers for young Asian Americans, Native Hawaiians, and Pacific Islanders.
The event, which took place on May 13, 2024, saw Harris participating in a conversation moderated by actor and comedian Jimmy O. Yang. When asked about her role as the first vice president of Asian descent, Harris responded with a lengthy answer that included the now-infamous expletive.
The audience responded with applause and laughter, and Harris herself laughed awkwardly after realizing her use of the profanity.
KAMALA: "You need to kick that f**king door down! Ha ha ha! Excuse my language! Ha ha ha!" pic.twitter.com/SoU4alubyd
— RNC Research (@RNCResearch) May 13, 2024
This is not the first time Harris has made headlines for her public gaffes. In the past, she has been criticized for her handling of various issues, including her role in the Biden administration’s immigration policies and her response to the ongoing crisis at the U.S.-Mexico border. Additionally, Harris has been known to make awkward statements and engage in uncomfortable laughter during interviews and public appearances.
The recent profanity-laden speech has once again brought Harris’s public speaking skills and ability to connect with audiences into question. Critics argue that her use of such language is unbecoming of a vice president and undermines her credibility as a leader.
In response to the backlash, the White House has defended Harris, with press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre stating, “She’s passionate about what she fights for. And I think it’s important to have someone who’s passionate about what they’re speaking about.”
