Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer delivered a speech Thursday night at the Democratic National Convention, asserting that presidential candidate Kamala Harris embodies the values and experiences of average Americans. “Kamala Harris, she gets us,” Whitmer stated during her approximately four-and-a-half minute address, emphasizing Harris’s understanding of the everyday struggles faced by citizens.
Whitmer spoke on the final night of the convention, just before Harris took the stage. She highlighted the vice president’s ability to develop plans, speak the truth, and foster unity in times of crisis. “Right now, before the crisis, is when we get to choose,” Whitmer said, advocating for Harris as a strong leader who is experienced and capable.
In her speech, Whitmer contrasted Harris with Republican nominee Donald Trump, referring to him as “that man from Mar-A-Lago.” She questioned Trump’s connection to the average American, humorously asking if he had ever had to remove items from his shopping cart before checking out.
As Democrats rallied around Harris, who officially secured the Democratic presidential nomination in an online vote on August 5, the convention marked a significant transition following President Joe Biden’s recent decision to withdraw from the race and endorse Harris.
Harris, in her prepared remarks, emphasized her commitment to serving all Americans and her readiness to address the divisive challenges facing the nation. She underscored the importance of moving past bitterness and uniting as Americans, regardless of party affiliation. Harris warned that the implications of reelecting Trump would be severe.
Michigan played a pivotal role in the convention, with several state and federal officials, including Whitmer and U.S. Representative Elissa Slotkin, speaking on various issues. Slotkin focused on national security, critiquing Trump for undermining relationships with allies and treating adversaries favorably. She urged the audience to proudly express their patriotism and resist those who exploit such sentiments for political gain.
In response to Whitmer and Slotkin’s comments, Republican officials expressed their criticism. Team Trump Michigan Communications Director Victoria LaCivita accused them of prioritizing political ambitions over the welfare of Michiganders, characterizing Harris’s policies as detrimental to the state.
Genesee County Sheriff Chris Swanson, who also spoke at the convention, praised Harris’s record as a prosecutor and highlighted crime reduction in his area, attributing it to community efforts. He portrayed Harris as a leader equipped to protect and unify the community.
Amidst the convention’s overarching themes of unity, protests concerning the Israel-Hamas conflict revealed internal divisions within the party. Some Michigan Democrats and the United Workers Union had earlier called for a Palestinian American speaker but were unsuccessful. House Majority Floor Leader Abraham Aiyash criticized party leaders for failing to allow diverse voices at the convention.
During her speech, Harris addressed the Gaza conflict, expressing sorrow over the suffering of innocent Palestinians while affirming her support for Israel’s right to defend itself. She reiterated the Biden administration’s commitment to achieving a peaceful resolution that guarantees security for Israel and recognizes the dignity and rights of the Palestinian people.