Harris Condemns Trump’s ‘Wholesale Abandonment’ of American Ideals in Powerful Post-Election Address

SAN FRANCISCO (AP) — Former Vice President Kamala Harris delivered a powerful speech on Wednesday, critiquing President Donald Trump. Speculation about her political future continues, as she might run for either president again or the California governorship.

In her first major address since leaving office in January, Harris expressed admiration for Americans standing up against Trump’s actions, despite challenges to their freedoms. “Instead of promoting America’s ideals, we see a disregard for them,” she remarked, just after Trump marked his 100 days in office.

Until now, Harris had seldom mentioned Trump directly since conceding the race last November. In her 15-minute speech, she addressed the uncertainty felt by many supporters but urged them not to lose hope. “Fear is contagious, but so is courage,” she emphasized.

On the eve of her speech, Trump targeted Harris in a campaign-style rally, mocking her as a “great border czar” and a “great candidate.” He stated that he had little knowledge of her before she became the Democratic vice-presidential candidate.

Harris argued that Trump’s administration shouldn’t be seen as just chaotic. Instead, she described it as a “high-velocity event,” emphasizing that it reflects years of planning on the right. “There is an agenda to cut public education and privatize government services while offering tax breaks to the wealthiest,” she warned.

Her speech took place at Emerge America’s 20th anniversary gala, an organization that encourages Democratic women to pursue political office. This event was particularly significant for her as it reflects her roots in the political landscape.

As she actively steps back into public life, Democrats are searching for guidance after losing Congress in the last elections. Harris holds a unique position in the party as various influential figures look for paths to leadership.

Throughout her speech, she recognized fellow Democrats who boldly challenge Trump, including a diverse group of lawmakers such as Senators Cory Booker and Bernie Sanders. However, she refrained from taking a definitive stance on the party’s key issues, stating, “I’m not here to provide all the answers, but to remind you that we’re all in this together.”

She cautioned that the political climate may worsen before it improves. “The people’s voice is the essential check and balance,” she asserted.

Harris, a former U.S. senator and state attorney general, hasn’t dismissed the idea of running for office again. While she didn’t discuss her future plans in detail, her fundraising efforts continue. The Harris Victory Fund reports having about $4.5 million in its coffers, as of March.

In her recent fundraising emails, Harris has been frank about the necessity for Democratic unity heading into the 2026 midterms. She urged her fellow Democrats to “unite and halt Trump’s agenda while electing Democrats at all levels.”

This event represented a return to her political origins, as Harris hails from the Bay Area and has deep ties to San Francisco. Lisa Gotbhi, a local healthcare executive, stated, “Harris’ loss was surprising, but we need her voice and leadership. It’s time to re-engage in the fight.”

As the political landscape shifts, Harris’s insights and potential candidacy could play a pivotal role in shaping the future of the Democratic Party.

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