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Who Is Karen Dunn? Key figure behind Kamala Harris' debate preparations

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Karen Dunn has gained attention as a trusted debate coach for Vice President Kamala Harris , while also serving as a top lawyer representing Google in its high-stakes legal battles. Dunn's dual roles have raised eyebrows, particularly as her work with Google intersects with the Biden administration’s Justice Department, which is currently suing the tech giant over antitrust concerns.

Dunn's influence as Kamala Harris' debate coach has played a crucial role in shaping her recent debate performance. According to The New York Times, Harris gained slightly in the polls following her debate with Donald Trump, though it may take more time to measure the full impact. Hillary Clinton, who worked with Dunn during her 2008 and 2016 presidential campaigns, praised Dunn’s “tough love” approach, noting that she provides honest feedback while also offering encouragement. Clinton shared, “She’s unafraid to say, ‘That’s not going to work’ or ‘You can do better,’ but also supports with, ‘You’re on the right track.’”

Harris currently leads Trump by three percentage points in national polls, with swing states remaining highly competitive.

Dunn, a litigator at Paul Weiss , opened Google’s defense in a federal court case targeting its digital ad business. Shortly after, she reportedly helped Harris prepare for her debate with Donald Trump in Philadelphia. The dual roles have drawn criticism from tech antitrust experts, who fear potential conflicts of interest. According to The New York Post, some have expressed concern that her close ties to Harris could influence future settlements with the Justice Department.

Beyond her role with Google, Dunn has an extensive legal career. According to the Paul Weiss website, she has represented major clients such as Uber and Apple in significant legal victories. Her work includes defending Uber in a trade secrets trial and securing a $4 billion win for Apple.

Dunn has also served as an Assistant U.S. Attorney in Virginia, an Associate White House Counsel under President Obama, and a law clerk for both Judge Merrick Garland and Supreme Court Justice Stephen Breyer, according to the Paul Weiss website.

Who is Karen Dunn?
  • Top lawyer representing Google in a major antitrust case.
  • Key debate coach for Kamala Harris in 2020.
  • Renowned for winning high-stakes cases for clients like Uber and Apple.
  • Co-Chair of the Litigation Department at Paul Weiss law firm.
  • Involved in major civil rights cases, including the Charlottesville neo-Nazi trial.
  • Frequently recognized as a “Litigator of the Year” by The American Lawyer.
  • Former Associate White House Counsel under President Obama.
  • Assisted with presidential debate preparations for Obama, Clinton, and Harris.
  • Co-Executive Director of the Paul Weiss Center to Combat Hate.
  • Listed as a "Star Individual" by Chambers and Partners for her courtroom skills.
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