Vice President Kamala Harris stepped into the political spotlight amidst President Joe Biden's recuperation from COVID-19, heralding her campaign commencement.
Following Biden's endorsement, Harris admired his legacy and outlined her presidential aspirations, Mail Online reported.
In an address at the White House, organized initially to honor NCAA champions, Vice President Kamala Harris commended the athletes and seamlessly transitioned the focus to her upcoming presidential campaign.
Despite President Biden's absence due to a recent COVID diagnosis, Harris ensured the assembled crowd that the president was "feeling much better and recovering fast," looking forward to resuming his activities soon.
The change in plans from a ceremonial accolade to a campaign launch did not dampen the enthusiasm of the nearly 1,000 supporters who gathered under the drizzly conditions at the South Lawn.
Emboldened by Biden's endorsement, Harris quickly embarked on a rigorous schedule that included engaging with Congress members, donors, and other crucial political figures.
Vice President Kamala Harris described the profound impact of President Biden's tenure, stating, "In one term, he has already surpassed the legacy of most presidents who have served two terms in office."
The vice President stated:
Beau admired the same qualities in his father that I witnessed every day in our president: his honesty, his integrity, his deep commitment to faith and family, and above all, his profound love of country.
The impromptu campaign event also served as a financial boon for Harris, whose campaign reported raising almost $50 million since receiving Biden's backing.
This substantial influx of funds is telling of her strong foothold within the Democratic base, which she hopes will secure her the nomination outright despite the absence of endorsements from key figures like Barack Obama and Nancy Pelosi at this early stage.
Later that day, Kamala Harris conveyed her immediate plans to visit the campaign's headquarters in Wilmington, Delaware, signifying her hands-on approach to her presidential run.
"It's the first full day of our campaign, so I'm heading up to Wilmington, DE later to say 'hello' to our staff in HQ. One day down. 105 to go. Together, we're going to win this," she enthusiastically remarked.
This strategic move underscores the shifting dynamics within the Democratic Party, as the Biden re-election campaign office has now fully transitioned to support "Harris for President."
With the upcoming Democratic National Convention in Chicago this August, where delegates will have the freedom to vote for any candidate, Harris's early, strong start could be pivotal.
Harris's assertion of her qualifications and readiness was palpable as she confidently stated her intention to "earn and win this nomination." The consolidation of support within her party, combined with her proactive approach to campaigning, positions her as a formidable contender in the race.
As Harris forges ahead with her presidential campaign, the expertise and experience she plans to bring to the highest office were evident at her first major event post-Biden's endorsement.
Her ambitious start, backed by significant funding and a well-planned campaign strategy, sets a rigorous pace for what promises to be a lively electoral cycle.
The outcome of the Democratic National Convention in Chicago will further clarify her standing among party delegates and the broader electorate.
