Vice President Kamala Harris shared a poignant message ahead of the January 6 certification of the 2024 presidential election results. In a pre-recorded video, she highlighted the importance of a peaceful transition of power, a fundamental principle of American democracy.
“The peaceful transfer of power is what sets our system apart from monarchy or tyranny,” Harris said.
Harris is set to preside over a joint session of Congress, performing her constitutional duty despite losing the 2024 election to President-elect Donald Trump. “This duty is a sacred obligation—one I will uphold guided by love of country, loyalty to our Constitution, and my unwavering faith in the American people,” she said.
Reflecting on the violent events of January 6, 2021, Harris reminded the nation of democracy’s fragility. She urged Americans to stand firm in defense of cherished principles, noting the lessons learned from the Capitol riots. “As we have seen, our democracy can be fragile. And it is up to each of us to stand up for our most cherished principles,” she added.
Harris joins a small group of vice presidents who have certified their own election losses, following Richard Nixon in 1960 and Al Gore in 2000. Her message echoed sentiments from her concession speech, where she encouraged a peaceful transition and emphasized national unity.
The vice president also planned to ceremonially swear in new Representative Lateefah Simon (D-Calif.) on the same day, further demonstrating her commitment to supporting new leadership. Harris has been a vocal advocate for safeguarding democratic institutions, consistently warning against the risks posed by political division and violence.
While Harris acknowledged the challenges of recent years, her message conveyed hope and resilience. “The peaceful transfer of power is not just a tradition but a testament to the strength of our democracy,” she affirmed, urging citizens to remain vigilant in protecting it.
Her remarks resonated with many, reminding the nation of the importance of unity and the enduring principles that uphold the democratic process.
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