Vice President Kamala Harris, the Democratic presidential nominee, ignited a crowd of supporters in Michigan on Monday with a passionate speech urging them to embrace a transformative vision for the future. Speaking at Burns Park, surrounded by enthusiastic supporters, many from the nearby University of Michigan, Harris delivered a powerful message centered around the need to address pressing issues facing the nation, including climate change, school safety, and reproductive rights.
Harris didn’t shy away from condemning the divisive politics of the past, framing her campaign as an opportunity for the country to “turn the page and chart a new and joyful way forward.” She declared, “We are fighting for the future,” acknowledging the challenges posed by a political landscape marred by fear and division during Donald Trump’s presidency.
Recognizing the frustration felt by younger generations, Harris directly addressed them, acknowledging their impatience for change. “You are impatient for change because you have only known the climate crisis, and you are leading the charge to protect our planet and our future,” she stated, recognizing the power of their activism. Harris also acknowledged the deeply personal impact of contemporary issues, particularly gun violence in schools, connecting with the young Americans in the crowd. “You grew up with active shooter drills and are fighting to keep our schools safe,” she remarked.
Harris framed the fight for freedom and rights as a generational responsibility, calling on young voters to carry forward the legacy of those who fought for them. “Generations of Americans before us fought for freedom, and now the baton is in our hands,” she emphasized. “You, young leaders…I see you, and I see your power.”
Turning her attention to her political rival, former President Donald Trump, Harris criticized his response to the overturning of Roe v. Wade, accusing him of failing to acknowledge the “pain and suffering” caused by this decision. “He insists that quote, everyone wanted for Roe v. Wade to be overturned. Everyone wanted this?” Harris highlighted the dire consequences of the ruling, pointing out that women are being denied care during miscarriages and are only receiving treatment after developing serious conditions like sepsis. “The men of America are seeing their daughters and wives and sisters and mothers put at risk because their rights have been taken from them,” she stated emphatically. “The men of America don’t want this.”
Harris urged Michiganders to make their voices heard in the upcoming election, framing the choice as a stark contrast between her leadership and Trump’s potential return to power. “Imagine the Oval Office in three months. So either it’s Donald Trump sitting in there, stewing over his enemies list, or me with your help, working for you, checking off my to-do list,” she said.
The event also featured an introduction by Minnesota Governor Tim Walz, who used his charm to rally the crowd. Walz painted a vivid picture of the future, urging attendees to reflect on their actions in 2024. “When you are old and grey like me… and your grandchildren ask you, ‘What did you do in 2024 to save democracy?’” he said, “you are going to be able to tell them every damn thing you could, every damn thing.”
