US Vice President Kamala Harris formally accepted the Democratic presidential nomination on Thursday evening, pledging to be a "president of all Americans." In her speech on the final night of the 2024 Democratic National Convention (DNC) in Chicago, Illinois, Harris declared, "I will be a president who unites us around our highest aspirations." She emphasized her commitment to leading with common sense and a focus on the American people, stating, "From the courthouse to the White House, that has always been my life's work." Harris highlighted the significance of the upcoming November presidential elections, calling them "one of the most important in the life of our nation." During her address, Harris took aim at her Republican rival, Donald Trump, labeling him an "unserious man" and warning of the grave consequences of his potential return to the White House. She referenced the Jan. 6, 2021, US Capitol riot, saying, "Donald Trump tried to throw away your votes. When he failed, he sent an armed mob to the United States Capitol, where they assaulted law enforcement officers." Harris also criticized Trump's stance on abortion and the Supreme Court's overturning of Roe v. Wade, sharing stories of women who have suffered due to restrictive laws and asserting that "too many women in the US are not able to make their own decisions about their own lives." On foreign policy, Harris reaffirmed her support for Israel, stating, "I will always stand up for Israel's right to defend itself," while also expressing concern over the suffering in Gaza. She emphasized that she and President Joe Biden are "working around the clock" to secure a cease-fire and hostage deal, and to end the conflict in a way that ensures Israel's security and addresses the humanitarian crisis in Gaza. Harris concluded by underscoring the importance of maintaining America's military strength and commitment to its allies, contrasting her approach with Trump's, whom she accused of "threatening to abandon NATO." — Agencies
