Oprah Winfrey made an unexpected appearance at the Democratic National Convention (DNC) in Chicago, calling on voters to “choose truth” and prioritize common sense. Speaking to a cheering audience, she emphasized the importance of unity and joy, stating, “Let us choose truth, let us choose honour, let us choose joy,” highlighting these values as the essence of America. Winfrey, who has remained largely out of the political spotlight in recent years, endorsed Vice President Kamala Harris and her running mate, Minnesota Governor Tim Walz, just ahead of Walz’s acceptance speech for the vice-presidential nomination.
Her presence energized the DNC, which has featured various high-profile guests, including rapper Lil Jon earlier in the week. The Republican National Convention, held the previous month, also showcased celebrity appearances, with figures like Kid Rock and Hulk Hogan participating. Winfrey, while promoting a message of togetherness, subtly critiqued the Republican candidates, including former President Donald Trump and Ohio Senator JD Vance. She remarked, “Despite what some would have you think, we are not so different from our neighbours,” using the metaphor of responding to a house on fire without considering the owner’s background.
In a jab at Vance, she referenced previous comments he made about Democratic politicians, saying, “And if the place happens to belong to a childless cat lady, well, we try to get that cat out, too,” referring to Vance’s assertion that such individuals were behind the Democrats’ agenda. Oprah, who does not have children, has typically avoided political endorsements, having previously supported Barack Obama during his initial presidential run in 2007.
On this occasion, she identified herself as an Independent voter, encouraging others to support Democrats in the upcoming elections. “You’re looking at a registered Independent who’s proud to vote again and again and again, because I’m an American, and that’s what Americans do,” she declared. The excitement among Mississippi delegates was palpable, with attendees expressing immense pride in Winfrey’s roots and her compelling message aimed at independent voters.