Hillary Clinton emphasized on Monday the groundbreaking potential of Kamala Harris becoming the first woman elected president, alluding to the symbolic glass ceiling that Clinton herself attempted but failed to shatter during her 2016 presidential campaign.
Addressing the audience at the Democratic National Convention in Chicago, Clinton reflected on her historic bid eight years ago, stating, “Together, we put a lot of cracks in the highest, hardest glass ceiling.” She envisioned Harris on the other side of that barrier, poised to take the oath as the 47th president of the United States.
Clinton, the first woman to secure a major-party nomination for president, highlighted the significance of Democrats “writing a new chapter in America’s story.” She recounted the history of women seeking higher office, mentioning trailblazers like Shirley Chisholm and Geraldine Ferraro.
Kamala Harris, the first Black woman and first Asian American to lead a major political party’s ticket, was officially nominated earlier this month. Clinton drew parallels between her own journey to the nomination and Harris’, underscoring the surge of political engagement among women following her defeat to Donald Trump in 2016.
Clinton asserted, “Nearly 66 million Americans voted for a future where there are no ceilings on our dreams,” emphasizing the resilience and determination displayed by millions who marched and ran for office post-2016. She expressed confidence in Harris’ commitment to addressing key issues such as lowering costs for families, creating job opportunities, and safeguarding abortion rights nationwide.
Clinton also critiqued Trump, referencing his legal troubles and highlighting his unique history as a presidential candidate with felony convictions. The crowd responded with chants of “Lock him up,” echoing the infamous “Lock her up” chants directed at Clinton during Trump’s 2016 rallies.
In veiled criticisms of Trump, Clinton praised Harris for her respect towards Medal of Honor recipients and her diplomatic approach towards dictators, contrasting it with Trump’s controversial remarks on the prestigious award.
Clinton defended Harris against Trump’s mockery of her laugh and name, emphasizing the importance of supporting Harris in her endeavors, stating, “It still takes a village to raise a family, heal a country, and win a campaign.”
