#7 "Ahead of her time, Asians for Kamala, and Turning Attacks Into Opportunities," SF City Attorney David Chiu

100 Days of Kamala

**Episode Title: "David Chiu on Kamala Harris: The Joyful Warrior and Justice Advocate"**

In this episode of *100 Days of Kamala*, Priya David Clemens sits down with San Francisco City Attorney David Chiu, who has known Vice President Kamala Harris for over 25 years. Chiu reflects on their early days working together in the San Francisco District Attorney's office and offers a firsthand account of Kamala's rise from a "force of nature" in the courtroom to a leading figure on the national stage.

Chiu shares his first memory of Kamala, watching her command the courtroom as a new prosecutor: "She was brilliant. She was tough. She was a scrappy fighter, but she exuded compassion and warmth for victims." He highlights her unique combination of empathy and strength, qualities that continue to define her leadership today.

Chiu also delves into Kamala's pioneering approach to criminal justice reform, including her innovative Back on Track program, which sought to reduce recidivism and uplift marginalized communities. “She was always ahead of her time,” Chiu notes, explaining how Kamala prioritized real results and solutions over slogans, focusing on being "smart on crime."

Throughout the episode, Chiu shares personal stories of Kamala’s humanity and her unwavering commitment to justice, as well as how her immigrant upbringing shaped her determination to serve others. He recalls organizing the first *Asians for Kamala* group in 2003 and witnessing her ability to connect deeply with diverse communities.

Chiu also addresses the challenges Kamala has faced throughout her career, including misconceptions about her tenure as a prosecutor and the attacks she has weathered. Yet, he is confident in her ability to rise above: “She’s always turned attacks into opportunities, and she’s exactly the right person to prosecute the biggest case of her life against Donald Trump.”

From Kamala’s nuanced approach to justice to her joyful spirit and dedication to children, this episode provides a heartfelt look at the Vice President’s journey through the eyes of a longtime friend and colleague.