Harris calls for unity, warns of 'grievance-driven' Trump presidency

In Washington, Kamala cautioned thousands, emphasising Trump’s instability and appealing for unity before Election Day

WASHINGTON:

At a rally in Washington, Democrat Kamala Harris cautioned tens of thousands of supporters about her Republican rival, Donald Trump, claiming he seeks unrestrained power as their close race for the presidency approaches its conclusion.

Speaking to over 75,000 attendees, according to her campaign’s estimates, near the White House — where, on 6 January 2021, Trump had previously addressed his supporters before they attacked the US Capitol — Harris described Trump as “unstable, obsessed with revenge, consumed with grievance, and out for unchecked power.”

Her remarks, part of her final campaign push before the closely contested election on 5 November, followed record early voting figures of more than 53 million ballots cast.

Surrounded by banners reading “FREEDOM” and flanked by American flags, Harris addressed a diverse crowd comprising older adults, students, and attendees from various states and countries.

Supporters, like former federal employee Saul Schwartz from Virginia, voiced their hope to prevent a return to what they described as “the horrible past policies under President Trump.” Danielle Hoffmann, a supporter from Staten Island, praised Harris, calling her “joyous, real, powerful,” and remarked that “it’s time” for women to lead.

A Reuters/Ipsos poll indicated Harris’s lead over Trump had narrowed to a slim 44% to 43% margin. Despite consistently polling ahead of Trump since joining the race in July, Harris has seen her lead diminish steadily since late September.

Meanwhile, Trump and his supporters have downplayed the significance of the January 6th violence, with Trump previously pledging to pardon over 1,500 individuals involved in the Capitol riot if reelected.

Earlier that day, Trump had campaigned in Florida, referring to his recent New York rally, which had stirred controversy due to offensive remarks made by speakers.

Although his campaign condemned the comments as not reflecting Trump’s views, Trump later described the rally as “an absolute lovefest.” In response, President Joe Biden denounced the remarks, characterising Trump’s rhetoric towards Latinos as “un-American.”

While Harris campaigned in Washington, Trump travelled to Pennsylvania, addressing the state’s substantial Hispanic population and criticising the US trade imbalance with the European Union.

Highlighting the differences between Harris, who would be the first female US president, and Trump, a former president seeking another term, the campaign has underscored contrasts on major issues such as abortion, NATO, democratic principles, and tariffs.