Kamala Harris Rebukes Trump's Remarks at Black Journalists Event
Vice President Kamala Harris addressed members of Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority Inc. at their 60th International Biennial Boulé in Houston on Wednesday, responding to comments made by former President Donald Trump. Trump had suggested that Harris "became a black person" for political purposes, a statement she described as part of his "same old show."
Harris, the first woman and first Black and South Asian Vice President of the United States, criticized Trump for his divisive rhetoric and lack of respect. "The American people deserve better," Harris said. "We need leaders who tell the truth, who don't react with hostility when confronted with facts, and who recognize that our diversity is a source of strength."
Trump, 78, speaking earlier at the National Association for Black Journalists convention, claimed he only recently learned of Harris's Black heritage, despite her longstanding identification with both her Jamaican father and Indian mother. He questioned whether she was trying to present herself as Black, adding, "She became a black person and I think somebody should look into that."
Harris's speech emphasized the importance of leadership that unites rather than divides. She also addressed the ongoing political battle over reproductive rights, vowing to protect them against any attempts to pass a nationwide abortion ban, which she accused Trump and his "handpicked" Supreme Court appointees of pursuing.
The event in Houston also included a campaign fundraiser for the Harris Victory Fund, reportedly raising $2.5 million. Harris is set to deliver a eulogy for the late Rep. Sheila Jackson Lee (D-Texas) on Thursday.
