Vice President Kamala Harris made a surprise appearance at the opening night of the Democratic National Convention in Chicago, where she praised President Joe Biden for his “historic leadership” and expressed deep gratitude for his service.
Her remarks, delivered to an enthusiastic crowd at the United Center, come as the Democratic Party faces growing concerns about Biden’s viability as the 2024 nominee.
The Vice President, slated to address the convention later this week formally, took the stage unannounced, capturing the attention of attendees and political analysts.
“It is so good to be with everyone this evening in this hall and everyone at home,” Harris began, addressing the enthusiastic audience.
“This is going to be a great week. And I want to kick us off by celebrating our incredible president, Joe Biden, who will be speaking later tonight. Joe, thank you for your historic leadership, for your lifetime of service to our nation, and for all you will continue to do. We are forever grateful to you.”
Harris’s impromptu speech not only lauded Biden’s leadership but also seemed to be a strategic move to rally support for the President amidst growing concerns within the party.
Just weeks ago, Biden was considered the presumptive nominee, having secured victories in every Democratic primary without significant opposition.
However, a poor showing in a debate against former President Trump has led to increasing calls from within the Democratic ranks for Biden to withdraw from the race.
Reports indicate that Biden himself has been “stunned” by the internal pressure, making Harris’s public endorsement particularly noteworthy.
As the audience cheered, Harris spoke to the broader Democratic vision, highlighting the unity of the diverse crowd present.
“People from every corner of our country and every walk of life are here, united by our shared vision for the future of our country,” she said. “And this November, we will come together and declare with one voice as one people, we are moving forward.”
Harris concluded her speech with a call to action, urging Democrats to stay optimistic and committed to their ideals.
“With optimism, hope, and faith so guided by our love of country, knowing we all have so much more in common than what separates us, let us fight for the ideals we hold dear and let us always remember when we fight, we win. God bless you. God bless the United States of America.”
Harris’s remarks, though brief, aimed to rally support for Biden amid growing divisions within the Democratic Party.
However, as the party faces increasing internal struggles and questions about Biden’s leadership, her words may do little to quell the doubts of many Americans who are concerned about the direction in which the country is headed.
With Harris now positioned to take a more central role, the coming election season promises to be contentious and deeply polarized.