Harris Joins a Decades-Old Tradition for Vice Presidents
A Time-Honored Tradition
Vice President Kamala Harris, in one of her last public appearances in the role, signed her ceremonial desk drawer at the White House on Thursday, a tradition that dates back nearly a century. This tradition, which has been carried on continuously since the Ford administration, has been a staple of vice presidential protocol.
A Sense of Legacy
As a crush of current and prior staffers gathered in Harris’ formal office at the Eisenhower Executive Office Building, she thanked them for their “extraordinary commitment” to public service and prioritizing the hopes and dreams of the American people. Harris emphasized the importance of their work, stating, “We have each taken on a life and a calling that is about doing work in the service of others, and doing it in a way that is fueled yes with ambition, yes with a sense of almost stubbornness about not hearing no and knowing we can make a difference.”
A Tradition of Signature
Then, as Second Gentleman Doug Emhoff snapped pictures, Harris used a Sharpie to sign her desk drawer, a tradition that has been carried on by every vice president since the 1940s. Harris noted that she has met every one of her predecessors who signed the desk with the exception of Presidents Eisenhower and Truman.
A New Chapter
As onlookers chanted, “MVP! MVP!” Harris, who unsuccessfully challenged President-elect Donald Trump for the White House in 2024, was asked what she planned to do next. Speculation about whether she would run for governor of California has been swirling. Harris responded, “I’ll keep you posted,” with a smile.
Conclusion
Harris’ signing of her desk drawer marks the end of an era for her as vice president, but it also serves as a reminder of the rich history and tradition that has been carried on by every vice president since the 1940s. As she embarks on a new chapter in her career, Harris will undoubtedly continue to make her mark on American politics.
FAQs
* What is the tradition of signing a desk drawer for vice presidents?
The tradition of signing a desk drawer for vice presidents dates back to the 1940s and has been carried on continuously since the Ford administration.
* How many vice presidents have signed the desk drawer?
Every vice president since the 1940s has signed the desk drawer, with the exception of Presidents Eisenhower and Truman.
* What does the signing of the desk drawer signify?
The signing of the desk drawer signifies the end of an era for the vice president and marks the beginning of a new chapter in their career.
