In a surprise appearance that electrified the convention floor, Oprah Winfrey delivered a powerful message urging voters to “choose truth” as they head to the polls. Her unexpected speech, delivered with her trademark passion and eloquence, quickly became the highlight of the event, drawing widespread attention and acclaim.
Oprah, renowned for her influence and ability to connect with audiences, took the stage during a pivotal moment in the convention. Her speech was a call to action, encouraging voters to focus on honesty and integrity as they make their decisions in the upcoming election. She emphasized the importance of transparency and truthfulness in leadership, framing it as a critical factor in shaping the future of the nation.
During her address, Oprah reflected on the current political climate, underscoring the need for leaders who are grounded in truth rather than divisive rhetoric. Her message resonated with many attendees, who appreciated her emphasis on values that transcend party lines. Oprah’s ability to articulate a vision of unity and integrity struck a chord, positioning her speech as a memorable moment in the convention.
The decision to include Oprah in the convention’s lineup was a strategic one, aimed at energizing and inspiring voters. Her influence extends far beyond the media, reaching into the hearts and minds of many Americans who view her as a beacon of authenticity and wisdom. By addressing the convention, Oprah not only highlighted the stakes of the election but also reinforced the importance of making informed, principled choices.
Her endorsement of the pair helped to further energise the DNC – which has this week already hosted other famous faces such as rapper Lil Jon. In keeping with the tradition of party conventions, the Republicans, too, filled their own gathering last month with stardust. Musician Kid Rock and wrestler Hulk Hogan both made appearances. As well as voicing a message of unity, former talk-show host Winfrey tacitly criticised the Republican challengers, former President Donald Trump and Ohio Senator JD Vance.
“Despite what some would have you think, we are not so different from our neighbours,” Winfrey said. “When a house is on fire, we don’t ask about the homeowner’s race or religion, we don’t wonder who their partner is or how they voted. No. We just try to do the best we can to save them.”
In a slight directed at Mr Vance, she added: “And if the place happens to belong to a childless cat lady, well, we try to get that cat out, too.”
The comments referred to a 2021 interview in which Mr Vance referred to Democratic politicians as “a bunch of childless cat ladies who are miserable at their own lives and the choices that they’ve made and so they want to make the rest of the country miserable, too”.
The remarks, which went viral after Trump announced the Ohio senator as his running mate, were roundly criticised. Oprah does not have any children. The billionaire media mogul has shied away from politics in recent years. In 2007, she endorsed then-Illinois Senator Barack Obama’s longshot bid for president. Winfrey, who considered Mr Obama a friend as the two overlapped in Chicago’s political orbit, hosted fundraisers and volunteered for his campaign in Iowa.
But on Wednesday night, Winfrey cast herself as Independent, urging other like-minded voters to back Democrats in November. “You’re looking at a registered Independent who’s proud to vote again and again and again, because I’m an American, and that’s what Americans do,” she said. Tracy Prince and Kathy Sykes jumped out of their seats when they saw Oprah, who was born in their home state of Mississippi, take to the stage. “We love Oprah so much,” Mrs Sykes told BBC News. “Everyone in Mississippi is so proud that she claims us.”
Voters
She said Oprah’s speech was a “powerful message” to independent voters in particular to vote for Ms Harris. “She gave very good reasons why – to choose common sense over nonsense,” Mrs Sykes said from the convention hall.
Stay connected with Fact and US for more such news.