Kamala Harris’s record as a prosecutor has been under scrutiny since she became a candidate for president. Critics have pointed to her support for harsh sentencing laws, her opposition to reforms that would have reduced the prison population, and her office’s use of cash bail, which disproportionately impacts low-income defendants.
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One of the most disturbing aspects of Harris’s record is her support for keeping nonviolent prisoners locked up. In 2010, she co-authored a bill that would have increased the penalties for nonviolent drug offenses. The bill was ultimately vetoed by Governor Jerry Brown, but it is indicative of Harris’s approach to criminal justice.
Harris has also opposed reforms that would have reduced the prison population. In 2014, she opposed a bill that would have allowed nonviolent offenders to earn early release by completing rehabilitation programs. She also opposed a bill that would have reduced the sentences of nonviolent drug offenders.
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Harris’s office’s use of cash bail has also been criticized. Cash bail is a system that requires defendants to pay a sum of money in order to be released from jail while they await trial. This system disproportionately impacts low-income defendants, who are more likely to be unable to afford bail. As a result, they are more likely to remain in jail for extended periods of time, even if they are ultimately found not guilty.
Harris’s record on criminal justice is out of step with the values of most Americans. A recent poll found that 61% of Americans believe that the criminal justice system is unfair to people of color. Harris’s support for harsh sentencing laws, her opposition to reforms that would reduce the prison population, and her office’s use of cash bail all contribute to this unfairness.