Vice President Kamala Harris, while fulfilling her role as Senate president, faced a series of awkward moments during her last duty of swearing in senators before the upcoming Trump administration takes office.
On Capitol Hill for the opening of the 119th Congress, Harris completed her duties amid an atmosphere marked by political tension and unexpected gaffes, yet largely maintained cordiality within the Senate chamber, as the Daily Mail reports.
Harris attended the ceremony to inaugurate newly elected and returning senators. Performing the Pledge of Allegiance, she awkwardly began with "I pledge allegiance to the United --" before correcting herself with the required line. This minor gaffe was quickly rectified as she proceeded with the formal procedures.
In performing her duties, Harris met Vice President-elect J.D. Vance. Both avoided direct engagement but shared smiles and handshakes with other attendees. Vance, set to replace Harris after President-elect Donald Trump emerged victorious in the last November election, remained composed throughout the event.
During the event, former Sen. Barbara Mikulski, a seasoned political figure, emphasized the correct pronunciation of Harris's name, showing respect and acknowledgment. This gesture occurred while welcoming newly elected Sen. Angela Alsobrooks to the upper chamber.
An unplanned moment added light humor when GOP Sen. Deb Fischer's husband declined a handshake from Harris. Instead, he offered a simple "thank you" while placing his hands in his pockets. Harris responded with humor, assuring him of no harm with a jocular "I won't bite."
Harris demonstrated composure and humor amid her high-profile responsibilities, wrapping up her final Senate duties smoothly despite minor incidents. These interactions highlighted a balance between the solemn responsibilities of the occasion and maintaining a sense of ease.
The backdrop of the day's events remained politically charged, given the recent election and its implications. With the Senate chamber a focal point for significant power transitions, all eyes were on Harris during this conclusive chapter of her vice-presidential tenure.
Despite the undercurrents of tension, the entire ceremony was conducted with a sense of decorum and civility. Harris kept her demeanor professional, acknowledging both allies and future political adversaries with equal respect. Her focus appeared to be on ensuring the smooth functioning of the procedural day.
The interactions between Harris, the senators, and their accompanying family members maintained a professional cordiality. No overt exchanges of political disputes colored the occasion, indicating a commitment to tradition and governmental continuity. As the president of the Senate, Harris carried out her roles until the very end, ensuring that governmental functions proceeded seamlessly. Her final acts encapsulated her commitment and the respect she garnered from colleagues on both sides of the political divide.
The ceremony, while marked by Harris's blunders, became a symbolic testament to her resilience and adaptability in her vice-presidential role's twilight. Her actions in the Senate on this day reflected her journey through the complex dynamics of modern American politics.
In these final moments within the Senate chambers, Harris's contributions to the political landscape came full circle. While her journey as vice president concluded, the ceremonial swearing-in presented an opportunity to reflect on her impactful, if challenging, tenure in office.
As Kamala Harris's term neared its end, the anticipation for the upcoming administrative changes was palpable within the Senate and the nation. Though faced with politically charged atmospheres, her ability to navigate the Senate's complexities was evident during these final acts.
