WASHINGTON – Standing before a brightly lit White House, Democratic presidential nominee Kamala Harris appealed to undecided voters on Tuesday night, urging them to “turn the page” on Donald Trump. She sought to redefine the significance of the Ellipse, contrasting her vision with the chaos of Trump’s January 6 speech that preceded the insurrection at the U.S. Capitol.
In her address, Harris highlighted her optimistic vision for the presidency while critiquing Trump for fostering discord during his time in office. “For too long, America has been mired in division, chaos, and distrust. We must remember that it doesn’t have to be this way,” she asserted. “It’s time to stop pointing fingers and start coming together. Let’s leave behind the drama, conflict, fear, and division.”
Addressing a crowd estimated by her campaign at 75,000, she declared, “We need a new generation of leadership in America. I am ready to provide that leadership.” With just a week until Election Day on November 5, both Harris and Trump have exchanged barbs while campaigning across the nation in a tightly contested race. They have focused on engaging disenchanted voters, holding large rallies that attract significant attention.
Throughout the campaign, Trump has targeted Harris, blaming her for inflation and rising prices, as well as the surge in immigration. In response, Trump’s campaign criticized Harris’ speech, calling it “dark, angry, and desperate.” “While Kamala spreads division, President Trump focuses on the real issues that matter to voters: fixing the economy, securing the border, and restoring America’s strength,” they stated.
Harris directed her remarks primarily at Americans who may not be planning to vote, acknowledging that many in attendance likely already had. She reminded them of Trump’s actions on January 6, stating, “We know who Donald Trump is. He stood right here almost four years ago, sending an armed mob to the Capitol to overturn a free and fair election he knew he lost.”
She promised a different approach if elected, saying, “My presidency will be different because our challenges are different. Four years ago, we were focused on the pandemic; now, our top challenge is lowering costs that were rising even before the pandemic.”
Despite being frequently asked how she differs from President Biden, Harris has been cautious about drawing contrasts. She emphasized her commitment to working with all Americans and highlighted her proposals to lower costs, including banning price gouging, capping insulin prices, and aiding first-time homebuyers.
As Election Day nears, Harris acknowledged that she is still introducing herself to many voters. While she aimed to outline a new direction for the country, President Biden’s earlier comments about a comedian’s derogatory remarks regarding Puerto Rico briefly overshadowed her speech. Biden condemned the rhetoric, calling it “unconscionable and un-American,” prompting backlash from Republicans and Trump, who criticized Biden’s comments as terrible and reminiscent of past campaign remarks against his supporters.
Reclaiming the Ellipse from January 6
Before Harris took the stage, thousands of supporters lined up from the National Mall to Pennsylvania Avenue. Street vendors offered merchandise in support of her campaign, while upbeat music set a lively atmosphere. Attendees showcased their support with shirts reading “Vote” and “Black Lives Matter,” while some even dressed in homage to Harris’ favorite Converse shoes.
Inside the venue, a DJ played songs from artists who have endorsed Harris, including Taylor Swift and Jennifer Lopez, alongside classic tracks like the Village People’s “Y.M.C.A.” Attendees enjoyed a variety of snacks, with volunteers distributing cotton candy and other treats throughout the evening.
Among the supporters was Daraja Carroll, a 28-year-old who traveled to the event from nearby. “I couldn’t just sit at home,” she said, sharing her pride as a Black woman attorney and descendant of enslaved people. “It’s important to reclaim this space,” she added, referencing the historical significance of the location and Harris’ role in addressing systemic injustices.
Tosha Taylor, a veteran, remarked on the clear contrast between Harris’ rally and Trump’s events from four years ago. “This gathering is full of solidarity and patriotism,” she said, emphasizing the positive atmosphere compared to the hostility of the past.
Supporters like Suzy Wagner expressed their belief in Harris’ message, noting that it stands in stark contrast to Trump’s fear-mongering tactics. “We’re just over it,” she said, summarizing the sentiment among many in the crowd who seek a new direction for the country.
