Vice President Harris is set to reinforce her closing argument that Donald Trump poses a threat to democracy by giving a speech on Tuesday at the Ellipse, where the former president spoke before his supporters stormed the Capitol on Jan. 6, 2021. The speech, taking place a week before Election Day, will urge voters to move on from Trump and emphasize his role in the events of that day. Harris will highlight the contrasting visions of America offered in this election and will then take her message on the road, visiting every battleground state over the next week. The tone of the speech is described as “optimistic” and “hopeful,” focusing on the differences between Harris and Trump’s visions for the country. Harris will argue that Trump, if elected, would prioritize a supposed “enemies list,” while she has a “to-do list” for the nation. She will caution voters that Trump is consumed by grievances and the desire for retribution, and that many Americans are frustrated by the political divide. As polling shifts in Trump’s favor, concerns have been raised by Democrats that Harris’s campaign is too focused on rebuking Trump rather than promoting her own plans. Despite these concerns, Harris maintains that addressing issues such as reducing costs and defending democracy are among her top priorities. The speech is expected to draw a crowd of around 20,000 people at the Ellipse, with overflow expected at the Washington Monument grounds. Harris’s decision to speak at the Ellipse, within view of the White House and the site of Trump’s Jan. 6 speech, serves as a reminder of the events that unfolded on that day. She may warn that history could repeat itself if Trump refuses to accept the election results. While Harris has refrained from directly labeling Trump as a fascist, she has agreed with others who have characterized his campaign as such. The speech may provide an opportunity for Harris to further condemn Trump’s actions. Protests from both pro-Trump and pro-Palestine groups could occur during the speech, given the significance of the location to the events of Jan. 6. Harris has faced interruptions from pro-Palestine protesters at previous campaign stops, but has maintained her pro-Israel stance amidst criticism. The Biden administration’s support for Israel during the conflict in Gaza has led to protests from pro-Palestinian Americans, raising concerns about Harris’s support among Arab and Muslim Americans and young voters in key swing states.
