In a high-stakes address at the Ellipse, Vice President Kamala Harris is set to make her closing case to voters, emphasizing unity and drawing a clear contrast with former President Donald Trump. The speech comes just a week before Election Day, staged in a location deeply symbolic for both Harris and Trump—near the White House and the site where Trump encouraged his supporters to march to the Capitol on January 6, 2021. Harris’s campaign hopes this speech will not only serve as a critique of Trump’s approach but also underscore her vision for a more inclusive and constructive leadership.
Symbolic Setting: A Message from the Ellipse
In selecting the Ellipse, Harris’s team has chosen a backdrop loaded with historical weight. Within sight of the White House, this setting directly references the events of January 6, where Trump spoke before the Capitol breach. Harris’s team sees this as an ideal stage to underscore her commitment to democracy and order while contrasting with Trump’s “chaotic and divisive” approach, as her campaign chair Jennifer O’Malley Dillon described.
“The Ellipse reminds us of what’s at stake,” said O’Malley Dillon. “It’s a place where, not so long ago, America saw a stark demonstration of leadership that prioritized self-interest over democracy. Kamala Harris offers a clear departure from that legacy.”
Addressing the ‘Conflicted Voters’
Harris’s speech targets a specific audience her campaign dubs “conflicted voters”—those troubled by Trump’s conduct but uncertain about Harris’s capacity for change. Advisers describe the speech as one of Harris’s last big opportunities to appeal directly to these voters, making the case that she can provide stability and progress, especially on issues like reproductive rights and the economy.
“We don’t just want voters to reject Trump’s brand of politics,” said a Harris campaign official. “We want them to see the hope and solutions that Kamala Harris can bring.”
Themes of Unity and Opportunity
While the setting may invoke the events of January 6, Harris’s speech will focus on themes of unity and economic opportunity, emphasizing what her team calls an “opportunity economy.” Rather than dwelling solely on Trump’s past actions, the vice president aims to present a forward-looking vision, with promises to strengthen the middle class, protect reproductive rights, and make healthcare more affordable.
“This speech is about what kind of future Americans want,” a campaign source said. “Kamala will emphasize that America deserves leaders focused on progress and real solutions—not grievances.”
Contrast with Trump’s Recent Rally and Rising Tensions
The timing of Harris’s speech also aligns with recent controversies surrounding Trump’s campaign, including offensive remarks about Puerto Rico at a Madison Square Garden rally. Trump’s speech there, marked by what critics describe as divisive and incendiary rhetoric, stands in contrast to Harris’s message of unity. Harris is expected to underscore this difference, positioning herself as the candidate focused on inclusive solutions over personal vendettas.
“I’m offering a pledge to seek common ground and bring people together,” Harris will say, according to prepared remarks. “Where Trump sees enemies, I see opportunities to build a stronger, more united America.”
Mobilizing Support at a Historic Moment
The event is expected to draw tens of thousands, marking one of the largest turnouts of Harris’s campaign. Many attendees, including prominent figures like Jennifer Lopez and Barbara Pierce Bush, have joined to support Harris’s historic run as the potential first female president. The campaign hopes this powerful visual—a diverse crowd gathered at the Ellipse, with the White House in view—will resonate deeply with voters.
Balancing Policy and Contrast
While Harris’s team has focused on promoting her policy agenda, some Democrats have voiced concern over her emphasis on attacking Trump. Harris’s advisers acknowledge the challenge, aiming to strike a balance between addressing Trump’s character and her own vision for America’s future.
“We can’t ignore Trump’s threat to our democracy,” one adviser said. “But this speech will be more than a rebuttal—it will be a reminder that Kamala Harris has the ideas and the resolve to move the country forward.”
As Election Day nears, Harris’s speech on the Ellipse will serve as both a critique of her opponent and a hopeful blueprint for what she intends to achieve. In the shadow of the White House, she aims to project leadership that can heal and unify, contrasting sharply with her opponent’s recent rallies. For Harris, this moment is not just about campaigning but defining her vision of America’s future.
