Former San Francisco City Attorney Louise Renne reflects on her time working with Kamala Harris, who once served as the head of the office’s division on children and families. This role required a remarkable blend of toughness and compassion, qualities Harris embodied during her tenure.
In the year 2000, Louise Renne, serving as San Francisco’s first female city attorney, sought a dedicated prosecutor to lead the family and children’s services division. The role encompassed critical issues such as child abuse, foster care, and adoption.
Renne observed, “It was a balancing act, but I thought Kamala had those traits.” The young attorney she hired, Kamala Harris, has since become a well-known Democratic presidential candidate, marking a historical campaign.
Renne recalls how, amidst the somber cases in family court, Harris brought a unique sense of joy on adoption days, surprising her with an array of teddy bears to celebrate these meaningful moments for the children and families involved.
Renne noted, “I thought that was a sort of out-of-the-box look at what would be a very meaningful day.” She explained the challenge Harris faced in handling difficult cases with a serious demeanor while maintaining compassion.
When asked about Harris’s motivation for working in family court, Renne emphasized Harris’s strong commitment to family values influenced by her own close-knit family background. This dedication continued to shape her career, including her controversial decision to prosecute parents of chronically truant children when she served as district attorney and later as attorney general.
While acknowledging criticism of this policy, Renne defended Harris by highlighting her unwavering belief in the importance of education and its impact on children’s futures.
Reflecting on Harris’s political journey, Renne expressed confidence in her success from the outset. She vividly recalls their lunch conversation where Harris shared her ambition to run for San Francisco district attorney, a leap that led her to become the first woman in that role and later, the first woman attorney general of California.
Renne also described the positive political landscape in San Francisco, characterized by influential women leaders like Dianne Feinstein and Nancy Pelosi, stating that these figures have paved the way for women in politics.
As Harris campaigns for higher office, Renne continues to support her and acknowledges the strength and determination that has defined Harris’s political career.
The series continues with insights from a former sorority sister of Harris, shedding light on their college days at Howard University.
