Oprah Winfrey Rallies for Kamala Harris in Michigan, Calls for Unity and Action
In a powerful display of support, media mogul Oprah Winfrey hosted a rally for Kamala Harris on Thursday, September 19th, in Michigan. This event, known as the “Unite for America” rally, aimed to galvanise Democratic supporters in the swing state ahead of the US elections. The live-streamed town hall was attended by about 400 people in person, while thousands more joined via YouTube, Facebook, and other platforms. The virtual rally also featured celebrity guests, including Chris Rock, Tracee Ellis Ross, Jennifer Lopez, Julia Roberts, Meryl Streep, and Ben Stiller, who participated via Zoom.
The rally kicked off with a warm welcome from Winfrey as she invited Kamala Harris on stage in Farmington Hills, Michigan. “Can you feel it? Can you feel the joy rising in here?” Winfrey asked, setting a positive tone for the event. Harris responded to the energy of the room, saying, “This movement is about reminding each other that we have so much more in common than what separates us. This is so much bigger than me. It’s about who we are as Americans.”
Key Issues Discussed: Guns, Economy, and More
The event was structured around audience questions, addressing crucial topics like gun control, the economy, inflation, border policies, and reproductive rights. During a particularly candid discussion on gun control, Winfrey revealed her surprise to discover that Harris is a gun owner. Harris responded with a humorous yet serious take: “If somebody breaks into my house, they’re getting shot,” she said, laughing before adding, “Probably should not have said that. My staff will deal with that later…”
Harris went on to clarify her stance on gun control, stressing that while she believes in the right to bear arms, there must be stronger background checks and a ban on assault weapons, calling these measures “just common sense.”
Celebrities Rally for Unity
The inclusion of high-profile celebrities underscored the importance of the event, with figures like Chris Rock and Jennifer Lopez lending their voices remotely to energise voters. Their participation aimed to not only entertain but to remind the audience of the significance of unity and action in the face of division.
Oprah’s Closing Plea
Winfrey’s closing remarks were a heartfelt appeal to undecided voters, urging them to carefully weigh their choices in the upcoming election. “For all of you watching who are still on the fence, in the middle, independent as I am, or whether you just still don’t know what you’re going to do, this is the moment for all decent and caring people who want the best for yourself and others,” Winfrey said. She concluded by saying, “This is the moment for people who are tired of all of the bickering and all of the name-calling. People who are exhausted by the craziness and the made-up stories and the conspiracies.”
As the rally wrapped up, the message was clear: unity and action are needed now more than ever to bring about positive change.