Vice President Kamala Harris delivered a speech in which she warned about Donald Trump’s autocratic tendencies, quoting his own top military adviser, General Mark Milley, who called Trump “fascist to the core.” Harris invited Republicans to join her presidential campaign, citing warnings about Trump’s unfitness to serve from various individuals, including former Republican members of Congress and aides to Republican presidents. The speech was delivered in a suburban area near Philadelphia, aiming to attract college-educated Republicans who may be disenchanted with Trump. Harris emphasized the dangers of Trump’s actions and views, likening them to fascism and highlighting the events of January 6, 2021, when a coup attempt took place.
Harris made explicit overtures to Republicans, illustrating her campaign’s belief that there are significant numbers of mainline GOP voters who have turned away from Trump in recent years. She emphasized the impact of the events of January 6, particularly discussing what might have happened if Trump’s coup attempt had succeeded with a more compliant vice president. Harris criticized Trump’s rhetoric about Americans who oppose him, labeling them as an “enemy from within” and highlighting his threats to use the U.S. military against them. She described Trump as increasingly unstable and unhinged, seeking unchecked power and targeting journalists, election officials, and judges who do not support him.
In her address, Harris pledged to include a Republican in her cabinet and govern in a more practical and bipartisan manner. She closed her speech with a quote from Ronald Reagan, positioning herself as a defender of American ideals and patriotism. Harris also referenced the concept of America as a “shining city upon a hill,” echoing Reagan’s sentiments about the country. The speech marked a strong warning about the dangers of Trump’s behavior and the need for unity and bipartisan cooperation to uphold the values of the nation.
Throughout her speech, Harris highlighted the increasing concern about Trump’s actions and rhetoric, particularly in the aftermath of the January 6 coup attempt. She underscored the importance of defending American democracy against threats of authoritarianism and emphasized the need for a united front against such behaviors. By quoting individuals who have served under Trump, including General Mark Milley, Harris sought to make a compelling case for her presidency as a bulwark against autocratic tendencies. Her remarks were directed not only at Democrats but also at disillusioned Republicans who may be willing to cross party lines in response to the perceived dangers posed by Trump’s leadership.
Harris emphasized the importance of bipartisan cooperation and unity in addressing the challenges facing the country, particularly in the face of threats to democratic institutions and norms. By reaching out to Republicans and presenting herself as a candidate who values practical governance and respect for the rule of law, Harris sought to present a contrast to what she portrayed as Trump’s divisive and authoritarian style. The speech served as a rallying cry for Americans of all political stripes to come together in defense of the nation’s founding principles and ideals, highlighting the stakes of the upcoming presidential election and the need for a leadership that prioritizes unity and shared values.
