Kamala Harris, in her first appearance as the presumptive Democratic presidential nominee, launched a scathing attack on her opponent, Donald Trump, referencing her dual moral advantage as a former prosecutor and an advocate for victims of sexism.
Harris emphasised Trump’s conviction for a series of serious crimes, including the sexual assault of journalist and author Elizabeth Jean Carroll, while highlighting her own lengthy tenure as California’s chief prosecutor.
Soon after her speech, it was revealed by US media outlets that Harris had secured the required number of delegates to officially become the Democratic nominee for the November elections.
The chair of the Democratic National Committee (DNC), Jamie Harrison, stated that the party intends to finalise its presidential nominee by August 7, assuring a “fair” and “open” process.
In her speech in Delaware, Harris indirectly referenced her moral high ground, knowing that she has no ethical blemishes and can inherently empathise with victims of Trump’s sexism.
She drew a clear contrast between herself and Trump, a man of “old-school” attitudes, against whom numerous allegations of sexual misconduct have been made over the years.
Harris also pointed out the legal and financial controversies surrounding Trump, such as his recent conviction for 34 offences related to the Stormy Daniels affair, where he attempted to buy her silence regarding their inappropriate relationship. Additionally, Trump faces at least three other serious charges, including conspiracy and interference with election results.
Harris’s speech signalled the unofficial start of her presidential campaign, even before officially receiving the Democratic nomination. She focused on Trump’s checkered past and her own strengths, such as her commitment to social justice and her plans to address class inequalities and strengthen the social safety net. (in cyprus)
