Vice President Kamala Harris, who has made history as the first female vice president and the first woman of color to be on a major party ticket, secured the Democratic presidential nomination. Her nomination follows a turbulent period within the Democratic Party, highlighted by President Joe Biden’s poor performance in a June debate, which led to his withdrawal from the race.
Harris quickly garnered the necessary delegate support, achieving the milestone within 32 hours of Biden’s announcement, culminating in a formal roll call vote.
Following a five-day online balloting process, the Democratic National Convention delegates confirmed Harris’ nomination, with 99% of delegates casting their ballots in her favor. The early virtual roll call was planned to ensure Biden’s appearance on every state ballot.
A celebratory roll call is scheduled for the party’s convention in Chicago later this month. Polls reveal a divided public opinion on Harris, though more Democrats express satisfaction with her candidacy compared to Biden, injecting new energy into the party.
Kamala Harris
Harris aims to continue Biden’s campaign themes, such as democracy, gun violence prevention, and abortion rights, but with a more forceful delivery. Leveraging her prosecutorial background, she has been vocal against Trump and his legal issues.
Democratic Sen. Alex Padilla of California highlighted Harris’ unique qualifications, emphasizing her role as a new-generation leader and a former prosecutor, particularly in defending reproductive rights.
Harris’ early life and career shaped her political journey. Born to immigrant parents in Oakland, California, she pursued a career in law enforcement, becoming California’s attorney general in 2010 and a U.S. senator in 2016.
As a senator, she emerged as a prominent critic of the Trump administration, gaining national attention through her position on the Judiciary Committee. Her initial presidential campaign in 2020, though promising, ended early due to internal issues and financial constraints.
Despite her campaign challenges, Harris remained a top contender for Biden’s vice-presidential pick, partly due to her close ties with his late son Beau.
Her vice presidency has had its hurdles, including Republican criticism over her handling of Central American diplomatic efforts and her visibility issues due to Senate duties. However, she gained prominence as the administration’s spokesperson on abortion rights following the Supreme Court’s decision to overturn Roe v. Wade.
As Harris transitions to her presidential campaign, she enjoys a surge in enthusiasm and support within the Democratic base. Her campaign is optimistic about competing in swing states, which Biden had begun to abandon.
Nevertheless, Harris faces impending scrutiny regarding the Biden administration’s policies, economic conditions, and global issues. The Trump campaign has already launched attacks, focusing on her record and identity. Despite this, Harris remains committed to presenting a vision of leadership grounded in truth and unity.
