Kamala Harris Urges Action at Essence Fest: "Our Votes Shape Our Future"

NEW ORLEANS – Vice President Kamala Harris delivered a rousing call to action at the Essence Festival of Culture, urging the Black community to make their voices heard in the upcoming fall elections, describing it as "the most significant election of our lifetime."

Addressing a lively and packed audience, Harris warned of the dangers of a potential Donald Trump presidency without naming him directly. "We face a former president who openly admires dictators, promises to rule like one from day one, and plans to weaponize the Department of Justice against his political enemies. He has proudly taken away women's fundamental rights to make decisions about their own bodies," she declared, highlighting the stakes.

Harris detailed the Biden administration's achievements, celebrating efforts to reduce student debt, prevent medical debt from impacting credit scores, cap insulin costs at $35 a month, and lower prescription drug prices.

In a dynamic 25-minute conversation with Essence CEO Caroline Wanga, Harris did not address Biden's recent debate performance or the growing calls for him to step aside. She reaffirmed Biden's commitment to leading the Democratic ticket despite the scrutiny following the debate.

Trump and his allies have intensified their attacks, dubbing Harris the "border czar" and mocking her with nicknames like "Laffin’ Harris." Despite a national approval rating of 37%, Harris narrowly trails Trump in a recent poll, bolstered by strong support from women and independents.

Harris condemned Trump's appointment of Supreme Court justices who overturned Roe v. Wade, leading to severe abortion bans in conservative states like Louisiana. These laws, supported by Gov. Jeff Landry and the Republican-controlled Legislature, are among the strictest, even banning abortions in cases of rape and incest.

Former Democratic Party Chair and Louisiana native Donna Brazile praised Harris's leadership on reproductive rights, gun violence, economic opportunities, and climate crisis management. "The Biden-Harris team has accomplished so much and aims to achieve even more in the next four years," Brazile stated.

Harris and Wanga emphasized the empowerment of Black women, noting the significantly higher maternal mortality rate among Black women. Harris also connected with local leaders, including New Orleans City Council President Helena Moreno, U.S. Rep. Troy Carter, Louisiana Democratic Party Chair Randal Gaines, and former New Orleans Mayor Marc Morial.

"She was in great spirits and ready to continue the fight for a second term," Moreno said.

Harris greeted fans at the Caesars Superdome concert and addressed the convention center audience, celebrating the richness of Black culture. Before leaving New Orleans, she made sure to pick up local favorites like tasso and andouille sausage to bring back to Washington, D.C.

Her message resonated: "Our votes are our power. Let’s make sure they are heard loud and clear."