In a surprising shift from political discourse, former US Vice President and Democrat leader Kamala Harris has recently ventured into the realm of personal advice, offering her perspective on modern dating. While currently on a sabbatical from politics, Harris appeared on a popular podcast, sharing insights that have since ignited a fiery debate across social media platforms.
Harris's Unconventional Dating Philosophy
The 61-year-old politician, who married Douglas Emhoff in 2014, shared her thoughts during an appearance on the "Rich Little Broke Girls" podcast this Tuesday. Harris, known for her signature laugh, began with seemingly straightforward counsel for young, single women. She advised choosing a partner who allows mutual laughter and with whom one enjoys simple, everyday activities like grocery shopping or taking a walk.
However, her advice took a more unconventional turn. Harris emphasized that people experience "different phases" in life, and it's acceptable to seek different types of relationships accordingly. "Maybe you're going to choose that you want to have that kind of Friday night relationship — or you want that Sunday morning relationship," she stated, adding that sometimes these can combine, and sometimes they are like "oil and water."
She encouraged women to enjoy the process, stating, "Enjoy dating, by the way, because dating is fun. It's supposed to be." Harris, who met her husband in their 40s, also reflected that they might not have been compatible if they had met two decades earlier, highlighting how personal growth influences relationships.
Netizens React: Wisdom or Waffle?
The internet's response to Harris's foray into dating coaching has been sharply divided. Many users on platform X (formerly Twitter) expressed disappointment, expecting more profound guidance from a former Vice President and presidential candidate.
One critical post read, "Nothing profound, but she acts like it's deep wisdom. Hard to believe this woman ran for president." Another user pointed out a potential pitfall, suggesting the advice could lead to "insecurity and constant self-questioning of one's worth, based on sexuality's power dynamics." Some comments referenced her past relationship with Willie Brown, questioning the intent behind her advice.
Yet, not all feedback was negative. Some defended her perspective, with one user explaining, "Honestly, the advice itself isn't that crazy. She's basically saying different people serve different roles in different seasons of life... Some people will hear this as empowering." Another supporter commented, "Dating advice from Kamala Harris is something I never knew I needed but love to have."
On Humility and Her Signature Laugh
Elsewhere in the interview, Harris addressed criticisms about her demeanor, specifically a reporter's question about her perceived lack of humility. She firmly rejected outdated expectations for women. "I don't aspire to be humble," she said, calling the demand for female humility a "very dated perspective."
She connected this to criticisms of her loud, distinctive laugh, which she proudly owns. In an April 2024 talk with Drew Barrymore, Harris defended it, saying, "I have my mother's laugh... I grew up around a bunch of women, in particular, who laughed from the belly."
The episode underscores a recurring tension for women in politics: the public's expectation for them to be simultaneously authoritative and relatable, profound yet personal. While some argue that not every statement from a politician needs to be politicized, others hold leaders to a higher standard of public commentary. Harris's dating advice, whether seen as liberating or lacking, has certainly succeeded in getting people talking.
