Democratic presidential candidate Vice President Kamala Harris, accompanied by her running mate, Minnesota Governor Tim Walz (left), appears at a campaign rally in Philadelphia on August 6, 2024.
AP PHOTO/MATT ROURKE
I appreciate the points raised by Karen Gardner in her excellent column, “The Joy is Back” (Gazette, August 14). It is clear to all that the entry of Kamala Harris and Tim Walz into the presidential race has greatly increased enthusiasm for the Democratic nomination.
President Joe Biden’s selfless decision to step down and endorse Kamala Harris as his successor was received very positively. But I am surprised that it sparked joy, an unusual word associated with American politics. What could be behind this?
To me, this joy reflects more than just the renewed enthusiasm of Democrats about a possible victory in November – it expresses, in a much deeper way, the growing hope of people that they can preserve our system of democracy and freedom. This feeling of joy seems to be an expression of empowerment and also a desire to work together for a better future with respect, cooperation and harmony for all.
While this is a tall order for any elected official, the positive emotions Harris and Walz have unleashed are remarkably powerful and indicate a turning point that leaves the politics of division and negativity of their opponents behind. It is very inspiring to see this powerful surge of energy in creating a better and more positive country and world.
Sidney Moss
Northampton
