U.S. News
12 Weirdest Kamala Harris Moments
By Jake Beardslee · July 31, 2024
The "Fell Out of a Coconut Tree" Meme
During a press conference in 2023, Harris shared an anecdote from her mother that led to the infamous "fell out of a coconut tree" meme.Harris stated, "I don't know what's wrong with you young people, you think you just fell out of a coconut tree? You exist in the context of all in which you live and what came before you."
The phrase, intended to highlight the importance of understanding one's context, quickly went viral for being unhinged but strangely inspiring.
Laughing Off Socialism Accusations
In a "60 Minutes" interview, Harris awkwardly laughed when asked if her policies would bring a socialist perspective to the White House. Her response, filled with personal anecdotes and an odd segue into liking hip-hop, left many viewers puzzled. Christine Tannous/IndyStar / USA TODAY NETWORK
Using a French Accent in Paris
While visiting the Institut Pasteur in France, Harris attempted to use a French accent while speaking to scientists. After the video went viral, members of the public criticized the vice president, alleging that she had affected an inauthentic French accent. Jovanny Hernandez / Milwaukee Journal Sentinel / USA TODAY NETWORK
Confusing Russia and Ukraine Explanation
During an interview with The Morning Hustle, Harris explained the Russia-Ukraine conflict, stating, "Ukraine is a country in Europe. It exists next to another country called Russia. Russia is a bigger country." Senate Democrats / Wikimedia
"Significance of the Passage of Time" Speech
At an event in Lousiana, Harris repeatedly emphasized the "significance of the passage of time" in a speech that left many scratching their heads. The repetitive nature of her remarks became a point of mockery online. Jovanny Hernandez / Milwaukee Journal Sentinel / USA TODAY NETWORK
Mike Pence and the Fly Incident
During the 2020 vice-presidential debate, a fly landed on Mike Pence's head, stealing the spotlight. Harris's restrained reaction and subsequent awkward discussion about the incident on "The Rachel Maddow Show" added to the strangeness of the moment. Kelly Wilkinson/IndyStar / USA TODAY NETWORK
Uncomfortable Laughter During Refugee Question
In a video clip of a press conference in Poland, Harris seemed to laugh awkwardly when asked about the U.S. accepting Ukrainian refugees. The laugh, interpreted by some as insensitive, was later clarified as a moment of confusion over speaking order. Office of the Vice President of the United States / Wikimedia
The "Community Banks" Speech
During a speech about a $12 billion investment in community banks, Vice President Harris repeatedly used the word "community," drawing attention and mixed reactions on social media."We invested an additional $12 billion into community banks, because we know community banks are in the community, and understand the needs and desires of that community as well as the talent and capacity of the community," Harris said.
Some viewers found the repetition notable, leading to increased discussion of her public speaking style. The White House / Wikimedia
Misunderstanding NATO's Eastern Flank
During a visit to Poland and Romania, Harris mixed up NATO's geographical terms, referring to the eastern flank as the northern flank. The error, during a crucial moment of demonstrating U.S. support, was widely noted and corrected later. The White House / Wikimedia
"A Friend in Need" Comment
While discussing U.S. support for Ukraine, Harris made an awkward joke, "A friend in need is a friend indeed," followed by an uneasy laugh, according to Metro UK. Office of the Vice President of the United States / Wikimedia
Trump as "A Really Small Dude"
In a Democratic debate, Harris likened Donald Trump to the Wizard of Oz's "really small dude" behind the curtain, a comment that seemed to fall flat and was met with an awkward response from the audience and moderator. Lorie Shaull from St Paul, United States / Wikimedia