Oprah Winfrey, renowned as one of the most influential figures globally, is set to take part in the Democratic National Convention on Wednesday night, expressing her support for Vice President Kamala Harris’ presidential campaign.
According to sources familiar with the evening’s agenda, Winfrey will make an appearance ahead of Minnesota Governor Tim Walz’s acceptance of the Democratic vice presidential nomination.
Eyewitnesses reported that Winfrey was spotted at the United Center, where she expressed her excitement about attending.
“I’m so happy to be here,” she told a person she encountered in the hallway.
Gayle King, a close friend of Winfrey, offered a preview of her remarks during a broadcast on CBS. King mentioned that Winfrey had been finalizing her speech and initially did not plan to engage politically, as she typically avoids such involvement. However, King confirmed that Winfrey has significant points to share that evening.
King also shared the lengths taken to keep Winfrey’s speech under wraps, noting that during rehearsals, she donned a cap, sunglasses, and a face mask. When Winfrey greeted former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, the latter reportedly did not recognize her.
The DNC is drawing considerable attention in Chicago, with notable appearances from artists like Lil Jon and performances lined up from Stevie Wonder, John Legend, Maren Morris, and Pink as the convention progresses.
In 2020, Winfrey endorsed President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris, acknowledging Harris as a groundbreaking figure as the first woman and woman of color to hold the vice presidency. Reflecting on this milestone, Winfrey remarked to People Magazine, “I was thinking the other day, ‘I wish Maya [Angelou] were alive to see it.’ …There’s no way to measure what the election of Kamala Harris means for all women, all colors, everywhere.”
Winfrey’s political engagement is not new; her endorsement of former President Barack Obama in 2008 garnered significant media attention. While she supported Hillary Clinton in 2016, she generally maintained a low profile in political contests.
This article has been updated to include new information.