San Francisco is set to be the backdrop for former Vice President Kamala Harris's emergence in the public eye since her defeat in the 2024 presidential election. Harris will deliver the keynote address at a San Francisco hotel for the 20th anniversary gala of Emerge America. This group has been instrumental in training Democratic women to run for elected office. A'shanti Gholar, Emerge's president and CEO, spoke highly of Harris, citing her pivotal role in the founding and ongoing inspiration of the organization. "Vice President Harris is the original Emerge woman," Gholar stated, a sentiment echoed by NBC Bay Area.
The anticipation surrounding Harris's speech is significant as political spectators are set to keenly observe her remarks, which are expected to boldly criticize the early days of President Trump's current term. This event will occur just one day following President Trump's first 100 days in office, a period often considered a benchmark for a new government's priorities and direction. As CBS News San Francisco reports, Harris has maintained a lower profile since the election. However, there is speculation she may soon officially enter the race for California governor, with incumbent Gavin Newsom's second term ending in 2026 and polls indicating strong support for a potential Harris campaign.
Among those also speaking at the Emerge gala are New Mexico State Sen. Cindy Nava and Arizona Governor Katie Hobbs, indicating the event's far-reaching influence in American politics. Tickets for the physical event have completely sold out, though those interested can still purchase access to a virtual livestream for $25 through Emerge's secure event page. The organization boasts an impressive legacy, with over 6,500 alumni and more than 1,200 actively holding office across various levels of government, as detailed by NBC Bay Area.
Harris recently appeared in early April at the Leading Women Defined Summit, where she alluded to the quietude of organizations and individuals in the face of unconstitutional threats. This speech will likely expand on such themes, highlighting the need for a vocal, engaged, and upstanding approach from political leaders and constituents alike, as she noted during the event covered by CBS News San Francisco.
