After her resounding defeat in the 2024 presidential election to Donald Trump, Vice President Kamala Harris has taken on a largely ceremonial role as her term winds down.
On Friday, Harris presided over the swearing-in of new senators and representatives as the 118th Congress convened—a “routine” task for the sitting vice president, who serves as president of the Senate until their term expires.
However, Harris appeared to fumble through a recitation of the Pledge of Allegiance, leaving many questioning her grasp of one of the nation’s most iconic patriotic statements. Held on the Senate floor, the event was supposed to be a ceremonial display of unity and tradition. Instead, it turned into an awkward spectacle as Harris struggled to lead the pledge.
“Join me in pledging allegiance to our flag,” Harris began, pausing slightly before continuing. “I pledge allegiance to the United States of America and to the Republic for which it stands…” she said, stumbling through the familiar lines.
Harris’s post-election activities, while fulfilling her constitutional duties, may lack the gravitas or enthusiasm typically associated with a successful tenure.
Sen. John Thune (R-S.D.) has become the Senate majority leader after the Republican Party successfully flipped the Senate in the 2024 elections.
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