Kamala Harris vowed to chart a “new way forward” for America in a speech formally accepting her Democratic nomination on Thursday, where she touched on issues seen as campaign weaknesses including foreign policy and the war in Gaza. Taking to the stage with a thunderous standing ovation at the Democratic convention in Chicago, Ms Harris sought to introduce herself to the American public and outline her vision for leading the nation for the next four years. “Our nation with this election has a precious, fleeting opportunity to move past the bitterness, cynicism, and divisive battles of the past,” Ms Harris said.
“A chance to chart a new way forward. Not as members of any one party or faction, but as Americans.” She backed Israel’s right to defend itself, but described the war in Gaza as “heartbreaking” and “devastating”, adding that Palestinians had a right to “self-determination”.
“President Biden and I are working to end this war, so that Israel is secure, the hostages are released, the suffering in Gaza ends, and the Palestinian people can realise their right to dignity, security, freedom and self-determination,” she added. The question of recognising Palestinian statehood is a hugely sensitive issue, both in the US and internationally. Ms Harris rarely waded into foreign policy matters as vice president, but has come under greater scrutiny since Joe Biden dropped out of the presidential race last month.
She has attempted to tread a middle grou.