The Harris for President campaign has officially kicked off with its first video, just days after President Joe Biden announced he would not seek re-election. Vice President Kamala Harris quickly stepped into the spotlight, declaring her candidacy for the Democratic nomination. The campaign has already made waves, breaking fundraising records and securing enough delegate support to position Harris as the presumptive nominee with just over 100 days until the election.
The campaign video, released on Thursday morning, features Harris smiling confidently behind a podium, with the American flag waving in the background. The soundtrack is the powerful anthem “Freedom” by Beyoncé, which Harris used to enter and exit her first speech to campaign staff after gaining momentum in her bid for the presidency. The ad opens with Harris asking, “In this election we each face a question. What kind of country do we want to live in?”
Harris contrasts her vision for America with that of her opponents, stating, “There are some people who think we should be a country of chaos. Of fear. Of hate. But us, we choose something different.” The video captures the energy of her supporters, with a crowd chanting her name, “Kamala! Kamala! Kamala!”
As the chorus of Beyoncé’s song kicks in, Harris declares, “We choose freedom.” She elaborates on her vision for the future, emphasizing the importance of safety from gun violence, the right to make decisions about one’s own body, and the commitment to ensuring that no child lives in poverty. The ad also highlights the need for affordable healthcare and accountability under the law, with images of headlines referencing former President Trump’s legal troubles appearing on screen.
The ad is filled with optimism and positivity, showcasing smiling faces of voters at rallies, in their homes, and at work. It notably avoids discussing Harris’s past as a prosecutor, instead focusing on the hopeful message of her campaign. The video concludes with Harris encouraging viewers to join her campaign, as Beyoncé’s lyrics resonate in the background, “I’ma keep running ’cause a winner don’t quit on themselves.”
Beyoncé’s involvement in the campaign has been significant. Reports indicate that she granted Harris permission to use “Freedom” not just for the video but throughout her campaign. While Beyoncé has not made an official endorsement, her support is seen as a strong signal of alignment with Harris’s candidacy. The song itself, featuring Kendrick Lamar, has become an anthem of resilience and empowerment, resonating deeply with themes of civil rights and social justice.
Harris’s connection to Beyoncé goes beyond the campaign. The Vice President has been a long-time fan and attended Beyoncé’s Renaissance World Tour, where she was gifted tickets by the singer. This relationship has been highlighted in the media, showcasing the cultural ties that Harris is leveraging as she seeks to engage younger voters.
In the days following her announcement, Harris has garnered significant support from prominent Democrats and celebrities alike. The campaign has seen a surge in volunteer sign-ups and fundraising, indicating a strong grassroots movement behind her candidacy. Harris’s message of unity and progress is resonating with many, particularly among younger voters who are increasingly engaged in the political process.
As the campaign unfolds, Harris is expected to continue using music as a tool to connect with voters. The choice of “Freedom” as her campaign anthem sets a tone of empowerment and determination, aligning with her vision for a more inclusive and equitable America. The song’s themes of breaking free from oppression and fighting for justice are likely to resonate throughout her campaign.
The political landscape is shifting, and Harris’s candidacy represents a new chapter for the Democratic Party. With the backing of influential figures like Beyoncé and a growing base of support, Harris is poised to make a significant impact in the upcoming election. Her campaign is not just about winning votes; it’s about inspiring a movement that seeks to uplift and empower all Americans.
As the election approaches, all eyes will be on Harris as she navigates the challenges ahead. The combination of her political experience, cultural connections, and a powerful message of freedom and hope could prove to be a winning formula. The campaign is set to be a defining moment in American politics, and Harris is ready to lead the charge.
Source: CNN, Variety, Billboard
