Vice President Kamala Harris delivered a speech at the Democratic National Convention, accepting her party’s presidential nomination. Harris emphasized her background as a middle-class woman and criticized former President Donald Trump, portraying him as an unserious man with serious consequences for American democracy. She shared details about her upbringing in a working-class neighborhood and her mother’s journey from India to California to pursue her dream of becoming a scientist. Although Harris made promises about job creation, economic growth, healthcare, and other issues, she provided few specific policy details.
The Democratic Party has been energized by Harris’s nomination as President Biden’s 2024 running mate, despite the lack of a detailed policy agenda on her campaign website. The convention featured celebrity appearances, music performances, and speeches praising Harris’s energy and potential for bringing unity to the country. While attendees anticipated a surprise musical guest like Beyonce, NBA star Stephen Curry made an appearance and voiced support for Harris, urging Americans to vote. Harris criticized Trump during her speech, accusing him of selfishness and serious consequences if re-elected, while Trump criticized her on social media for lack of accomplishments in office.
Some Americans, like retired policeman Peter Garcia, were not impressed by Harris, questioning her readiness to speak and give interviews. Garcia expressed skepticism about her ability to answer questions confidently and urged her to give up. Harris’s campaign chair mentioned plans for her to do an interview by the end of the month and build on Biden’s administration without revealing new specifics. The final day of the convention included speeches from Rev. Al Sharpton, members of the Central Park Five, Sen. Elizabeth Warren, and Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer, who criticized Trump’s privileged upbringing and expressed trust in Harris’s leadership.
Harris discussed her decision to become a prosecutor in response to her high school friend’s sexual abuse, emphasizing her commitment to uniting the nation and moving past divisive politics. She outlined her vision of being a president who leads, listens, and fights for the American people, highlighting her experience in law and government as preparation for the role. Despite the lack of detailed policy proposals, Harris’s speech resonated with some delegates and attendees who praised her energy and potential to bring unity to a divided country. The convention showcased support for Harris as the Democratic Party’s nominee for the next President of the United States, with speakers like Warren expressing confidence in her ability to lead the nation forward.
