Democratic presidential candidate Kamala Harris delivered what was framed as her “closing argument” ahead of the November 5 election, addressing voters from the Ellipse, a park situated just south of the White House in Washington, D.C.
The location carried significant symbolism. Nearly four years earlier, on January 6, 2021, it was the site of a speech by then-President Donald Trump, which incited a violent attack on the United States Capitol. Speaking to a large crowd on Tuesday, Harris made it clear that her administration would stand in contrast to the division she associated with Trump’s actions.
“Tonight, I will speak to everyone about the choice and the stakes in this election,” Harris said. “We know who Donald Trump is. He is the person who stood at this very spot nearly four years ago and sent an armed mob to the United States Capitol to overturn the will of the people in a free and fair election.”
With only a week remaining before Election Day, Harris spoke on the broader themes of unity and stability in her speech, portraying the election as a pivotal moment for the nation.
“It is a choice about whether we have a country rooted in freedom for every American or ruled by chaos or division,” she said.
The race remains closely contested, with polls showing Harris and Trump running neck and neck both nationally and in key swing states. Over 50 million voters have already cast their ballots, making the outcome uncertain.
There was a mix of optimism and anxiety among the crowd of Harris’s supporters. “We’re one week out, but I always say, ‘All hands on deck,’” said Lauanna Lison, a 60-year-old military retiree. Lison expressed excitement about the prospect of Harris becoming the first woman president, noting the positive atmosphere at the rally.
Similarly, Luci Garza, a 19-year-old student from Texas, described the election as a source of anxiety, particularly on issues like immigration and abortion rights. However, she was encouraged by the energy at the event, saying, “It’s nice to see there are people who do care and do show up.”
During her speech, Harris reiterated her policy priorities, which have been a central focus of her campaign. She outlined an economic agenda aimed at strengthening the middle class, with measures including a ban on price gouging, support for the housing market, and financial assistance for new parents. Additionally, Harris pledged to protect the Affordable Care Act and expand Medicare to cover home care services. On the issue of abortion rights, she promised to sign federal legislation protecting access if it came to her desk.
Throughout the rally, Harris frequently returned to sharp criticisms of Trump, whom she described as “unstable, obsessed with revenge, consumed with grievance, and out for unchecked power.” She urged voters to reject Trump’s divisive rhetoric and to embrace a message of national unity.
Supporters like Jason Vaughn, a nurse practitioner from North Carolina, expressed hope that Harris’s appeal for unity would resonate with undecided voters. Vaughn contrasted the positive energy of the rally with a recent Trump event in New York, which had drawn controversy. He said the Harris rally represented “fellowship, people coming together,” adding, “I think she’s got the momentum right now.”
Despite the enthusiasm at the event, the rally also highlighted some of Harris’s political challenges. A pro-Palestine protest was audible from the street, underscoring dissent over Harris’s support for Israel amidst ongoing conflicts in Gaza and Lebanon. Harris’s stance on military aid to Israel has sparked criticism from some Arab, Muslim, and progressive groups, potentially threatening her support in key states like Michigan.
Sumaiya Hamdami, a 62-year-old professor from Maryland, expressed reluctance about voting for Harris, citing the candidate’s refusal to commit to stopping arms shipments to Israel. “Obviously, I have a lot of reservations,” Hamdami said, adding that she viewed Trump as a worse alternative.
Harris concluded her speech by promising a presidency focused on transparency, compromise, and unity. “I will always listen to you, even if you didn’t vote for me,” she said. “I will always tell the truth, even if it’s difficult to hear. I work every day to build consensus and reach a compromise to get things done. And if you give me the chance to fight on your behalf, there is nothing in the world that will stand in my way.”
