In this episode of 100 Days of Kamala, Priya David Clemens sits down with Matthew Rothschild, a key figure in Vice President Kamala Harris’s early political career and a personal friend who has known her since the mid-1990s. With more than 30 years of experience in San Francisco politics, Rothschild served as an advisor to Kamala during her campaigns for San Francisco District Attorney and California Attorney General. His unique perspective offers listeners a behind-the-scenes glimpse of Kamala’s rise to prominence, showcasing both her experience as a leader and the personal traits that set her apart.

Rothschild shares candid stories about Kamala’s deep-rooted family influence, particularly the pivotal role her late mother, Shyamala Gopalan, played in shaping her values and ambitions. "Her mother was one of the most extraordinary women I’ve ever met in my life," Rothschild recalls. He describes how Shyamala’s brilliance, resilience, and humor were cornerstones of Kamala’s upbringing and deeply informed her approach to life and leadership. Shyamala’s pride in her South Asian heritage and her groundbreaking work as a cancer researcher were instrumental in shaping Kamala’s drive and sense of justice.

The episode also delves into Kamala’s early political challenges, including her 2003 campaign for San Francisco District Attorney, where she faced tough odds and a well-established incumbent. Rothschild reflects on those early days, describing how Kamala’s intelligence, work ethic, and charisma drew people to her campaign, even when she was polling at only 6%. He also touches on the hurdles Kamala faced as a woman in politics, noting how "they tried to criticize her for her personal life, which I think is quite misogynist. They don’t ask men who they dated 10 or 15 years ago."

One of the episode’s highlights is Rothschild’s recounting of Kamala’s relationship with California Governor Gavin Newsom. Despite being allies in many ways, Rothschild acknowledges that "there’s always been a little rivalry. Of course there has been. They were both from a new generation moving up and had similar backing with financial and political supporters." He recalls the awkwardness when Newsom’s wife worked for Kamala’s opponent during her DA campaign and how Rothschild once playfully confronted Newsom about whether he’d vote for Kamala. Rothschild also praises Newsom’s decision to support Kamala’s presidential bid in 2024, stating, "He did the right thing for so many reasons. Running against her would’ve left a lot of battle scars."

Listeners are also treated to personal anecdotes that show a side of Kamala that’s rarely seen in public. Rothschild fondly recalls Kamala’s sense of humor and her ability to connect on a personal level. "Kamala’s not a prude," he emphasizes. "She’s fun, has a great laugh, and she knows how to dish." These moments reveal a leader who, despite her serious public image, enjoys lighthearted moments and values close relationships with her friends.

From her deep family roots to the political rivalries and friendships that shaped her career, this episode provides an intimate portrait of Kamala Harris as a person and a politician. Tune in for a rich discussion that sheds light on the human side of one of America’s most prominent leaders and explores the journey that has taken her from San Francisco politics to the national stage.

In this episode of "100 Days of Kamala," host Priya David Clemens interviews Halie Soifer, CEO of the Jewish Democratic Council of America and former National Security Advisor to then-Senator Kamala Harris from 2017 to 2018. Halie remains close to Harris to this day and recently spent Passover in a small group with the Vice President at her official residence. Halie reflects on Kamala’s early days in Washington, sharing how she “quickly established herself as a force to be reckoned with” in the Senate. Halie describes Harris’s approach during hearings, noting how her “pointed and deliberate questioning often left Trump administration officials visibly unsettled,” showcasing her ability to navigate complex issues with precision.

The conversation also touches on Kamala’s personal side, with Halie recounting an unexpected phone call during a challenging time. “She reached out just to see how I was doing—when no one was watching, which speaks volumes about who she is,” Halie shares, adding a layer of depth to the public’s understanding of Kamala as both a leader and a person.

Halie also discusses Kamala's role on the Senate Intelligence Committee, where she played a pivotal part in the investigation into Russia’s interference in the 2016 election. “Much of the work was done behind closed doors, but her contributions were significant,” Halie explains, emphasizing how this experience helped shape Kamala’s views on national security.

The episode further explores Kamala's stance on Israel amid the ongoing conflict in the Middle East, with Halie highlighting her “steadfast support for the U.S.-Israel relationship” and her nuanced approach to addressing complex international issues.

Halie also offers a glimpse into the partnership between Kamala and her husband, Doug Emhoff, sharing how they “support each other in every way,” and recalling a meaningful moment during a trip to Israel where Kamala “placed a kippah on Doug’s head with such care, preparing him for that special moment.”

This episode offers a rich tapestry of insights, quotes, and reflections from someone who worked closely with Kamala Harris during a formative period in her career, revealing both her professional rigor and her personal warmth.

Welcome to another episode of 100 Days of Kamala, the podcast that brings you closer to Vice President Kamala Harris through the voices of those who know her best. I’m your host, Priya David Clemens. Today, we’re joined by Amelia Ashley Ward, publisher of the Sun Reporter Newspaper and a longtime friend of Kamala Harris. Amelia has been by Kamala's side since 2002, when they first met at a women’s conference in San Francisco. They have since built a sisterhood that has thrived through the years, sharing laughter, secrets, and life journeys.

In this episode, Amelia reflects on Kamala's early days, her determination, and the unique qualities that have driven her to success. From attending Beyoncé concerts together to navigating the challenges of political campaigns, Amelia shares heartfelt anecdotes that reveal the personal side of Kamala Harris.

Join us as Amelia recounts Kamala’s early political career and the support she received from the Black community in San Francisco. Discover how Kamala’s drive, loyalty, and ambition were evident long before she became a household name. Through Amelia’s stories, we see Kamala not only as a powerful leader but also as a supportive friend and an inspiring figure for women everywhere.

Tune in for a conversation filled with laughter, insight, and a celebration of sisterhood. Learn how Kamala's journey from a district attorney to Vice President of the United States was shaped by her determination and the strong friendships that supported her along the way.

Listen now to gain an intimate perspective on Kamala Harris’s path to leadership and the enduring bond of friendship that continues to uplift her.