On October 29, 2024, Vice President Kamala Harris delivered a pivotal speech at the Ellipse in Washington, D.C., addressing an estimated crowd of over 75,000 supporters.
This event marked her final appeal to voters ahead of the November 5 presidential election. Standing near the White House, Harris emphasized a vision of unity and progress, contrasting her approach with that of former President Donald Trump. She stated, “I will always listen to you, even if you don’t vote for me. I will always tell you the truth, even if it’s hard to hear.” Harris criticized Trump’s divisive tactics, referring to him as a “petty tyrant” and urging Americans to reject his efforts to sow division and fear.
The choice of the Ellipse as the venue was symbolic, as it was the site of Trump’s rally preceding the January 6, 2021, Capitol attack. Harris highlighted this connection, reminding voters of Trump’s role in the chaos of that day.
Harris also outlined her policy priorities, including protecting abortion rights, reducing living costs, and expanding Medicare. She pledged to work across party lines, stating, “I will work every day to build consensus and reach compromise to get things done.”