On Thursday in Chicago, Kamala Harris accepted the Democratic presidential nomination before an enthusiastic crowd, pledging a “new way forward” if she defeats Republican Donald Trump in the November election.
The 59-year-old vice president aimed to project a presidential tone with a message of unity and opportunity, following a remarkable political turnaround. She criticized Trump for attempting to take the country backward and for his ties with foreign “tyrants” like Russian President Vladimir Putin.
“To everyone whose story is part of this great nation, I accept your nomination to be president of the United States of America,” Harris declared to loud cheers. “I will be a president who unites us around our highest aspirations,” she promised.
The convention turned into a celebration of Harris’s rise from a political outsider to the Democratic standard-bearer after President Joe Biden’s unexpected decision to end his reelection bid. The arena was filled with American flags and chants of “USA” as jubilant Democrats celebrated Harris’s nomination.
Harris was joined on stage by her running mate Tim Walz and their families, and the event featured performances by The Chicks and Pink, among others.
In her speech, Harris pledged to be a “president for all Americans” and promised a chance to move past bitterness and divisive battles. She criticized Trump, highlighting a right-wing think tank’s plan for a future Republican government as a return to the past.
Harris shared her personal background as the child of a single working mother and a career prosecutor, contrasting herself with Trump, whom she accused of serving only himself and his wealthy friends. She also addressed key foreign policy issues, promising to secure a ceasefire between Israel and Hamas and to support Ukraine and NATO allies, diverging from Trump’s isolationist stance.
The Democrats have gained momentum since Harris took over from Biden, with Harris surpassing Trump in polls, drawing large crowds, and raising record funds. Biden, in a farewell speech, expressed pride in Harris and wished her success.
However, Democrats remain cautious as Harris faces a challenging race. Trump has intensified his campaign with personal attacks and inflammatory rhetoric, dismissing Harris’s speech as the “worst ever” and claiming she has led the nation into decline.
