Kamala Harris on Defund the Police

Kamala Harris has explicitly stated that she does not support the 'Defund the Police' movement, framing the concept as misguided rhetoric that undermines public safety. Her core position emphasizes a comprehensive approach that supports law enforcement in addressing serious crime while simultaneously advocating for significant community investment to prevent crime. As recently as June 2020, while discussing the protests against police brutality, she called upon communities to "reimagine how we create public safety," noting that many cities allocate a disproportionate share of resources to law enforcement while neglecting social services like education and housing proven to be preventative.

This stance on resource allocation is often contrasted with her past statements, where she appeared to embrace aspects of the movement by suggesting a redirection of resources away from law enforcement. Her supporters clarify that she has consistently sought to bolster police effectiveness through funding while also championing investments in community collaborations, such as violence intervention programs and community responder teams. Furthermore, the current administration under which she serves championed significant federal investment in state and local public safety efforts through legislation like the American Rescue Plan Act.