In a recent interview with Drew Barrymore, Vice President Kamala Harris addressed the criticism she receives for her loud, frequent laughter. Harris attributed her laughter to her mother and the influence of the women in her life who laughed from the belly. She emphasized the importance of not conforming to others’ perceptions of how one should act. Harris discussed the issue of sexism playing a role in the criticism she faces for her laughter, suggesting that it is unfair to judge her based on outdated stereotypes of how a woman should behave.
Despite Harris’s attempt to explain her laughter as a personal trait influenced by her upbringing, critics continue to use it as a point of attack. A recent focus group funded by the Democratic National Committee found that Harris’s laughter, particularly during serious moments, irritates voters. The Republican Party has capitalized on this criticism by sharing videos of Harris’s laughter on social media to portray her as unserious and out of touch. Supporters of Harris argue that this focus on her laughter is rooted in sexism and is an unfair way to critique her performance as vice president.
Harris’s laughter has been a point of contention in the past, with critics accusing her of inappropriate behavior during serious moments. In one instance, as she was questioned about the Biden administration’s handling of the Afghanistan pullout, Harris burst into laughter before responding to the reporters’ inquiries. This incident was met with backlash on social media, with some suggesting that she was not taking the situation seriously. The negative attention surrounding Harris’s laughter has contributed to her declining approval ratings as vice president.
Despite the criticism she faces for her laughter, Harris remains unapologetic, even embracing it as a part of her personality. In her interview with Barrymore, she expressed pride in her unique laugh and encouraged others to reject societal expectations of how they should behave. The exchange between Harris and Barrymore was a positive moment in which they both celebrated the importance of being true to oneself and rejecting the pressures to conform. Harris’s message resonated with many viewers who appreciated her authenticity and confidence in the face of criticism.
As the first female vice president of the United States, Harris faces heightened scrutiny and criticism compared to her male counterparts. Her laughter, in particular, has become a point of focus for her detractors, who use it as a way to undermine her credibility and effectiveness as a leader. Harris’s supporters argue that this criticism is unfair and rooted in gender stereotypes that penalize women for displaying traits that are perceived as too emotional or unprofessional. Despite the challenges she faces, Harris remains resilient and committed to her work, continuing to advocate for issues important to her and the American people.
