On Saturday, October 19, Vice President Kamala Harris fired up her supporters in Detroit, urging them to take advantage of the early voting period. Speaking at Western International High School, Harris encouraged everyone to get to the polls and make their voices heard as the clock ticks down to Election Day, which is just 17 days away. The excitement in the air was palpable as local officials and community members rallied around the Vice President, reinforcing the urgency of participating in the democratic process.
Detroit kicked off its early voting on October 19, ahead of most other cities in Michigan, which start their early voting on October 26. With November 3 marking the final day for early in-person voting in the state, Harris emphasized the importance of not just showing up, but showing up early. She’s facing off against former President Donald Trump in the November 5 general election, and every single vote counts, especially in this pivotal swing state.
In her roughly ten-minute speech, Harris maintained her signature campaign energy, blending humor with a passionate call to action. “Who is the capital of breaking records?” she quipped, pointing out North Carolina's impressive early voting turnout this week. “We’re going to break some records here in Detroit!” Her enthusiasm was infectious, and she made it clear that the stakes couldn't be higher.
Mobilizing the Community
As Harris spoke, local leaders rallied early voters to head to Clark Park, just across the street from the high school. Detroit Mayor Mike Duggan and other officials led the charge, emphasizing the convenience of the early voting period. “Now to be able to have an extra 16 days and have the same experience you would on Election Day — whatever’s most convenient, I think it’ll work out well,” Duggan said, highlighting the benefits of the new voting timeline.
Among those making their way to the polls were sisters Edna Bugh and Flethea Williams, who attended their very first political rally just to see Harris. “She’s for our freedom and for us to be able to say what we want to say with our bodies as women,” Williams declared, encapsulating the sentiments of many attendees who see this election as a fight for fundamental rights.
Adding a touch of celebrity to the event, Detroit-born singer Lizzo, whose real name is Melissa Viviane Jefferson, made an appearance. After casting her vote for Harris, she took selfies with fans, emphasizing the crucial role every vote plays in a swing state like Michigan. “This is the swing state of all swing states, so every single last vote here counts,” Jefferson affirmed, amplifying Harris’s message.
Campaign Trail Highlights
As the campaign heats up, Harris is expected back in Michigan for further engagements, with former President Barack Obama slated to join her on the trail. Their combined efforts aim to solidify voter support in a state that could tip the scales in the upcoming election. Harris’s busy schedule recently included stops in Grand Rapids, Lansing, and Oakland County, while Trump held his own events, including a rally at Huntington Place in downtown Detroit.
While many supporters are enthusiastic, some attendees expressed anxiety about the momentum of Harris’s campaign. City Council member Gabriela Santiago-Romero, who represents the majority-Hispanic Southwest Detroit, articulated concerns about whether the excitement online translates into real-world votes. “There was no real momentum, it was excitement that came through social media... memes don’t get you votes,” she noted, pointing out the potential disconnect between online enthusiasm and actual turnout.
Santiago-Romero also observed a few Trump signs in her neighborhood but emphasized that in Southwest Detroit, actions speak louder than words. “In Southwest, people won’t show you with their signs; they’re going to show you with their votes.” This statement captures the heart of the issue—while signs and social media chatter can create buzz, the real measure of support will come at the ballot box.
Addressing Community Needs
Harris’s campaign has been criticized for not reaching out sufficiently to Spanish-speaking voters. Sergio Martinez, an undocumented immigrant and member of the immigrant rights nonprofit Michigan United, expressed his frustrations after the event. Wearing a Kamala T-shirt, he emphasized the urgency of addressing the concerns of the immigrant community, particularly in light of Trump’s previous policies. “For her to choose Western International High School for this speech and not address our immediate needs… The effect of her saying so can make waves,” he remarked.
Martinez, who has lived in the U.S. since he was five, may not have a vote to cast, but he showed up to remind those who do what is at stake. “Trump wants to deport me,” he said, a poignant reminder of the fear many in the immigrant community face. “You are in Southwest Detroit, Madam Vice President — say something.” This call for action resonates deeply within the community, highlighting the need for candidates to engage more actively with all constituents, particularly those from marginalized backgrounds.
Looking Ahead
As the election approaches, both Harris and Trump are keenly aware of Michigan’s critical role. The state, once a reliable stronghold for Democrats, has become a battleground with shifting demographics and varying voter sentiments. Harris’s ability to mobilize support among key demographics, including Black and Latino voters, will be crucial in securing a victory.
In her speech, Harris laid out a vision that resonates with many voters: a future where everyone’s rights are respected and protected. Her call for unity and action is not just about winning an election; it’s about fostering a sense of belonging and agency among all voters. The enthusiasm seen at her rally is just a glimpse of the collective hope that drives so many to the polls.
As Harris prepares for her return to Michigan next week, the pressure is on to ensure that every voice is heard and every vote is counted. The stakes are high, and as the campaign continues to unfold, the excitement in the air is a reminder of what’s at risk come November 5. The outcome of this election could shape the future of the country, making the next few weeks all the more crucial.
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