HARRIS APPLAUDED FOR CONFIDENCE; OUTLINES HER OPPORTUNITY ECONOMY PROGRAM

A VIEW OF THE CHICAGO DEMOCRATIC PARTY CONVENTION


HARRIS APPLAUDED FOR CONFIDENCE; OUTLINES HER OPPORTUNITY ECONOMY PROGRAM

by Nicholas Thompson

Most of the time, the acceptance speeches of presidential candidates are well-prepared and good. Kamala Harris' acceptance speech as the Democratic Party nominee for the U.S. presidency fits this category. But it has a class of its own.

It was delivered gracefully and easily, although it was formulated within a month after President Biden stepped down as the party's nominee. Her ability to articulate wide-ranging policy proposals within a limited time was the most memorable moment of the Chicago convention. The delegates enjoyed every minute of it and applauded her overwhelmingly.

Forward-looking, Harris spoke before cheering thousands of convention delegates as the party's first Black and Asian presidential nominee. She recounted her upbringing with joy by her parents, a mother from India and a father from Jamaica. The two had met at an event of the civil rights movement that focused on equality, freedom, and self-determination.

She hit strongly on these themes when she talked about the brutal ongoing Middle East war in Gaza. She pledged full support for Israel and deplored Hamas's attack on Israel last December. However, noting the devastating suffering in Gaza, Harris declared, "At the same time, we will take up the case of the Palestinians for dignity, freedom, and self-determination."

It's time for deals for a ceasefire and hostage release, she contended, adding that the President (Biden) and herself were working hard on this. A balanced U.S. approach to the Middle East problem could be expected when she is elected president.

On the world scene at large, Harris would strengthen U.S. global leadership and safeguard American values. Harris helped organize a 50-nation alliance against Russia's invasion of Ukraine. She promised to continue to stand by Ukraine and our NATO allies, noting that her opponent, Republican ex-President Donald Trump plans to leave NATO. Under Harris' presidency, the U.S. will be more involved in world affairs.

On the home front, Harris outlined her Opportunity Economy program to create jobs and provide capital access for small businesses. Uplifing the middle class, she said, would be the defining goal of her presidency. She would work to maintain Social Security, and Medicare, and stand against elder abuse. Politically, she would sign a law guaranteeing full voting rights.

If elected president, her success will hinge on continuing to treat all equally, respecting the community, and living by faith. Perhaps, she would teach the country to "do something" when something is wrong - the hallmark of a tough attorney and a good politician. Having proved herself, won't America give her a chance as president?

Nicholas Thompson, a freelance writer, holds degrees in political science, journalism, and theology.

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