By ReShonda Tate, Defender
Kamala Harris appealed to Americans on Thursday to rise above political divisions and embrace a “new way forward” as she accepted her party’s nomination, blending personal stories with a stark warning about the risks of reelecting Donald Trump.
Addressing a cheering crowd at the Democratic National Convention in Chicago, the vice president emphasized her unique background as both a prosecutor and an advocate for public service. She cast Trump as someone who prioritizes personal gain over the nation’s needs.
“This election offers a fleeting chance to move beyond past bitterness and division,” Harris said. “It’s an opportunity to forge a new path, not as members of any particular party, but as Americans united.”
As the first Black woman and person of South Asian descent to accept a major party’s presidential nomination, Harris would also become the first female president if elected. Though she did not highlight these historic milestones in her 40-minute speech, she referenced a bipartisan border bill that Trump had previously obstructed, promising to sign it into law if elected.
Her speech aimed to resonate with a broad audience, including those previously disenchanted with both presidential candidates. Harris’s address, which marked the end of the convention, included appearances by several figures who had distanced themselves from Trump but supported Biden’s policies.
Harris shared her personal journey, highlighting her upbringing by her mother and extended family in San Francisco after her parents’ divorce. She recounted how a close friend’s experience of abuse motivated her decision to become a prosecutor.
“My entire career has been dedicated to serving the people,” Harris stated. “In contrast, Trump has always acted in his own interest.”
The convention’s final moments featured a symbolic balloon drop and a tribute to Harris’s family. Earlier, her grandnieces led the crowd in pronouncing her name, which means “lotus” in Sanskrit.
On her 10th wedding anniversary to Doug Emhoff, whom she affectionately referred to as “Dougie,” Harris received a supportive kiss from him as she began her speech.
Harris directly appealed to Republicans who are opposed to Trump, urging them to set aside party affiliations and support her. She reaffirmed her commitment to uphold constitutional principles and ensure a fair transfer of power.
The convention also featured remarks from former Rep. Adam Kinzinger, a Republican critic of Trump, who encouraged his fellow Republicans to consider the fundamental principles of decency and allegiance to the nation over party loyalty.
Harris emphasized her prosecutor background while discussing Trump’s intentions, criticizing his plan to pardon those involved in the January 6 Capitol riot and his authoritarian tendencies.
In response, Trump dismissed Harris’s speech, questioning her focus and criticizing her for not addressing specific policy issues.
On national security, Harris vowed to bolster U.S. alliances, particularly with NATO, and support Ukraine against Russian aggression. She also promised to address the ongoing conflict in Israel while protecting U.S. forces from adversaries.
Harris underscored her commitment to restoring nationwide abortion access and criticized Trump and Republicans for their support of abortion bans.
Although Harris faced scrutiny for avoiding detailed policy proposals, she outlined broad promises in various areas, from voting rights to housing and border security. She drew on her experience as San Francisco district attorney, California attorney general, and U.S. Senator.
Following Biden’s decision to end his reelection bid, Harris took the lead in the presidential race, uniting the Democratic Party and positioning herself as a strong contender against Trump.
Concluding her speech, Harris urged supporters to remain active and energized for the remaining campaign period. “Let’s get to work for the next 75 days,” she said. “We’re going to win this.”
