Vice President Kamala Harris, the Democratic Party’s nominee for the 2024 presidential election, made a strong appeal for Native American support during a rally at the Desert Diamond Arena in Phoenix, drawing an audience of over 15,000. She emphasized her commitment to tribal sovereignty and self-determination, stating, “I will always honor tribal sovereignty and respect tribal self-determination and fight for a future where every Native person can realize their aspirations, and every Native community is a place of opportunity.”
This was Harris’s most significant outreach to Native voters since announcing her presidential candidacy nearly three weeks ago, following President Joe Biden’s unexpected withdrawal from the race. With Arizona hosting 22 federally recognized tribes, including a substantial portion of the Navajo Nation, her appeal was particularly strategic.
The Harris campaign recognizes the necessity of securing the Native vote, especially in light of the narrow margin by which Biden won Arizona in 2020—just 10,457 votes. Political analysts attribute a portion of this success to the Native vote, which in certain areas saw nearly 90% support for Biden.
Gila River Indian Community Governor Stephen Roe Lewis opened the rally in support of Harris, praising her dedication to Indian country and advocating for tribal sovereignty and treaty responsibilities. He expressed confidence in her ability to lead as the country’s 47th President.
Harris’s statements reflect the Biden-Harris administration’s ongoing commitment to a government-to-government relationship with tribal nations since taking office in January 2021. Polls indicate that tribal sovereignty remains a top priority for Native Americans.
Harris and her running mate, Walz, are campaigning across several key states, having made stops in Philadelphia, Eau Claire, Detroit, and Phoenix, where they have attracted large crowds. Next, the campaign will continue with a rally in Las Vegas.