In a notable event marking the close of her tenure, Vice President Kamala Harris encountered several awkward moments during the Senate swearing-in ceremony on January 3. This event highlighted one of her final official duties before the upcoming change in administration.
According to Mail Online, Vice President Kamala Harris faced several ceremonial hurdles during the opening of the 119th Congress.
The ceremony commenced with Harris tasked with swearing in new and returning senators. During her recital of the Pledge of Allegiance, she stumbled, beginning with "I pledge allegiance to the United -" instead of the correct phrasing. This mishap briefly disrupted the proceedings, although Harris quickly corrected herself and completed the pledge properly.
The event was notable for the presence of Vice President-elect J.D. Vance and Ohio's newly elected Senator Bernie Moreno. While the interaction between Harris and Vance was minimal, both maintained a professional demeanor, engaging other attendees with smiles and handshakes.
Former Senator Barbara Mikulski made a significant gesture by pointedly articulating Harris's name correctly during the proceedings. This act was seen as a direct response to previous mispronunciations by Harris's critics, emphasizing respect and correctness in such formal settings.
Following the initial pledge, Harris was involved in the ceremonial swearing-in of several senators. These included GOP Senators Josh Hawley and Ted Cruz, as well as newly elected senators like David McCormick and Andy Kim, and Senator Tim Sheehy. Each session proceeded without incident, underscoring the smooth operation of these interactions.
However, the ceremony was not without its uncomfortable moments. An awkward encounter emerged when Bruce, the husband of GOP Senator Deb Fischer, opted not to shake Harris's hand. Harris tried to lighten the mood by jokingly remarking, "I won't bite," but the discomfort was apparent.
This particular moment with Bruce stretched the tensions visible during the ceremony, reflecting the divisive atmosphere that can sometimes permeate such political gatherings.
Barbara Mikulski's act of emphasizing the correct pronunciation of Kamala Harris's name was more than just a point of etiquette; it was a statement about dignity and respect in the upper echelons of U.S. politics. Mikulski herself bolstered this point by saying, "I just wanted to say your name properly in the Senate," drawing attention to the importance of respect for individuals regardless of political affiliation.
The significance of these interactions goes beyond simple name pronunciation. They underscore the ongoing tensions and the need for respectful engagement in political forums, particularly at a time of transition and change in governance.
As the event progressed, Harris continued to fulfill her role with composure, notwithstanding the earlier stumble and the snub from Bruce. These interactions, both smooth and strained, painted a complex picture of the ceremonies that accompany legislative transitions.
The presence of Vice President-elect J.D. Vance was a clear reminder of the impending transition. With only a few weeks left until he takes office, the ceremony was as much a welcome for newcomers as it was a farewell to the current Vice President.
Despite the various challenges, the event marked a significant moment in the continuation of U.S. democratic traditions, with the transfer of responsibilities carried out amidst the formalities of the Senate's opening session.
This ceremony not only encapsulated the politeness and complexities of such governmental functions but also symbolized the ongoing evolution of leadership within the United States. As Harris concludes her duties and prepares to hand over to her successor, the event stands as a testament to the resilience and the ceremonial continuity inherent in U.S. governance.
