Harris Rallies Democrats with Patriotic Message
Vice President Kamala Harris closed an extraordinary month in politics on Thursday night. She delivered a speech that energized Democrats with themes of patriotism and framed Donald Trump as an opponent of core American values.
Defending Democracy
Harris was clear about her stance. “In the enduring struggle between democracy and tyranny, I know where I stand. And I know where the United States belongs,” she declared.
A Prosecutor’s Cadence
With the precision of a prosecutor, Harris fulfilled the expectations many had when she first ran for president five years ago. Her selection by Joe Biden as his running mate in 2020 was seen as a promise she delivered on tonight.
Direct Attack on Trump
Harris did not hold back on her criticism of Trump. She outlined his legal issues, blamed him for the impact of strict state abortion laws, and reminded the audience of the “chaos and calamity when he was in office.”
“In many ways, Donald Trump is an unserious man,” she said. “But the consequences of putting Donald Trump back in the White House are extremely serious.”
Balloons Drop at the Democratic National Convention Finale in Chicago on August 23, 2024.
Key Issues at Stake
Kamala Harris emphasized that the upcoming election is crucial for securing various freedoms. These include the right to live without fear of gun violence in schools, communities, and places of worship. She also highlighted the freedom to love openly and proudly, the right to clean air and water, and the essential freedom to vote.
Vice President Kamala Harris Addresses the DNC at Chicago’s United Center on August 22, 2024
Harris Honors Her Mother’s Strength
Vice President Kamala Harris spoke about her mother’s resilience, describing her as a brilliant, five-foot-tall woman with a strong accent. Harris, as the eldest child, observed the world’s sometimes unfair treatment of her mother, but she never saw her lose her composure.
Subtle Contrast with Trump
Harris didn’t directly compare her upbringing to former President Trump’s, but others throughout the week contrasted her modest childhood with Trump’s privileged life as the son of a real estate mogul.
A Personal Story That Shaped Her Career
Harris recounted a pivotal moment in high school when her friend Wanda Kagan confided in her about being sexually abused by her stepfather. Harris insisted that her friend stay with her family, and this experience influenced her decision to become a prosecutor to protect people like Wanda.
Allies Highlight Harris’ Career
Throughout the convention, Harris’ allies emphasized her strong legal background. During her 2020 campaign, she faced criticism for her role in law enforcement, but now she’s leaning on her resume as a strength. Speakers highlighted her work against transnational gangs, sexual abusers, and corporate criminals.
Final DNC Moments Amy Resner, a former deputy district attorney, described Harris as someone who practiced law to protect the vulnerable and give victims a voice. Lisa Madigan, the former attorney general of Illinois, praised Harris for her work during the financial crisis to prevent foreclosures. Nathan Hornes, a former student of a defunct for-profit school, commended her successful prosecution of the school for defrauding students.
Powerful Testimony from Survivors
Courtney Baldwin, a human trafficking survivor and youth organizer, delivered a striking testimony. She spoke of how Harris worked tirelessly to shut down a website that traffickers used to exploit victims. “She’s protected people like me her whole life,” Baldwin said.
Harris’ Family Takes the Stage
Final DNC Moments Harris’ grandnieces, Amara and Leela Ajagu, joined actress Kerry Washington on stage to address the ongoing mispronunciation of Harris’ name by Trump and other Republicans. Amara explained, “First, you say comma, like a comma in a sentence.” Leela added in a playful tone, “Then you say la, like la, la, la, la, la.” The demonstration was both endearing and pointed.
Abbas Alawieh, Co-founder of Uncommitted Movement, Joins Michigan Delegates at DNC in Chicago on August 19, 2024
Alawieh Criticizes DNC’s Disconnect
Abbas Alawieh, co-founder of the Uncommitted Movement, expressed disappointment with the DNC and Harris campaign, saying they are out of touch with the majority of Democratic voters. He emphasized that many in the Democratic base prioritize Palestinian human rights alongside other key issues.
Harris Addresses the Middle East Conflict
Vice President Harris didn’t shy away from discussing the situation in Gaza. While she firmly pledged support for Israel and condemned the October 7 attacks by Hamas, she also acknowledged the immense suffering in Gaza over the past 10 months. She described the loss of innocent lives and the ongoing humanitarian crisis as “devastating” and “heartbreaking.”
Star Power Lights Up the Convention
Final DNC Moments This year’s Democratic National Convention wasn’t just about politics; it was a star-studded event. Celebrities like Lil Jon, Oprah Winfrey, and Mindy Kaling made appearances, while artists such as Mickey Guyton, Maren Morris, and Jason Isbell performed. Stevie Wonder and John Legend added to the musical lineup, with the latter paying tribute to Prince alongside Sheila E.
Beyoncé Rumors and Final Night Performances
Fina l DNC Moments Speculation swirled throughout the week about a possible Beyoncé appearance, given her song “Freedom” has become an anthem for Harris’ campaign. However, by late Thursday, it was confirmed that she would not be performing. Despite this, the convention’s final night still packed a punch with performances from Pink and others, energizing the crowd and highlighting Harris’ rise.
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