Vice President Kamala Harris took a new approach to pro-Palestinian hecklers at an Arizona rally, addressing their concerns directly and reiterating her support for a ceasefire deal.
At a rally in Arizona, pro-Palestinian protesters heckled Harris over her support for Israel in its war in the Gaza Strip, something that has been happening to her and happened to President Joe Biden as well before he dropped out of the race. After receiving criticism for her harsh approach at a previous interaction Thursday, Harris tried a different approach, acknowledging the need for a ceasefire.
“We are all in here together, I’m told an extraordinary number of people, because we love our country; we’re here to fight for our democracy,” Harris said, followed by cheers from the crowd.
“Which includes respecting the voices that I think that we are hearing from. And let me just say this, on the topic of what I think I’m hearing from over there. … So let me say: I have been clear now is the time to get a ceasefire deal and get the hostage deal done. Now is the time,” she continued.
“The president and I are working around the clock every day to get that ceasefire deal done and bring the hostages home. So I respect your voices but we are here to now talk about this race in 2024,” the vice president concluded, resuming her stump speech.
The Biden administration’s support for Israel has led to blistering criticism from certain factions within the Democratic Party, with many accusing Biden and Harris of being complicit in genocide.
Harris was criticized by some after forcefully reacting to protesters at a previous campaign stop in Detroit.
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“I’m here because we believe in democracy. Everyone’s voice matters,” she said then. “But I am speaking now. I am speaking now.”
When they did not quiet down, Harris said, “You know what? If you want Donald Trump to win, then say that. Otherwise, I’m speaking.”
