Chronicle Books is reportedly scrambling after allegations surfaced that Vice President Kamala Harris plagiarized parts of her 2009 book Smart on Crime. Conservative journalist Christopher Rufo exposed the alleged plagiarism, prompting an internal crisis at the publishing house. According to Rufo, Chronicle Books accidentally forwarded him an internal email detailing their strategy to manage the situation.
The email, sent from the company’s VP of Marketing, instructed staff to direct any inquiries about the plagiarism allegations to higher-ups and not to respond publicly. Rufo shared the email on X, showing the publisher’s concern over the sensitive matter.
Rufo’s report has triggered a media response, with outlets like the New York Times addressing the plagiarism claims. However, critics argue that the media is downplaying the seriousness of the issue. A plagiarism expert quoted in the Times acknowledged that some passages were copied but claimed it was “not serious” and more of an oversight.
Conservative commentators have criticized the media’s handling of the situation, accusing them of running cover for Harris. Rufo mocked the media’s portrayal, saying they described his report as conservatives “seizing” on the plagiarism.
Sen. J.D. Vance (R-OH) added fuel to the fire, taking a shot at Harris, saying, “I wrote my own book, unlike Kamala Harris, who copied hers from Wikipedia.” The plagiarism scandal comes at a critical moment for Harris as her presidential campaign faces growing scrutiny.
