Vice President Kamala Harris, who is expected to be the Democratic nominee for president in 2024, has released her first campaign ad, set to Beyoncé’s hit song “Freedom.” The 79-second ad debuted on Thursday morning and features heartwarming scenes of a diverse America, including LGBTQ+ people waving progressive and pride flags.
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The ad begins with Harris asking viewers a fundamental question: “In this election, each of us is faced with the question: what kind of country do we want to live in?” As the camera pans to footage of communities, the vice president contrasts two visions of America. “Some people think we should be a country of chaos and fear and hate. But we choose different,” she argues.
“We choose freedom,” Harris’ declaration is repeated by a voiceover and Beyoncé singing, “Freedom, freedom, freedom, freedom. Where are you? ‘Cause I need freedom too.”
The ad emphasizes a vision of freedom that goes beyond simply surviving. “Not just surviving, but the freedom to thrive. The freedom to protect yourself from gun violence. The freedom to make your own decisions about your own body,” Harris continues, outlining her commitment to tackling systemic issues. “We choose a future where no child lives in poverty, where everyone has access to health care, and where no one is above the law.” The ad features a photo of former President Donald Trump and a newspaper headline about his indictment and conviction on 34 counts of fraud, but he is never mentioned by name in the commercial.
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The ad’s visuals resonate with Harris’ vision of freedom for all Americans from all walks of life. The ad ends with a call to action, encouraging viewers to join her campaign by visiting kamalaharris.com and become part of this movement for change.
Beyonce’s inclusion gives the ad even more star power: The superstar singer last week gave permission for Harris’ campaign to use her song “Freedom,” which has become a theme song for social justice and equality causes.
Harris has tapped into the American zeitgeist — the excitement over the first woman to run for president, the first black woman of Southeast Asian descent, and the hunger for a new generation of leaders — and this ad encapsulates that energy, showcasing a campaign rooted in inclusivity and forward thinking.
In addition to the ads, a national Out for Harris LGBTQ+ Unity call will be held Thursday night, co-hosted by leading LGBTQ+ advocacy groups including the Human Rights Campaign, Equality California and the National LGBTQ Task Force. The virtual rally aims to rally support for Harris’ campaign and highlight the importance of the November election.
The ad was released following a successful campaign kickoff event in Wisconsin on Tuesday, where Harris spoke to more than 3,000 supporters.
The ad’s positive and empowering message stands in stark contrast to the anger and dark vision portrayed in Trump’s messaging.
Watch the Harris campaign’s “We Choose Freedom” ad below.
We Choose Freedom | Harris 2024www.youtube.com
