In a surprising and energetic appearance at the Democratic National Convention, media mogul Oprah Winfrey took to the stage at the United Center in Chicago, rallying support for Vice President Kamala Harris. Winfrey, a late addition to the lineup, captivated the audience with her characteristic blend of humor, passion, and political insight. Though she has historically remained politically independent, Winfrey made it clear that she is throwing her weight behind Harris in the upcoming election, calling on independents and undecided voters to do the same.
Opening her remarks with a nostalgic nod to her Chicago roots, Winfrey declared, “Who said you can’t go home again!” before launching into a spirited endorsement of Harris. “We are beyond ridiculous tweets and lies and foolery,” she said, a thinly veiled critique of former President Donald Trump, the Republican nominee. Winfrey emphasized the need for “adult conversations” in the face of the country’s complex challenges, underscoring Harris’s capability to lead in such times.
A Veiled Swipe at J.D. Vance and Trump’s Response
During her speech, Winfrey took a light-hearted yet pointed jab at Republican Senator J.D. Vance, referring to him as a “childless cat lady,” a remark that drew laughter and applause from the crowd. This comment was likely aimed at highlighting the stark contrasts between the Democratic and Republican candidates, particularly in their approaches to governance and social issues. Winfrey’s quip served as a reminder of her knack for blending humor with sharp political commentary.
However, Winfrey’s appearance at the DNC did not go unnoticed by the Trump campaign. Shortly after her speech, the Trump War Room account on X (formerly Twitter) posted an old letter Winfrey had written to Trump in 2000, praising him for living a life of integrity. The letter, in which Winfrey jokingly suggested they would make a great political team, was clearly intended to undermine her credibility. Despite this, Winfrey’s endorsement of Harris remained the focal point of her message, with the media mogul urging voters to choose “decency and respect” over division.
Oprah Winfrey’s Political Evolution and Reluctant Return to the Fray
Oprah Winfrey’s foray into the 2024 election marks a significant moment in her political journey. Although she has often stayed on the sidelines, Oprah Winfrey’s previous endorsements have had considerable influence. Her support for then-Senator Barack Obama during the 2008 Democratic primaries is widely credited with boosting his campaign, potentially securing him an additional one million votes. In contrast, Winfrey was notably absent from the campaign trail in 2016 when she endorsed Hillary Clinton against Trump, a decision that some viewed as a missed opportunity.
This year, Oprah Winfrey was initially hesitant to get involved in the political arena, as her close friend and CBS anchor Gayle King revealed. However, after watching the Obamas’ stirring speeches at the convention, Winfrey felt compelled to join the fray. Her reluctance was nowhere to be seen as she passionately endorsed Harris, declaring, “We’re now so fired up you can’t wait to leave here and do something.” Winfrey’s words resonated deeply with the audience, highlighting her enduring ability to mobilize and inspire voters.
A Call to Action for Independents and Undecided Voters
In her closing remarks, Oprah Winfrey issued a powerful call to action directed at independent and undecided voters, urging them to support the Democratic ticket. Despite her partisan critiques, Winfrey reiterated her identity as an independent voter, emphasizing the importance of voting as an expression of American values. “Voting is the best of America,” she stated, reflecting on her lifelong commitment to voting her values.
Winfrey’s speech culminated in a stirring appeal to the audience to “choose freedom” by electing Kamala Harris as the next president of the United States. She ended her address by sing-songing Harris’s name, leaving the crowd energized and hopeful. Oprah Winfrey’s endorsement, though expected by some, has added a significant voice to Harris’s campaign, potentially swaying voters who remain on the fence as the election draws near.
