Willie Brown Comments on Kamala Harris: ‘She’ll deport my ass’
At 90, Harris’s mentor and former boyfriend is reveling in her ascent to power — along with those of his numerous other proteges.
TroibNews 
SAN FRANCISCO — Since Kamala Harris ascended to the role of vice president, her ex-boyfriend and early political influencer, often shares a humor-filled prediction.
If Harris ever ascends to the presidency, Willie Brown quips, “She’ll deport my ass.”
But during a conversation last weekend, the eternally sprightly 90-year-old ex-mayor of San Francisco was ready with a fresh take.
“She may send me back to Mineola,” Brown teased, pausing before delivering the twist: “Sending me back to Texas would be a deportment!”
A typical jest from Willie, yet it unveiled his reflective mood, pondering his origins in a tiny East Texas town from which he migrated west, like many African Americans from that region throughout the 20th century, seeking new prospects and a life of achievement — aspirations he realized abundantly.
In June, over a leisurely lunch – because what other kind is there? – we convened, not at his regular spot, but at Le Central, where since 1974, Brown has indulged every Friday in roast chicken and French fries with a drink of choice, surrounded by a slowly shrinking circle of friends.
Back then, I intended to profile how Brown, even at ninety, remained as candid and dapper as ever, especially about the political landscape, with his decades of experience.
Recently, since President Joe Biden stepped aside from the race, Brown disclosed he had fielded dozens of inquiries about Harris, despite not being in direct contact with her anymore. He suggested Biden should resign immediately to let the nation experience Harris as president pre-election. He advised Harris to downplay her groundbreaking identity, stressing that voters were looking for direct answers, and recommended she maintain her ambiguous ideological stance to keep her constituents guessing and adaptable.
More critically, Brown emphasized the need for Democratic unity behind Harris, particularly from California Governor Gavin Newsom, whom Brown noted had long vowed not to challenge Harris under any circumstances. Following Biden’s announcement, Brown has been actively encouraging Newsom to support Harris, according to several Democrats.
This aligns with Brown’s historical role in guiding influential political careers. Decades earlier, Brown exited Texas, leaving behind its oppressive Jim Crow laws, and found himself among the first African Americans entering elite societal echelons. He linked up with figures like Jesse Jackson and Doug Wilder, and maintained a presence in influential circles, from national conventions to the pages of prominent Black publications.
Recently, his political focus included praising Maryland’s Gov. Wes Moore, citing Moore's military background as a credential that transcends racial barriers, a viewpoint stemming from Brown's deep understanding of race and politics.
However, the evolving political drama also highlighted veteran politicians like Maxine Waters and Nancy Pelosi, who maneuvered behind the scenes during Biden’s resignation. Brown, with connections spanning from Pelosi helping him during an early Congress campaign to introducing Kamala Harris to notable political figures, demonstrates his enduring influence.
His lunch anecdotes extended beyond politics to personal stories, such as his involvement in navigations between high-profile figures like the Clintons and even Donald Trump, showcasing the intertwined nature of relationships in his long career.
Reflective of his legacy and the passage of time, Brown remains a prominent figure eager to see new leaders emerge, like his daughter Sydney, poised for a bright political future. Yet, when asked about his legacy, Brown humorously said he hoped it would be remembered that he “Didn’t serve any time,” before more seriously noting the many leaders he helped cultivate.
Ben Johansen contributed to this report.Reflecting on his extraordinary life influenced by both strategic partnerships and personal relationships, Brown remains hopeful about the future trajectory of American politics, fueled by the new generation of leaders he has mentored. His effective navigation within complex political networks underscores his vital role in shaping the landscape of California politics and, by extension, that of the nation.
As the political scene continues to evolve, Brown's legacy is evident not only in his high-profile protégés but also in the less celebrated yet equally significant achievements. These include transforming San Francisco's socioeconomic dynamics and championing urban development and civil rights during his tenure as mayor and beyond.
Far from disengaging, Brown continues to stay updated and influential, leveraging his extensive network to foster dialogue and understanding among current and future leaders. His sharp wit and candid insights have not only entertained but have also provided a unique perspective on the intricate workings of political life.
At the heart of Brown's story is a deep commitment to public service and a belief in the potential for politics to bring about positive change. It's this enduring passion that keeps him active in the political sphere, ensuring that his influence persists as new chapters in American politics unfold.
As the next election cycle approaches, and as his daughter Sydney prepares to enter the legal and political arena, Brown’s role as both a political icon and a family patriarch will continue to be a focal point for those who study and engage in public policy and governance. With decades of experience and a treasure trove of anecdotes, Brown remains a pivotal figure in American politics, ever-ready to offer his wisdom and guidance to those who seek it.
Indeed, the narrative of Willie Brown is far from complete. As American politics navigates new challenges and transitions, his insights and interventions remain as relevant as ever, providing a bridge between past achievements and future aspirations. In a rapidly changing world, the story of Willie Brown continues to inspire and inform, proving that true legacies extend far beyond one’s formal tenure in office.
James del Carmen for TROIB News
If Harris ever ascends to the presidency, Willie Brown quips, “She’ll deport my ass.”
But during a conversation last weekend, the eternally sprightly 90-year-old ex-mayor of San Francisco was ready with a fresh take.
“She may send me back to Mineola,” Brown teased, pausing before delivering the twist: “Sending me back to Texas would be a deportment!”
A typical jest from Willie, yet it unveiled his reflective mood, pondering his origins in a tiny East Texas town from which he migrated west, like many African Americans from that region throughout the 20th century, seeking new prospects and a life of achievement — aspirations he realized abundantly.
In June, over a leisurely lunch – because what other kind is there? – we convened, not at his regular spot, but at Le Central, where since 1974, Brown has indulged every Friday in roast chicken and French fries with a drink of choice, surrounded by a slowly shrinking circle of friends.
Back then, I intended to profile how Brown, even at ninety, remained as candid and dapper as ever, especially about the political landscape, with his decades of experience.
Recently, since President Joe Biden stepped aside from the race, Brown disclosed he had fielded dozens of inquiries about Harris, despite not being in direct contact with her anymore. He suggested Biden should resign immediately to let the nation experience Harris as president pre-election. He advised Harris to downplay her groundbreaking identity, stressing that voters were looking for direct answers, and recommended she maintain her ambiguous ideological stance to keep her constituents guessing and adaptable.
More critically, Brown emphasized the need for Democratic unity behind Harris, particularly from California Governor Gavin Newsom, whom Brown noted had long vowed not to challenge Harris under any circumstances. Following Biden’s announcement, Brown has been actively encouraging Newsom to support Harris, according to several Democrats.
This aligns with Brown’s historical role in guiding influential political careers. Decades earlier, Brown exited Texas, leaving behind its oppressive Jim Crow laws, and found himself among the first African Americans entering elite societal echelons. He linked up with figures like Jesse Jackson and Doug Wilder, and maintained a presence in influential circles, from national conventions to the pages of prominent Black publications.
Recently, his political focus included praising Maryland’s Gov. Wes Moore, citing Moore's military background as a credential that transcends racial barriers, a viewpoint stemming from Brown's deep understanding of race and politics.
However, the evolving political drama also highlighted veteran politicians like Maxine Waters and Nancy Pelosi, who maneuvered behind the scenes during Biden’s resignation. Brown, with connections spanning from Pelosi helping him during an early Congress campaign to introducing Kamala Harris to notable political figures, demonstrates his enduring influence.
His lunch anecdotes extended beyond politics to personal stories, such as his involvement in navigations between high-profile figures like the Clintons and even Donald Trump, showcasing the intertwined nature of relationships in his long career.
Reflective of his legacy and the passage of time, Brown remains a prominent figure eager to see new leaders emerge, like his daughter Sydney, poised for a bright political future. Yet, when asked about his legacy, Brown humorously said he hoped it would be remembered that he “Didn’t serve any time,” before more seriously noting the many leaders he helped cultivate.
Ben Johansen contributed to this report.Reflecting on his extraordinary life influenced by both strategic partnerships and personal relationships, Brown remains hopeful about the future trajectory of American politics, fueled by the new generation of leaders he has mentored. His effective navigation within complex political networks underscores his vital role in shaping the landscape of California politics and, by extension, that of the nation.
As the political scene continues to evolve, Brown's legacy is evident not only in his high-profile protégés but also in the less celebrated yet equally significant achievements. These include transforming San Francisco's socioeconomic dynamics and championing urban development and civil rights during his tenure as mayor and beyond.
Far from disengaging, Brown continues to stay updated and influential, leveraging his extensive network to foster dialogue and understanding among current and future leaders. His sharp wit and candid insights have not only entertained but have also provided a unique perspective on the intricate workings of political life.
At the heart of Brown's story is a deep commitment to public service and a belief in the potential for politics to bring about positive change. It's this enduring passion that keeps him active in the political sphere, ensuring that his influence persists as new chapters in American politics unfold.
As the next election cycle approaches, and as his daughter Sydney prepares to enter the legal and political arena, Brown’s role as both a political icon and a family patriarch will continue to be a focal point for those who study and engage in public policy and governance. With decades of experience and a treasure trove of anecdotes, Brown remains a pivotal figure in American politics, ever-ready to offer his wisdom and guidance to those who seek it.
Indeed, the narrative of Willie Brown is far from complete. As American politics navigates new challenges and transitions, his insights and interventions remain as relevant as ever, providing a bridge between past achievements and future aspirations. In a rapidly changing world, the story of Willie Brown continues to inspire and inform, proving that true legacies extend far beyond one’s formal tenure in office.
James del Carmen for TROIB News
