'I feel hope,' Thousands attend Kamala Harris's closing arguments for presidential campaign in DC
Oct 30, 2024
WASHINGTON (DC News Now) -- Thousands gathered for Vice President Kamala Harris's speech at the Ellipse in Washington, D.C., on Tuesday night, and some said they felt a sense of "hope."
“The energy was off the charts. It was awesome. Just really a wonderful crowd," said attendee Michelle Rohrer.
Rohrer was one of 75,000 people who went to the Ellipse to hear Harris speak on why she believes she should be the next president.
Harris stood in the same spot Donald Trump stood as he gave his speech just before the Jan. 6. insurrection in 2021.
“Just her joy, her energy, her commitment to service of all of us. She's had a life long career, and it's just an amazing opportunity that we all have to have this amazing woman as our president," Rohrer said.
On Sunday, Trump spoke to thousands of voters at Madison Square Garden in New York. Some people who also attended Harris's event in D.C. on Tuesday said they noticed a difference in the atmosphere.
"I was in New York outside of Madison Square Garden just 48 hours ago, and the difference between the two was quite significant. I thought there was a lot less tension in the air here," said Nick, another attendee.
At least 40K expected to attend Kamala Harris speech at Ellipse in DC, according to approved permit
During Harris's speech, she vowed to put the country over party and said that Donald Trump was obsessed with revenge and his own personal interest.
“Donald trump would walk into that office with an enemies list. When elected, I will walk in with a to-do list," she said.
She also spoke about focusing on the working class, her goals to tackle price gouging for groceries, the fight for affordable child care, easier access to home health care for seniors and more.
“I will work with everyone, Democrats, Republicans, and Independents to help Americans who are working hard and still struggling to get ahead," said Harris.
Polls are still open as early voting continues ahead of Election Day, which is set for Tuesday Nov. 5. For more information on voting, check out the DC News Now Voting Guide for DC, Maryland and Virginia.