Former Vice President Kamala Harris delivered a message of hope during her book tour stop at The Wiltern in Los Angeles on September 29, 2023. Speaking to a sold-out crowd, Harris emphasized the importance of perseverance in the face of adversity, asserting that the struggle for a better America must continue despite challenging times. “Our spirit cannot be defeated with an election or by an individual or a circumstance,” she stated, urging attendees not to abandon the fight for democracy.
The Los Angeles event, titled “A Conversation with Kamala Harris,” marked the third stop in her promotional tour for her recently released book, “107 Days.” The title refers to the duration of her presidential campaign, which ended after then-President Joe Biden suspended his own reelection bid. During the discussion, moderated by podcast hosts Jennifer Welch and Angie Sullivan, Harris reflected on her political journey and the current state of the nation.
Harris shared her belief that many of the events witnessed since Donald Trump resumed office in January were predictable. However, she expressed disappointment at what she termed the “capitulation” of certain institutions, including universities and media companies, to the pressures exerted by Trump. “I always believed that if push came to shove, the titans of industry would be among the guardians of our democracy. And I have been deeply disappointed,” she remarked.
Unlike her previous tour stop in New York City, which was interrupted by pro-Palestinian protests, the Los Angeles event proceeded without disruptions. Audience members vocally supported Harris, chanting “Madame President” and “MVP! MVP!” throughout the evening.
Despite the enthusiasm from her supporters, Harris did not divulge any concrete plans regarding her political future. Following her announcement in July that she would not run for governor of California, attendees were left wondering about her intentions for future elections. As she approaches her 61st birthday on October 20, Harris has 15 additional speaking engagements planned to promote her book, including upcoming stops in Houston and San Francisco this weekend.
Almost all events in the tour, including the upcoming Los Angeles stop on October 28, are currently sold out, highlighting the ongoing interest in Harris’s journey and message. As her tour continues, the former vice president remains a prominent figure in American politics, with many keen to see how her narrative unfolds in the months ahead.
