Warning: this episode contains strong language and mentions of sexual abuse.

Since 2019, our host, Astead Herndon, has been reporting on Kamala Harris — from her campaign for the 2020 Democratic nomination to her time as vice president. Over the years, the same questions have swirled around her.

What does she stand for? How does she make decisions? Was she only selected as President Biden’s running mate because of her race and gender?

Today, Ms. Harris is the presumptive Democratic nominee after Mr. Biden decided to withdraw from the 2024 race. Americans are once again looking at Ms. Harris as their potential president.

And on “The Run-Up,” we wanted to play two excerpts from conversations that get at those essential questions. One is with a longtime friend of Ms. Harris. And one is with the vice president herself.

On today’s episode:

Senator Laphonza Butler, Democrat of California

Vice President Kamala Harris