Kamala Harris formally accepted the Democratic Party’s nomination for President of the United States during her speech at the 2024 Democratic National Convention (DNC) in Chicago.
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| US President Joe Biden, Democratic presidential candidate, and US Vice President Kamala Harris.Credit: Reuters File Photo |
Speaking on the final night of the convention, the vice president highlighted her unwavering commitment to serving the American people, declaring, “I’ve only had one client — the people.” Reflecting on her career as a former prosecutor, Harris described her work as a “life’s work” devoted to defending the public, from her early days in the courtroom to her current role in the White House.
In her speech, Harris outlined her vision for America if elected president, focusing on her deep commitment to the country’s core principles. She vowed to be a president who unites the nation, placing the country’s needs above party and personal interests. "You can always trust me to put country above party and self," she assured the audience, promising to uphold the rule of law, ensure free and fair elections, and respect the peaceful transfer of power. Harris emphasized her intention to be a practical and realistic leader who listens to the American people and fights for their best interests.
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| Democratic presidential nominee Vice President Kamala Harris at the Democratic National Convention Thursday, Aug. 22, 2024, in Chicago. (AP Photo/Brynn Anderson) |
Harris also acknowledged the rapid and somewhat unexpected nature of her rise to the Democratic nomination. This ascent began when President Joe Biden withdrew from the presidential race in July after mounting pressure from various public figures. Harris quickly launched her campaign, focusing her efforts on key battleground states. Reflecting on this journey, she noted, “America, the path that led me here in recent weeks was no doubt … unexpected,” but added that she is no stranger to “unlikely journeys.”
Throughout her address, Harris took the opportunity to criticize her opponent, Republican candidate Donald Trump. She warned of the dangers of a Trump presidency, urging the audience to consider the consequences of his leadership without "guardrails." Harris argued that Trump has always prioritized his own interests over those of the American people, saying, “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. Not to strengthen our national security. But to serve the only client he has ever had: himself.”
As she concluded her speech, Harris called on Americans to rise to the occasion, invoking the legacy of past generations who fought for freedom and democracy. She reminded the audience that they are “the heirs to the greatest democracy in the history of the world” and urged them to take up the mantle of responsibility. “And on behalf of our children and grandchildren, and all those who sacrificed so dearly for our freedom and liberty, we must be worthy of this moment,” she stated. Harris closed by encouraging Americans to work together to write the next chapter in the nation’s history, guided by optimism and faith in the country they love.