#6 "Gavin Newsom, Shyamala, Kamala's Not a Prude" Matthew Rothschild, Member of Harris's Kitchen Cabinet

100 Days of Kamala

In this episode of 100 Days of Kamala, Priya David Clemens sits down with Matthew Rothschild, a key figure in Vice President Kamala Harris’s early political career and a personal friend who has known her since the mid-1990s. With more than 30 years of experience in San Francisco politics, Rothschild served as an advisor to Kamala during her campaigns for San Francisco District Attorney and California Attorney General. His unique perspective offers listeners a behind-the-scenes glimpse of Kamala’s rise to prominence, showcasing both her experience as a leader and the personal traits that set her apart.

Rothschild shares candid stories about Kamala’s deep-rooted family influence, particularly the pivotal role her late mother, Shyamala Gopalan, played in shaping her values and ambitions. "Her mother was one of the most extraordinary women I’ve ever met in my life," Rothschild recalls. He describes how Shyamala’s brilliance, resilience, and humor were cornerstones of Kamala’s upbringing and deeply informed her approach to life and leadership. Shyamala’s pride in her South Asian heritage and her groundbreaking work as a cancer researcher were instrumental in shaping Kamala’s drive and sense of justice.

The episode also delves into Kamala’s early political challenges, including her 2003 campaign for San Francisco District Attorney, where she faced tough odds and a well-established incumbent. Rothschild reflects on those early days, describing how Kamala’s intelligence, work ethic, and charisma drew people to her campaign, even when she was polling at only 6%. He also touches on the hurdles Kamala faced as a woman in politics, noting how "they tried to criticize her for her personal life, which I think is quite misogynist. They don’t ask men who they dated 10 or 15 years ago."

One of the episode’s highlights is Rothschild’s recounting of Kamala’s relationship with California Governor Gavin Newsom. Despite being allies in many ways, Rothschild acknowledges that "there’s always been a little rivalry. Of course there has been. They were both from a new generation moving up and had similar backing with financial and political supporters." He recalls the awkwardness when Newsom’s wife worked for Kamala’s opponent during her DA campaign and how Rothschild once playfully confronted Newsom about whether he’d vote for Kamala. Rothschild also praises Newsom’s decision to support Kamala’s presidential bid in 2024, stating, "He did the right thing for so many reasons. Running against her would’ve left a lot of battle scars."

Listeners are also treated to personal anecdotes that show a side of Kamala that’s rarely seen in public. Rothschild fondly recalls Kamala’s sense of humor and her ability to connect on a personal level. "Kamala’s not a prude," he emphasizes. "She’s fun, has a great laugh, and she knows how to dish." These moments reveal a leader who, despite her serious public image, enjoys lighthearted moments and values close relationships with her friends.

From her deep family roots to the political rivalries and friendships that shaped her career, this episode provides an intimate portrait of Kamala Harris as a person and a politician. Tune in for a rich discussion that sheds light on the human side of one of America’s most prominent leaders and explores the journey that has taken her from San Francisco politics to the national stage.