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Kamala Harris Delivers Powerful DNC Acceptance Speech, Proving She’s More Than Just a Historic Prime Minister — She’s a Leader Ready to Lead – Essence

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2 months ago

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Photo: CHARLY TRIBALLEAU/AFP via Getty Images

CHICAGO, Illinois — Vice President Kamala Harris made history Thursday night by formally accepting the Democratic Party’s nomination for president of the United States. The moment was monumental because Harris is the primary Black and South Asian woman to head a major party ticket.

Speaking with the burden of that legacy, Harris forged the upcoming election as a rare and pivotal opportunity for the nation to “forge a new path forward,” urging voters to seize the moment to write “the next great chapter in the most extraordinary story ever told” — a story that now includes her own groundbreaking candidacy.

Harris’ formal acceptance of her party’s nomination for president of the United States was a highly anticipated highlight of the 2024 Democratic National Convention. Entering the convention in a close race — perhaps with a narrow lead — Harris faces some challenges. Many undecided voters remain undecided about her, fearing she is perhaps too liberal. Her speech addressed those concerns and solidified her position as a unifying and pragmatic leader.

“Throughout my career, I have had only one client: the people. And so, on behalf of the people, on behalf of every American, regardless of party, race, gender or what language your grandmother speaks, on behalf of my mother and everyone who has ever set out on their own incredible journey, on behalf of Americans like the people I grew up with, people who work hard and chase their dreams and take care of each other, on behalf of everyone whose story could only be written in the greatest country on earth, I accept your nomination for president of the United States of America,” she said.

Harris began by crafting a personal narrative that will resonate with voters across the political spectrum, describing her upbringing because the daughter of immigrant parents, an Indian mother and a Jamaican father, growing up in a working-class neighborhood in California, a story that many discover with and that provided a strong foundation for her.

The purpose of this biographical sketch wasn’t just to connect with voters on a personal level; it was also a strategic move to present himself as someone who understood the struggles of average Americans and had the strength to fight for them.

She then recounted the moment that inspired her to turn into a prosecutor — her best friend confiding in her about sexual harassment at home. Harris said she told her friend to move in along with her family, an experience that was key in shaping her profession and motivating her to protect the vulnerable. She then described her profession as a prosecutor, highlighting her battles with big banks and cartels that traffic drugs, weapons and folks — narratives designed to dispel perceptions of her as too liberal by emphasizing her tough crime-fighting credentials.

“With this election, our nation has a precious, fleeting opportunity to move beyond the bitterness, cynicism, and divisive battles of the past, a chance to forge a new path forward, not as members of a single party or faction, but as Americans,” she said. The vice chairman said the upcoming election is “not only the most important of our lifetimes, it is one of the most important of our nation’s life.”

Much of her speech was devoted to the promise of unity. Harris made clear her commitment to representing all of America, contrasting sharply with former President Donald Trump’s often divisive and partisan approach. “I promise to be a president for all Americans. You can always trust me to put country before party and self, to uphold America’s sacred founding principles, from the rule of law to free and fair elections to the peaceful transition of power,” Harris told convention attendees. “I might be a president who unites us around our highest aspirations.

A president who leads and listens, who’s realistic, practical and has common sense, and at all times fights for the American people. From the courthouse to the White House, this has been my life’s work.”

Though Harris has served as vice chairman for the past three years and was previously a senator from California, she used her speech to reintroduce herself to the American people.

She laid out her economic agenda, which was based on collaboration. “I will bring together workers and employees, small business owners and entrepreneurs, and American companies to create jobs, grow our economy, and lower the costs of everyday necessities like health care, housing, and groceries,” she said.

Harris also pledged to sign laws that will restore federal abortion protections that were struck down by the Supreme Court when it overturned Roe v. Wade in June 2022.

Her attacks on Trump were measured but effective, taking aim at a few of his most outrageous proposals, comparable to raising taxes through tariffs and eliminating the Education Department. These criticisms weren’t nearly political differences; they were intended to portray Trump as out of touch with the needs and desires of the American people.

“In many ways, Donald Trump is a frivolous man,” Harris said. “But the consequences of putting Donald Trump back in the White House are incredibly serious,” she said.

Harris also cited the recent Supreme Court decision that granted former presidents immunity from prosecution for official actions intended to further Trump’s position. Trump faces federal charges in Washington, D.C., for allegedly attempting to undermine the transfer of presidential power after 2020.

“Imagine Donald Trump without any safeguards and how he would use the enormous power of the presidency of the United States — not to improve your lives, not to strengthen our national security — but to serve the only customer he has ever had: himself,” she said.

Harris has proven her foreign policy credentials as a potential commander in chief, a critical task given the lingering skepticism some voters could have about a woman within the role. Previous segments featuring veterans and national security experts like Leon Panetta have bolstered her image as a capable leader on the world stage.

“I recognize how important security is, especially at our border,” she said, noting that the White House had been negotiating with senators, Republicans and Democrats, on a bipartisan immigration deal that Trump torpedoed by announcing his opposition to it earlier this yr.

“I refuse to play politics with our security,” she said, calling for the plan’s revival. “I know we can live up to our proud heritage as a nation of immigrants and reform our broken immigration system. We can create a legitimate path to citizenship and secure our border.”

Her message was direct, measured and assured, a clear evolution from the more uncertain 2019 candidate who struggled to find her footing and ultimately withdrew from the race. Her speech sent a clear signal that she was ready to tackle the challenges ahead with a tenacious and determined attitude.

Harris’ acceptance of the Democratic presidential nomination was a moment steeped in historical significance, strategic calculation, and a keen awareness of the political and cultural landscapes she must navigate. She delivered a thoughtful, finely tuned message to a diverse electorate, making clear that she was in it to win.

This article was originally published on : www.essence.com
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Politics and Current

Donald Trump’s support among black voters is falling significantly

Published

8 hours ago

on

November 5, 2024

By

Trump, Federal Judge, hacked

The final NBC News poll shows a major drop in support for Donald Trump among black voters.

Questionnaire released Sunday revealed an especially tight 2024 presidential campaign race between Democratic Vice President Kamala Harris and Republican candidate former President Donald Trump, with each tied at 49%. However, there are significant differences in support across different voter demographics.

The poll shows Harris has the most important lead over Trump among Black voters (87%-9%), young voters under 30 (57%-41%), and college-educated white voters (55%-43%). Trump’s 9% approval rating among black voters is down from the 12% he received within the 2020 election against Joe Biden.

Other key splits show Harris leading among women by 16 points (57%-41%) and Trump leading among men by 18 points (58%-40%). Harris also has a major 20-point lead over Trump relating to which candidate is seen as higher at handling the abortion issue, and has a bonus relating to which candidate is higher at caring for the center class.

Overall, the poll shows a disagreement between Harris and Trump, with each receiving 49% support from registered voters in a head-to-head matchup, while only 2% of voters remain undecided. Trump holds a slight lead over Harris among white voters and people and not using a college degree, leading by 2 points at 50-48%.

The popularity of Harris and Trump is almost equal: 43% of voters have a positive opinion of Harris and 50% have a negative opinion. For comparison, Trump has 42% positive rankings and 51% negative rankings. When it comes to manage of Congress, 47% of voters prefer Democrats to steer Congress, while 46% favor Republican control.

Because of the nationwide Electoral College system, the end result of the presidential election will ultimately rely on the ends in key battleground states akin to Michigan, Pennsylvania and Wisconsin. Like the ultimate NBC poll, the newest polls from swing states show tight races and uncertainty.

Regardless of the end result of the presidential election, 60% of registered voters consider the United States will remain divided, while only 28% consider it’s going to grow to be more united after the 2024 election.


This article was originally published on : www.blackenterprise.com
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Politics and Current

How Black Women Can Prioritize Wellness This Election Season – Essence

Published

11 hours ago

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November 5, 2024

By

Sydney Shaffer/Getty Images

Election week finally arrived; a day that, not without reason, we greet with double optimism and fear. As we wait for the election results and subsequent reactions, it is vital to concentrate on the wellness and sweetness practices that keep us grounded.

Regardless of the election result, emotions shall be high and will spark social unrest, which could cause significant concern for marginalized groups. As evidenced by past elections and the January 6 revolt, American society often finds itself in a polarized and reactive state. The potential consequence of a Black woman’s election to the presidency raises hope in lots of and outrage in others, prompting some populations to concentrate on caring for themselves and their communities during this time.

Wellness and sweetness routines often go hand in hand and will be effective regulating practices to appease nerves. The ritualistic nature of makeup or skincare routines, mindfulness meditations, and prioritizing nutrition and rest are all ways to nourish yourself during difficult times. The immediate aftermath of results, whether higher or worse, is more likely to trigger emotionally charged experiences.

She tapped ESSENCE Dr. Robin OnwongPh.D., a provisionally licensed psychologist, to grasp how these decisions may impact Black women and what we are able to do to develop healthy habits.

First, it explains the function of the stress hormone, cortisol, and its context. “When cortisol levels are high for an prolonged time period (e.g., from the beginning of voter registration to Election Day to the inauguration), stress begins to build up and creates allostatic load. In other words, it weakens our immune system and increases the chance of mental health problems, heart problems, fatigue, lack of attention, poor nutrition, etc.

“Overall,” she continues, “most black women in the states were already experiencing high allostatic load, and the election season only deepened the collective sense of heaviness.”

“My encouragement, from both a human and clinical standpoint, is to manage the stress before and after the election whenever possible, focus on the fundamentals and stay on top of the controllables. This looks like building on well-being practices that focus on our basic human needs.”

Dr. Onwong’s list of straightforward areas we are able to start relieving stress include: eating nutritious meals and staying adequately hydrated, getting enough quality rest, and exercising. Additionally, she notes that other vital practices include breath work “which draws you into the present moment,” gratitude exercises, clearing your physical space, and being “a more gracious steward of your time on social media.”

It also points to the effectiveness of community, which may give some people a way of hope and security. In addition to home wellness methods, there are numerous shared spaces where you may seek emotional refuge. Below you can see resources so you may safely connect with others and never feel the necessity to face this stressful day alone.

Sister Song’s Election Party

Sister Song is a reproductive justice collective led by women of color based in Atlanta, Georgia. On November 5, they’re organizing a private “election party” with themes of sharing space, healing, creating artistic endeavors and being in community.

Therapy for black girls on election day. Room for self-care

Therapy for black girls is a web based platform and resource base specializing in the mental health of Black women and girls. On November 5, they’re organizing a virtual Self-care room on election day featuring guided yoga, meditation, journaling sessions and open check-ins. You can find tickets and event information HERE.

Hello Healing Circles

Onwong’s doctor shares: “Association of Black Psychologists offers on November 4, 5, and 6, 2024. These are virtual, protected community spaces for people of African descent that draw on culturally rooted healing strategies to deal with Black trauma/stress and social violence. These are non-clinical (non-therapeutic), culturally supportive and affirming spaces intended to advertise well-being and overall social-emotional adjustment. To express interest, please send an email.

BEAM Holiday break on election day

BEAM, also generally known as the Black Emotional And Mental Health Collective, is a platform dedicated to Black healing. Together with indicated resources to deal with election unrest, they’re organizing three meetings virtual “pause” sessions. throughout election day to have the chance to “pause, take a breath and sort out the situation together.”

Black women’s sisterhood with plans

Black Women’s Agenda is an area dedicated to the well-being of Black women. They offer weekly sisterhood circles emphasizing political education, wellness, and collective care. The next virtual circle will happen on Thursday, November 7.


This article was originally published on : www.essence.com
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Politics and Current

Donald Trump fights during a rally in Georgia while Herschel Walker is called a “real idiot” for telling attendees to vote for the wrong person

Published

17 hours ago

on

November 4, 2024

By

Trump Herschel Walker Georgia rally disaster

Former President Donald Trump delivered a blistering campaign speech in Georgia on Sunday that was supposed to be his final address to undecided voters in the state, but as a substitute became one in all his most rambling tirades since becoming the GOP nominee, prompting a wave of ridicule on social media.

During a speech in Macon, some in the audience appeared to fall asleep as Trump talked about brutal deaths at the hands of immigrants and vented his frustration over what he called 800,000 falsified “cob” reports when he meant “jobs,” while his voice often stuttered with a monotonous tone that failed to excite the crowd.

Herschel Walker's Trump rally disaster in Georgia
Herschel Walker was ridiculed after footage of a Trump rally in Macon, Georgia, surfaced. (Source: Newsmax/Twitter screenshot)

“Dementia Don is going through some stuff,” one X user commentedwhich reflects a wave of criticism about Trump’s mental capability to lead the country.

At one point, Trump mentioned that if he became president again, he would love to put former comebacker Herschel Walker in charge of the nation’s missile defense, though Walker has no prior experience with military strategy or defense systems.

“We will build an all-USA-made anti-missile shield wrapped around our country to defend us and our country,” Trump announced to his cheering supporters. Trump then added, “We’re going to put Herschel Walker in charge of this little sucker” — which drew little applause.

When Walker took the stage, he did himself no favors to prove he was ready for the task, sounding nervous at times and having difficulty pronouncing Trump’s name appropriately.

“Let’s not let Donald Trump down, because he won’t let us down. Because when you see what they are doing to this country. You say it’s a damn shame. And it’s time to stop it. And it will end on Tuesday when we get to the polls and vote for my friend and your friend, Donald Trump Jr.!” Walker stated before realizing his mistake and starting to stutter to correct himself.

However, he repeatedly mispronounced Trump’s name. “Donald Trump, er, Jonald J. Trump!”

Social media has rightly mocked Walker for becoming a caricature or Uncle Tom-like figure in the Trump campaign, and his appearance has only reinforced doubts about his readiness to tackle a major role in the next Trump administration.

“I’m insulted by you. “Herschel Walker embodies every negative stereotype that black Americans have fought against for decades: violence, crime, intellectual inferiority and sexual promiscuity” – one person he wrote further X. “Republicans admit it’s just a symbol so they can claim they’re not racist.”

Other in addition, “Herschel Walker is as real an idiot as Republicans think Kamala is.”

A podcast video featuring Karlous Miller, DC Young Fly and Chico Bean, who mocked Herschel Walker’s 2022 GOP Senate campaign, has resurfaced on social media platforms after he suggested creating a “department that may look into young men women social media” in response to the mass shooting at an elementary school in Uvalde, Texas.

“Herschel Walker played football when helmets were soft” – one in all the panelists he joked at the time, drawing raucous laughter from the studio audience.

Throughout the day at

“That guy in the gold hat looks like he’s fighting the urge to nod off,” Justin Baragona wrote on X, sharing three photos showing the man leaning back and sleepily observing Trump.

Other social media influencers looked for signs of boredom amongst the audience as Trump talked in circles.

“The young women behind Trump are struggling,” noted Aaron Rupar, an independent journalist who covers the Trump campaign from a liberal standpoint. He shared a video of a young woman stifling a yawn while one other woman sitting next to her appears engrossed in her phone.

Rupar noted that ladies seemed unfazed by Trump’s fear-mongering over acts of violence he attributed to immigrant gang members on Long Island, New York.

“Trump’s beautiful 16-year-olds cut with knives don’t seem like a big hit.” Rupper he wrote, while declaring Trump’s word salad, which included:Agriculture“for agriculture” and “flasks” regarding the jobs quote in which Trump tried to criticize the Biden administration for creating jobs but had difficulty making his views clear to supporters.

“The whistleblower posted information about 18 of the 800,000 cobs, and furthermore the whistleblower said you know it wasn’t 800,000 but 18,000, you add that up and then you add 100 and you think it’s 112,000 jobs,” Trump said.

“Just look at the crowd,” commented Fred Wellman, sharing a video showing a young woman waking up from a nap just as Trump made his gaffe.

In response to this error, a Michigan GOP Watch political pundit joked, “His brain is tapioca pudding.”

Rupar also identified that Trump began an anecdote about former first lady Michelle Obama but didn’t finish it.

“Trump starts with Michelle Obama but gets distracted and never finishes the thought,” Rupar wrote. “I have always treated his beautiful wife Michelle, I have always had great respect for her, but she has been hard on me lately…” Trump began. “What was that, Front Row Joes?” he asked before turning to the size of his crowd.

The speech reflected a pattern of Trump’s incoherence, characterised by a disturbing tendency to gibberish and contradict himself, which further fueled concerns about his understanding of key issues and the impact of his age as Trump turned 78 in June.

On Friday, in one other speech in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, Trump told rallygoers that he had a “very fertile brain,” while defending himself against critics who proceed to accuse the former president of “cognitive impairment.”

“I have a very fertile, very fertile brain, but it’s a weave and we do it, that’s how you tell one story and discuss about 15 subplots, but you come to a final answer,” Trump said, according to Newsweek. “They said: he was wandering, I’m not wandering. I’m making a weave, do you already know what a weave is? It’s history.”


This article was originally published on : atlantablackstar.com
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