A new photographic biography chronicles Vice President Kamala Harris’s historic 107-day presidential campaign. Authors Deborah Willis and Kevin Merida released their compelling work “KAMALA: Her Historic, Joyful and Auspicious Sprint to the White House” on December 17.
Historic Campaign Journey Unveiled Through Powerful Photography
The book showcases over 150 photographs documenting Harris’s unprecedented presidential bid. Her campaign began after President Biden announced he would not seek re-election.
“107 days to mount a campaign when we’re used to presidential campaigns being two years in the making,” explains Merida. “The Democratic Party coalesced around this one candidate after the President decided not to run.”
Capturing Joy and Personal Moments on the Campaign Trail
Willis and Merida focused on portraying the emotional resonance behind Harris’s political journey. The photographs reveal intimate moments of Harris connecting with supporters and sharing heartfelt exchanges.
“We were looking for ways to find the joy of the campaign, that emotional experience that often is ignored,” Willis shares. The images capture doorstep conversations, selfies, and meaningful interactions with community members.
Breaking Barriers and Making History
The biography details Harris’s achievements as the first Black American woman to become vice president. Her subsequent presidential nomination marked another groundbreaking milestone.
“She literally broke barriers and crashed through ceilings not made of glass but made of bricks at every level,” Merida emphasizes. Willis adds that she wanted to showcase Harris’s multiple identities as a sister, daughter, and mother.
Legacy of Inspiration and Perseverance
The authors compare this work to their previous collaboration on Barack Obama’s 2008 campaign. Both books aim to capture the humanity behind historic political moments.
“No one just arrives. Success is built on influence, perseverance and the belief that tomorrow can be better than today,” reflects Merida. The book serves as a lasting testament to Harris’s transformative journey.
