The Steve Jobs connection fuels Kamala Harris' rise to the top

Democratic presidential candidate Kamala Harris

Photo: AP

With the slow rise of Kamala Harris From California Senator to Vice President and now Democratic presidential candidate, one name has always remained the same behind the scenes: Jobs at Laurene PowellFormer wife of Steve Jobs and one of the richest people in Silicon Valley, Powell Jobs was an important source of advice and financial support in Harris' life.

Over the years, Powell Jobs has quietly emerged as a powerful player, cementing Harris' rise by donating millions to organizations that support her. “Laurene has a gift for friendship,” David Bradley, who sold The Atlantic to Powell Jobs, told the New York Times. “Kamala Harris is part of that circle of friends,” he added.

The friendship between Powell Jobs and Harris has lasted for decades. Powell Jobs supported Harris early in her career. They attended political rallies together, and Powell Jobs even attended Harris' wedding in 2014. The NYT report says the two women shared personal moments and traveled together, with Powell Jobs even offering Harris her private jet for travel.

Powell Jobs has so far kept a low profile politically. She also did not play a significant role during Harris' 2019 presidential campaign because, as the head of a media company, she wanted to portray herself as non-partisan. Since then, however, her involvement has intensified.

Powell Jobs hosted fundraisers and provided behind-the-scenes support, particularly when Harris was under public scrutiny during her tenure as vice president.

Powell Jobs' influence goes beyond financial support, say people who have followed her. She has pushed for greater Democratic support for Harris during controversial events and has joined with other wealthy donors to support Harris' campaigns. There is speculation that Powell Jobs could even take on an official role in the administration – perhaps in education – should Harris become president.

Powell Jobs hasn't ruled it out either. “That's not my intention,” she said in an interview in 2022. However, she added, “But I wouldn't necessarily shy away from another opportunity.”