In a desperate attempt to drum up support for the recently crowned presumptive nominee Kamala Harris, Democratic Senate Leader Chuck Schumer gave his most convincing performance of enthusiasm to a less-than-interested audience. Speaking during a joint press conference held on Tuesday with House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries, Schumer read a pre-prepared statement about the vice president’s candidacy for president.
The press conference also came after both men held off from announcing their support for Harris. Both were rumored to be considering other options as DNC operatives worked their magic behind the scenes. While Schumer’s words were positive, though, his actions didn’t come across as authentic. Slightly raising his voice, Schumer said that America was beginning its “next chapter” and that it will be the “best yet.” He also proclaimed that Vice President Kamala Harris will “beat Donald Trump” in November.
Jeffries echoed his colleague’s comments, describing Kamala as a capable leader who is “ready” and “willing” to lead the country into the future.
Schumer noticed the lack of response from the crowd, and even encouraged them to applaud in a moment reminiscent of Jeb Bush’s “please clap” moment. But at least in the case of Jeb, he was trying to be funny. Regardless, they still didn’t chat. Watching the clip below, it’s hard not to notice the robotic nature of Schumer’s own cheers and applause.
Videos of the interaction immediately went viral on X, formerly known as Twitter.
Regardless of whether the endorsement is genuine, though, Harris secured a huge win by gaining their support. Not only does she have the support of Biden’s delegates – at least for the most part – but she also has the support of the biggest names in the party. It makes Harris the presumptive nominee without even a single ballot being cast and is certain to raise questions among Democrat voters about transparency within the party.
Democrat voters still haven’t forgotten about what the DNC did to Bernie Sanders.
Reports reveal that Schumer spoke with Harris over the phone ahead of his announcement. Confirming the call, Schumer said that he had held off from endorsing her because Harris wanted to win the nomination “on her own” and “from the grassroots.”
Do you think this was a grassroots campaign?