WASHINGTON — In a significant gesture marking her final days in office, Vice President Kamala Harris participated in a time-honored tradition by signing her ceremonial desk drawer at the White House on Thursday. This ritual, which has been observed for nearly a century, sees outgoing vice presidents engrave their names into the drawer, a symbol of their service.

During the event, held in her formal office at the Eisenhower Executive Office Building, Harris expressed heartfelt gratitude towards her staff, calling them "extraordinary" for their dedication to public service and the American people’s aspirations. "We have each taken on a life and a calling that is about doing work in the service of others," she remarked, underscoring the importance of their collaborative efforts.

As she prepared to inscribe her name, Harris noted her connection to this long-standing practice, stating, "I stand in a long tradition as the 49th Vice President of the United States." Having met nearly all her predecessors who participated in this signing, she embraced the moment with pride. "Our work here has mattered," she emphasized, acknowledging the lasting impact of their commitment to public service.

Accompanied by Second Gentleman Doug Emhoff, who documented the occasion, Harris used a Sharpie to sign the drawer, following in the footsteps of previous vice presidents since the Ford administration. Amid cheers from her gathered staff chanting "MVP! MVP!", speculations circulated about her future political ambitions, particularly regarding the possibility of running for governor of California.

In her closing remarks, Harris reassured her staff that their work was not yet finished, saying, "I will tell you that everyone here has so much to be proud of," hinting at her ongoing engagement in public life. You can read more about this historic signing at the India Times.