U.S. Vice President Kamala Harris formally accepted the Democratic Party’s 2024 presidential nomination, setting the stage for a high-stakes contest against former President Donald Trump.
Harris, who will become the Democratic candidate following President Joe Biden’s withdrawal from the race last month, could make history as the first woman elected to the U.S. presidency.
Harris pledges unity and progress
At a packed event in Chicago’s United Center, Harris delivered her acceptance speech on the final night of the Democratic National Convention, which was marked by a strong emphasis on unity and working-class aspirations.
In her address, Harris promised to lead ‘for all Americans’ and champion an ‘opportunity economy.’
Harris declared:
On behalf of every American, regardless of party, race, gender, or the language your grandmother speaks, on behalf of everyone whose story could only be written in the greatest nation on earth, I accept your nomination for President of the United States of America
Focus on abortion rights
During her speech, Harris underscored her commitment to protecting abortion rights, a significant issue that has mobilized Democratic voters in recent elections.
She framed this election as a critical moment for the nation, describing it as an opportunity to move beyond past divisions and chart a ‘New Way Forward’ for America.
With this election, our nation has a precious and fleeting opportunity to move past the bitterness, cynicism, and divisive battles of the past. A chance to chart a New Way Forward, not as members of any one party or faction but as Americans.
Criticism of Donald Trump
Harris did not shy away from criticizing her rival, Donald Trump. She accused him of intending to “pull our country back” and warned of the dangers of his potential presidency without constraints.
This election is one of the most important in the life of our nation. Just imagine Donald Trump with no guardrails. How he would use the immense powers of the presidency of the United States, not to improve your life, but to serve the only client he has ever had… himself.
The Vice President also took the opportunity to thank President Biden, acknowledging his ‘extraordinary’ record and ‘inspiring’ character. Biden, who had delivered an emotional farewell speech at the convention, publicly expressed his support for Harris and her running mate, Tim Walz.
“I am proud to watch my partner Kamala Harris accept our nomination for president. She will be an outstanding president because she is fighting for our future,” <a href="http://<blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">Jill and I just spoke to <a href="https://twitter.com/KamalaHarris?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@KamalaHarris</a> — we can’t wait to watch her accept this historic nomination. <br><br>Kamala and Tim will inspire a generation and lead us into the future. <a href="https://t.co/guKuTevT8F">pic.twitter.com/guKuTevT8F</a></p>— Joe Biden (@JoeBiden) <a href="https://twitter.com/JoeBiden/status/1826789597600256189?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 23, 2024</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8">Biden wrote on social media.
Democratic convention highlights
Harris’s acceptance speech capped off a convention marked by both high-profile endorsements and controversy. Prominent figures such as Barack and Michelle Obama, and Bill Clinton, have emphasized the challenging fight ahead for Harris against Trump.
Demonstrations outside the convention center have also drawn attention, with protesters voicing opposition to U.S. support for Israel’s actions in Gaza.
A group of pro-Palestinian delegates, who were barred from speaking at the convention, staged a sit-in outside the arena, reflecting the tensions and divisions that have characterized the event.
Donald Trump’s reaction
In response to Harris’s speech, former President Trump criticized her remarks on social media, questioning ‘why she had not addressed the issues she criticized’.
The upcoming election promises to be a contentious one, with both candidates poised to campaign vigorously.
The next few months will see Harris and her team working to build a broad coalition of support while addressing the numerous challenges and criticisms they face.
As the 2024 presidential election approaches, all eyes will be on how Harris navigates these complex dynamics and how her campaign unfolds. Read about Kamala Harris net worth amidst her political career.
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