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Vice President Kamala Harris, fresh off a failed presidential bid, delivered a holiday message on Dec. 15 at the Democratic National Committee’s holiday reception that has since drawn sharp criticism.
Harris spoke to a room filled with DNC staffers, offering sentiments that some have called tone-deaf, especially given the recent layoffs of numerous campaign employees.
“We are heartbroken to see our colleagues—who dedicated countless hours to electing Democrats up and down the ballot—depart under these circumstances, and we are furious with DNC leadership for failing to provide severance to those affected,” read a GoFundMe campaign initiated by the DNC union to support the terminated staffers. The fundraiser had raised its $25,000 goal as of Dec. 16.
Despite this backdrop, Harris delivered a speech centered on resilience and optimism.
“This holiday season, like any time of the year, let us really be conscious of all the blessings we have,” Harris stated, according to Fox News. “Let us celebrate the blessings we have; let us celebrate and advance the blessings we have yet to create. And let us always remember our country is worth fighting for, and our spirit will not be defeated.”
Critics have pointed out the disconnect between her remarks and the current situation facing many within the DNC.
“Our spirit will not be defeated,” Harris continued. “And hear me when I say this, that spirit that fuels the countless hours and days and months of work that you have put into this, that spirit—it can never be defeated. Our spirit is not defeated. We are not defeated.”
For her critics, the words seemed at odds with the realities of her campaign’s failure and the ensuing financial strain that left her former employees without severance during the holiday season.
Harris doubled down, urging supporters to continue their efforts: “Let’s be clear about that. We are strong. We are clear about why we are in this. And because you’re here right now, I say again, thank you because not only are you clear about all of that, you’re willing to put in the hard work, and that work must continue.”
Observers noted the irony of emphasizing “hard work” while many staffers remain unpaid and underappreciated.
Harris’ speech has been likened by some to a Grinch-like gesture, representing greed and a lack of regard for the very people who worked to advance her campaign. Her remarks have been widely criticized as disillusioned and insensitive, further deepening the divide within the Democratic Party as it regroups after a difficult election cycle.
Critics argue that the vice president’s statements reflect poorly on her leadership and could impact her political ambitions moving forward.
