Kamala Harris's Pastor Amos Brown's Controversial Past Scrutinized Ahead of Potential Presidential Run

Rev. Amos Brown, a longtime mentor to Vice President Kamala Harris, has come under scrutiny for his past anti-American rhetoric, including blaming the United States for the 9/11 attacks. Brown's comments, which have resurfaced as Harris considers a potential presidential run, have raised concerns among some political observers who fear that they could damage her campaign.

Vice President Kamala Harris's longtime pastor, Rev. Amos Brown, has come under fire for his past anti-American rhetoric, including blaming the United States for the 9/11 terrorist attacks. Brown's comments, which have resurfaced as Harris considers a potential presidential run, have raised concerns among some political observers who fear that they could damage her campaign.

Kamala Harris's Pastor Amos Brown's Controversial Past Scrutinized Ahead of Potential Presidential Run

In a speech days after the 2001 attacks, Brown questioned America's role in the global order, asking, "America, America, what did you do – either intentionally or unintentionally – in the world order, in Central America, in Africa where bombs are still blasting?" He also criticized the United States for its inaction at international conferences on global warming and racism.

Brown's comments drew immediate backlash, with Rep. Nancy Pelosi (D-Calif.) rebuking him for blaming the victims of the 9/11 attacks. Paul Holm, who lost his partner Mark Bingham in the United Airlines Flight 93 crash, walked out of the memorial service where Brown spoke, saying it was a "political event" rather than a day of remembrance.

Kamala Harris's Pastor Amos Brown's Controversial Past Scrutinized Ahead of Potential Presidential Run

Despite the controversy, Harris has repeatedly praised Brown, calling him a "voice of leadership" and a "source of inspiration." She has also given him multiple shout-outs during speeches as vice president. In 2022, she referred to Brown as "on this journey with me every step of the way" during the NAACP National Convention.

Brown's past rhetoric is likely to face increased scrutiny as political operatives and media outlets start combing through his past comments. This could mirror the 2008 campaign when then-candidate Barack Obama faced backlash for his association with his controversial pastor Jeremiah Wright, whose sermons included the infamous "Not God bless America, God damn America" line.

Kamala Harris's Pastor Amos Brown's Controversial Past Scrutinized Ahead of Potential Presidential Run

Brown's comments could particularly resonate with voters who are critical of America's foreign policy or who believe that the United States has benefited from systemic racism. Some political observers believe that Harris's association with Brown could alienate moderate or independent voters who are not sympathetic to such views.

Harris's campaign has not yet responded to requests for comment on Brown's past rhetoric. However, allies of Harris have defended her, arguing that she is not responsible for the views of her pastor. They have also pointed to her record as a prosecutor and senator, which they say demonstrates her commitment to justice and equality.

Kamala Harris's Pastor Amos Brown's Controversial Past Scrutinized Ahead of Potential Presidential Run

As Harris considers a potential presidential run, Brown's comments are likely to continue to be a source of scrutiny. Whether they will ultimately damage her campaign remains to be seen, but they certainly raise questions about her judgment and the potential risks of her association with a pastor who has made controversial statements about America.