U.S. Vice President Kamala Harris launched her first campaign rally as the Democratic presidential nominee, following President Joe Biden’s withdrawal from the race on Sunday.
In her 17-minute speech in Wisconsin, Harris aggressively targeted former President Donald Trump’s vulnerabilities, contrasting her background as a prosecutor with Trump’s criminal record. She outlined a series of liberal priorities, including expanding abortion access, facilitating union membership, and addressing gun violence.
In the rally at West Allis Central High School that drew thousands, Harris energized the crowd, highlighting for voters two different visions, one of "a country of freedom, compassion, and rule of law" and one of "chaos, fear, and hatred" by Trump. The Vice President's dynamic presence underscores Democratic hopes that the 59-year-old can revitalize the campaign, presenting a stark choice to the voters.
Harris is strongly committed to reproductive rights, an issue that has troubled Republicans since the Supreme Court 2022 decision to overturn national abortion protections. A recent Reuters/Ipsos poll showed Harris with a slight lead over Trump, 44% to 42%, following Biden’s endorsement of her as his successor.
Trump and his allies are attempting to link Harris to some of Biden’s unpopular policies, particularly the handling of the migrant surge at the southern border. Trump expressed confidence in defeating Harris, pointing to her early exit from the 2020 presidential race. He has repeatedly called for debates with Harris. After the first Biden-Trump debate in June, the two had been scheduled for a rematch on September 10.