While reflecting on her Election Day defeat to President-elect Trump, Vice President Harris aimed to instill hope among her supporters, urging them to retain their “power” despite the outcome. In a video shared by the Democratic Party on X, Harris emphasized the resilience of their influence and purpose.
Her message included a reminder to her audience not to let external factors diminish their strength. “You have the same power, the same purpose, and the same ability to inspire as you did before Nov. 5,” she said. “Don’t allow any situation to strip you of that power.”
The video was part of Harris’s address to the Democratic Party’s financial committee, where she and running mate Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz discussed the campaign’s efforts despite scrutiny over its expenditures. Harris extended gratitude to the campaign’s top donors for their contributions, acknowledging their crucial role despite the disappointing results.
Harris reflected on the accomplishments of the campaign, highlighting the unprecedented coalition built during its 107-day run and the nearly $1.5 billion raised from approximately 8 million donors, with an average contribution of $56. She expressed pride in the groundwork laid by the team and its lasting impact, even though the election didn’t yield the desired results.
Following her concession speech at Howard University, Harris reiterated her commitment to the peaceful transfer of power while urging her supporters to remain engaged. She encouraged them to approach this moment with optimism and determination, likening their collective spirit to a sky illuminated by countless stars.
Members of Harris’s campaign team later shared insights on the “Pod Save America” podcast, where senior adviser Stephanie Cutter defended the vice president’s refusal to publicly distance herself from President Biden. Cutter explained this decision stemmed from Harris’s desire to uphold the integrity of the office, avoiding precedent-setting conflicts.
Campaign Chair Jen O’Malley Dillon also pushed back against claims that Harris avoided media engagement, calling the accusations unfounded. She acknowledged limited time to connect with targeted audiences but rejected the narrative that the campaign shied away from public interaction.
Harris formally conceded to Trump in her address from Howard University. The election’s outcome, coupled with Democratic losses in Congress, has prompted internal discussions among party members about their struggles and strategies for future success.