In early 2000, while serving as the Deputy City Attorney of San Francisco, Kamala Harris provided legal commentary regarding the implications of child testimony in court cases, specifically referencing Michael Jackson’s trial. Her remarks, captured by TMZ, reveal the nuanced perspectives that legal experts must consider when evaluating such sensitive testimonies.
Jackson was charged in 2003 with seven counts of child molestation and two counts of administering an intoxicating agent for the purpose of committing a felony. The King of Pop vehemently denied all allegations and pleaded not guilty. It’s crucial to note that Harris’ remarks were made in a general context as a legal expert and were not directed at Jackson’s guilt or innocence. It’s equally pivotal to note that Donald Trump had several times lauded the late singer.
Resurfaced Footage Sparks Controversy: Kamala Harris on Michael Jackson’s Trial
Recently uncovered footage from a 2004 ABC segment has brought renewed attention to Kamala Harris and her remarks regarding Michael Jackson’s trial. Back then, she was the Deputy City Attorney of San Francisco, and her remarks have resurfaced online, stirring the pot and bringing this tumultuous chapter of Jackson’s life back into the limelight.
In the clip, which has gained traction thanks to TMZ, Harris shared her insights regarding child testimony in court, stating:
In general, the child will be able to recall and recollect some detail, the incident, and that is persuasive to a jury, even if it is the only testimony that is available.
These words, delivered during a sensitive moment for the Jackson family, could shed light on why Janet Jackson has recently sought to challenge Harris’ credibility. It’s important to clarify that while Harris offered her expert opinion, she was not directly involved in Jackson’s trial.
For context, in 2003, the late singer faced severe allegations, including seven counts of child molestation and two counts related to administering an intoxicating agent to facilitate a crime (see The New York Times). He firmly denied all allegations, pleading not guilty. Ultimately, after a lengthy legal battle, he was acquitted of all charges in 2005 (via The Guardian).
In sharp contrast to Harris’ comments, Donald Trump has frequently praised Jackson, even standing up for the pop star’s character after his arrest (via TMZ). Notably, the racially charged narrative Janet Jackson has introduced about Harris mirrors Trump’s own rhetoric from the campaign trail. In an earlier controversial remark, Trump suggested that Harris had “happened to turn Black” for political gain. In reply, Harris fired back, asserting that “the American people deserve better”.
Kamala Harris’ background adds another layer to this unfolding story. Born in Oakland, California to immigrant parents—her mother is Shyamala Gopalan, hailing from India, and her father, Donald J. Harris, from Jamaica—Harris’ journey through politics and public service has been anything but ordinary.
What You Need to Know About Kamala Harris’ Early Career
Before embarking on her presidential campaign, Kamala Harris carved a remarkable path through law and politics, underscoring her dedication to public service and social justice.
She kicked off her legal career in 1990 as a deputy district attorney in Alameda County, California. There, she quickly earned a reputation for her no-nonsense approach to serious crimes, tackling issues like gang violence and s*xual abuse head-on. Her commitment to justice paved the way for her recruitment to the San Francisco District Attorney’s Office in 1998, where she took the helm of the Career Criminal Division, overseeing prosecutions for major offenses.
In 2003, Harris became San Francisco’s District Attorney. Additionally, she established an environmental justice unit within the DA’s office and officiated the first same-s*x marriage in San Francisco following the overturning of Proposition 8, showcasing her commitment to equality (via Britannica).
In 2020, when Joe Biden selected Harris as his running mate, she made headlines once again as the first woman, first Black person, and first South Asian American to serve as Vice President of the United States.
On July 21, 2024, President Joe Biden announced the suspension of his reelection campaign and threw his support behind Kamala Harris for president. Then, on August 22, 2024, during the fourth day of the Democratic National Convention, Harris formally accepted the Democratic nomination for president. After Biden stepped back from the 2024 presidential election, Harris kicked off her campaign with his endorsement.
