Deputy Chief of Staff

Former Vice President Kamala Harris sharply criticized Donald Trump’s administration during a speech in San Francisco on April 30, 2025, calling it a threat to American ideals. In response, White House officials, including Deputy Chief of Staff Stephen Miller and Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt, held a press briefing the next day. Miller denounced Harris’s remarks, accusing her and the Biden administration of enabling crime, promoting harmful policies, and weakening national security. He claimed Trump’s leadership had “saved America,” while Leavitt mockingly encouraged Harris to continue speaking publicly, implying her criticisms backfire.

Separately, Leavitt previously drew backlash for mocking former President Biden’s age during his April 15 speech on Social Security, calling his late-night appearance surprising. Critics online called her comments disrespectful and unprofessional. Biden’s speech focused on protecting Social Security and opposing changes under Trump’s administration, which include workforce cuts and controversial data-sharing with Elon Musk’s department. The resulting issues—such as delayed services and privacy concerns—have raised alarm, particularly among disabled citizens. Biden’s return to public discourse, along with Harris’s remarks, highlights increasing political division and concern over the current administration’s direction.