U.S. Vice-President Kamala Harris made her first public appearance today since President Joe Biden announced his decision not to seek re-election in 2024. The event, held at the White House, celebrated National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) championship teams.
Harris opened her speech by updating the audience on President Biden’s health, noting that he is recovering well from COVID-19 and looks forward to resuming his duties soon. She expressed Biden’s regret for not being able to attend the event in person.
In her remarks, Harris emphasized Biden’s remarkable achievements over his term in office. “Joe Biden’s legacy of accomplishment over the past three years is unmatched in modern history,” she declared. Harris recounted her personal connection to Biden through his late son, Beau Biden, sharing anecdotes that highlighted Biden’s honesty, integrity, and dedication to his family and faith. “The qualities that Beau revered in his father are the same qualities that I have seen every day in our President,” Harris noted.
Expressing deep gratitude for Biden’s service, Harris commended his relentless commitment to the American people. “Every day, our President Joe Biden fights for the American people, and we are deeply, deeply grateful for his service to our nation,” she said, drawing applause from the audience.
Harris shifted focus to the accomplishments of the student-athletes present, celebrating their hard work and perseverance. She encouraged the athletes to continue striving for excellence. “Wherever you all go from here, you will always be champions, and we will always be so proud of you,” she said. She concluded her address by introducing Jordan Dudley from the Florida State University women’s soccer team and the U20 Women’s National Team, inviting her to the stage.
Harris’s speech comes on the heels of President Biden’s announcement that he will not seek re-election in 2024, instead endorsing Harris as the Democratic Party’s nominee. This endorsement marks a significant moment in Harris’s political career as she prepares to lead the party in the upcoming election.
The event was closely watched by political analysts and the media, given its significance in the current political landscape. Harris’s composed and heartfelt address was seen as an opportunity to solidify her leadership position and reassure the public of her readiness to step into a larger role.
As she steps into the spotlight, Harris’s leadership and vision will be critical in guiding the Democratic Party and addressing the nation’s challenges in the lead-up to the 2024 election.