CHICAGO — The Harris-Walz campaign released excerpts of Vice President Kamala Harris’ nomination acceptance speech ahead of her address to the Democratic National Convention in Chicago on Thursday night:
“America, the path that led me here in recent weeks was no doubt unexpected. But I’m no stranger to unlikely journeys.
“My mother Shyamala Harris had one of her own. I miss her every day - especially now. And I know she’s looking down tonight, and smiling.
“My mother was 19 when she crossed the world alone, traveling from India to California with an unshakeable dream to be the scientist who would cure breast cancer.
“It was mostly my mother who raised us. Before she could finally afford to buy a home, she rented a small apartment in the East Bay. In the Bay, you either live in the hills or the flatlands. We lived in the flats - a beautiful working-class neighborhood of firefighters, nurses, and construction workers, all who tended their lawns with pride.
“When I was in high school, I started to notice something about my best friend Wanda. She was sad at school. And there were times she didn’t want to go home.
“So, one day, I asked if everything was alright. And she confided in me that she was being sexually abused by her step-father. And I immediately told her she had to come stay with us. And she did.
“That is one of the reasons I became a prosecutor. To protect people like Wanda.
…
“With this election, our nation has a precious, fleeting opportunity to move past the bitterness, cynicism, and divisive battles of the past. A chance to chart a New Way Forward. Not as members of any one party or faction, but as Americans.
“I know there are people of various political views watching tonight. And I want you to know: I promise to be a president for all Americans. …
“I will be a president who unites us around our highest aspirations. A president who leads — and listens. Who is realistic. Practical. And has common sense. And always fights for the American people. From the courthouse to the White House, that has been my life’s work.
…
“We know what a second Trump term would look like. It’s all laid out in ’Project 2025.’ … In many ways, Donald Trump is an unserious man. But the consequences of putting Donald Trump back in the White House are extremely serious … Consider the power he will have — especially after the United States Supreme Court just ruled he would be immune from criminal prosecution.
…
“We know a strong middle class has always been critical to America’s success. And building that middle class will be a defining goal of my presidency. This is personal for me. The middle class is where I come from.
…
“Fellow Americans, I love our country with all my heart. Everywhere I go —in everyone I meet—I see a nation ready to move forward. Ready for the next step, in the incredible journey that is America.
“I see an America where we hold fast to the fearless belief that built our nation. That inspired the world. That here, in this country, anything is possible. Nothing is out of reach.”
• Staff can be reached at 202-636-3000.
Please read our comment policy before commenting.