The friendship between Kamala Harris and Laurene Powell Jobs has not only become a powerful alliance but also placed the press-shy philanthropist into the political limelight. This connection between the two influential women is reshaping political dynamics, especially as Harris’s political career ascends.
After Kamala Harris was sworn in as a U.S. Senator in 2017, one of the key figures by her side was Laurene Powell Jobs. As one of the wealthiest women in Silicon Valley, with a fortune exceeding $11 billion, Powell Jobs has been a discreet yet essential player in Harris’s career. Her influence stretches beyond personal counsel, providing financial backing and public support as Harris rises through the political ranks.
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A Decades-Long Friendship
Laurene Powell Jobs, the widow of Apple co-founder Steve Jobs, is more than just a financial backer. For over 20 years, she has been one of Kamala Harris’s closest confidantes. Their friendship is built on shared experiences as women navigating high-profile roles, with Powell Jobs offering guidance and support behind the scenes. Over the years, she has quietly contributed millions to political efforts supporting Harris.
Powell Jobs’s influence was crucial in the lead-up to Harris’s presidential run. As the Democratic primary unfolded, Powell Jobs helped clear a path for Harris by playing a subtle yet pivotal role in convincing Joe Biden to step back, thus opening doors for Harris’s candidacy.
Silicon Valley Ties
Both Harris and Powell Jobs share deep roots in the Bay Area, their friendship dating back to Harris’s early political career. Powell Jobs supported Harris’s first campaign for San Francisco District Attorney in 2003, marking the beginning of a long-lasting bond. Over the years, the two women have moved in the same social circles, attending each other’s personal events and spending time together on personal trips.
Their friendship extends to shared experiences beyond politics, with Powell Jobs attending Harris’s wedding in 2014 and Harris attending the wedding of Powell Jobs’s son in Hawaii this year.
Powell Jobs’s Growing Political Role
Laurene Powell Jobs has gradually stepped into the political arena, a shift that began after the death of her husband in 2011. While Powell Jobs has always been cautious about public exposure, she has become more involved in political fundraising and advocacy over the past decade.
During the 2016 presidential campaign, Powell Jobs hosted exclusive fundraisers for Hillary Clinton. She has also used her wealth and connections to support Harris through various means, from personal donations to political events. Her presence in Washington has grown over the years, and she has visited the Biden-Harris White House several times, further solidifying her political connections.
Behind the Scenes Influence
While Powell Jobs has maintained a relatively low profile, her role behind the scenes cannot be underestimated. She has hosted high-profile fundraisers and been a consistent presence at key moments in Harris’s political journey. Powell Jobs’s close relationship with Harris has made her an important player in shaping Democratic strategies, especially concerning Harris’s presidential ambitions.
Powell Jobs’s company, Emerson Collective, has also played a significant role in Harris’s circle. As the owner of The Atlantic, Powell Jobs has occasionally found herself balancing her media influence with her political interests, sometimes hesitating to take a more active role in public political life.
Future Prospects
Looking ahead, Powell Jobs’s role in Harris’s future is uncertain but potentially significant. If Harris succeeds in her political endeavors, Powell Jobs could have an influential role in shaping policy, particularly in education, a key area of her philanthropic focus. Some speculate that Powell Jobs might even consider a formal role in a future Harris administration, though she remains noncommittal.
As Harris continues her rise, Laurene Powell Jobs will likely remain a key figure, helping shape the future of American politics through her strategic influence and enduring friendship with the vice president.
