Kamala Harris Delivers Closing Argument Against Trump, Focusing on Unity, Democracy, and Progress
A Final Call to Action: The 2024 Election is Upon Us
In a powerful closing speech at Washington D.C.’s Ellipse, Vice President Kamala Harris made her case against Donald Trump, urging voters to choose a path centered on democracy, unity, and practical solutions for everyday Americans. Against the iconic backdrop of the White House, Harris emphasized her commitment to governing with empathy, stability, and accountability, sharply contrasting her approach with what she described as Trump’s divisive rhetoric and authoritarian tendencies.
“That’s Not Who We Are”
During her 30-minute address, Harris reminded Americans of Trump’s role on January 6, 2021, calling him an “unstable” leader who prioritizes personal grievances over the national interest. “Donald Trump has spent a decade trying to keep the American people divided and afraid of each other. That’s who he is,” she declared. “But America, I am here tonight to say: That’s not who we are.” Harris made it clear that under her leadership, her administration would focus on issues directly affecting citizens—such as the economy, healthcare, and immigration—highlighting a vision where disagreements are respected, not punished.
A Show of Unity and Patriotism: Harris’s Campaign as a Unifying Force
The Ellipse was filled with thousands of supporters, many holding American flags and “USA” signs, underscoring a message of patriotism over partisanship. Harris’s address was preceded by speeches from individuals impacted by divisive policies, including Craig Sicknick, brother of Capitol Police Officer Brian D. Sicknick, who died following the January 6 attack. The campaign also played a video featuring prominent conservatives, including former Congresswoman Liz Cheney, who supported Harris, adding credibility to her claims of standing for unity and democracy.
Contrasting Agendas: “To-Do List” vs. “Enemies List”
Harris stressed that she would work from a “to-do list” for the American people and emphasized her goal of inclusive governance. In contrast, she depicted Trump as a “petty tyrant” who would govern based on an “enemies list” aimed at punishing detractors. “It is time to stop pointing fingers and start locking arms,” Harris affirmed. She painted a stark choice for voters: a presidency dedicated to serving everyday Americans versus one focused on vendettas.
Rallying for the Final Week: The Crucial Moment in Harris’s Campaign
With a tight race in key battleground states, Harris’s campaign has leaned into high-visibility events aimed at reminding voters of Trump’s actions on January 6 and his recent rhetoric, which often downplays or reframes the Capitol riots. Her rally on Tuesday symbolized a direct response to Trump’s appearance at the Ellipse on that day nearly four years ago.
Rising Optimism Despite Challenges
Harris’s campaign remains confident despite the razor-thin margins in states like Pennsylvania, Wisconsin, and Georgia. Jen O’Malley Dillon, Harris’s campaign chair, noted the strong turnout of early voters and projected that the race would be determined by “margin-of-error” results in the final days. “We feel very good about where we are,” she said, underscoring the importance of Harris’s closing week events.
A Defining Moment for Democracy
In concluding remarks, Harris paid homage to those fighting for American freedoms. “They did not struggle, sacrifice, and lay down their lives only to see us cede our fundamental freedoms… to the schemes of wannabe dictators.” For Harris, the stakes of this election transcend politics; they reflect a choice between preserving democratic norms and endorsing a path she views as dangerously autocratic.