Kamala Harris, the first female and person of color to hold the position of vice president, has once again made history by matching the record for the most tiebreaking votes in the U.S. Senate. This 31st vote advanced the nomination of Kalpana Kotagal to the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission, a position previously only reached by John C. Calhoun during his vice presidency from 1825 to 1832.
Reflecting on her achievement, Harris stated, “It is a moment, and I believe there is still much more we have yet to accomplish.” She added, “My mother gave me valuable advice, which is to be the first at many things, but ensure I am not the last.”
Unlike Calhoun, who accumulated his tiebreaking votes over the course of eight years, Harris matched the record within just two and a half years. This is a testament to the unique circumstances surrounding her role, with a divided Senate and a highly partisan environment.
Joel K. Goldstein, a vice presidential historian, stated, “This says more about our time and political climate than anything else. Our politics are so polarized that even matters that would have easily passed in the past now require a tiebreaking vote from the vice president.”
The occasion itself was brief and lacking in ceremony. Harris spent only a few minutes in the chamber, cast her vote, and received congratulations from Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer. While presiding over the Senate and breaking ties is one of the few constitutional duties of the vice president, Schumer described it as an “immense burden” and commended Harris for fulfilling her duties with excellence amidst other demands of her job.
Harris had anticipated a reprieve from tiebreakers after the midterm elections, as Democrats obtained a majority of 51 votes. However, unexpected circumstances prolonged her role. The hospitalization of Sen. John Fetterman due to clinical depression, and Sen. Dianne Feinstein’s bout with shingles resulted in Harris having to cast tiebreaking votes.
Although Fetterman and Feinstein have since returned to the Senate, contested nominations may still require Harris’ presence. Tiebreakers have become an integral part of her role, despite her initial hope to find common ground in the Senate’s decision-making process.
While the task of casting tiebreaking votes can be challenging and limit her travel, it has also allowed Harris to cast deciding votes on significant issues, such as the American Rescue Plan and the Inflation Reduction Act. This has associated her with important accomplishments of the Biden administration.
In conclusion, Kamala Harris continues to make history as vice president, playing a pivotal role in the Senate through her tiebreaking votes.
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