Slotkin speaks out in favor of Harris in foreign policy at the Democratic Party Convention

Chicago – Congresswoman Elissa Slotkin of Michigan called for a stronger foreign policy under a Kamala Harris presidency in a speech on the final evening of the Democratic National Convention.

Harris, Slotkin argued, was aware that the nation's strength abroad was linked to its strength at home.

“We believe America should inspire and lead at home and abroad,” the Holly Democrat said from the main stage at the United Center in Chicago. “We recognize that it's not just about having a strong military, but also about working together to address global challenges like AI and climate change.”

The three-term congresswoman and former CIA official urged the crowd to “proudly declare” their patriotism and “ignore hypocrites who wrap themselves in the flag but spit in the face of the freedoms it represents.” She said Harris will move the nation forward.

“America is not following,” Slotkin said. “We are not retreating. We are the damn United States of America. We are leading.”

The focus on the evening Harris officially accepts her nomination is on foreign policy, as Republican Donald Trump tries to link illegal immigration under President Joe Biden and the Harris administration to reduced security in the country.

At a campaign rally in Howell on Tuesday, Trump repeated a claim he often makes during the campaign – without providing any evidence: “Thousands of terrorists” are entering the country illegally.

“These are the people who blew up the World Trade Center,” Trump said at an event at the Livingston County Sheriff's Office. “Bad things are going to happen. And if I'm elected, we're going to get them out of here.”

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Whitmer and Swanson speak later

Slotkin's speech on the fourth night of the DNC came before speeches by two other Michigan speakers. Genesee County Sheriff Chris Swanson and Gov. Gretchen Whitmer are also expected to speak later in the evening.

Slotkin is running for the U.S. Senate seat held by Democratic Senator Debbie Stabenow of Lansing, who is not seeking re-election. She won her Democratic primary earlier this month by a clear margin against actor and businessman Hill Harper, finishing more than 50 points ahead.

In the general election in November, she will face former U.S. Rep. Mike Rogers, a former FBI agent who lives in White Lake Township.

Whitmer, who is serving her second term, is expected to take the stage shortly before Vice President Kamala Harris formally accepts the Democrat's nomination. The Democratic governor is co-chairing the Harris campaign.

Swanson, a Democrat who is expected to speak later in the evening, attracted national attention in 2020 when he removed his riot gear and marched with demonstrators in Flint protesting the death of George Floyd.

Swanson appeared in a television commercial for President Joe Biden in June, when he was still the Democratic nominee, accusing former President Donald Trump of failing to try to stop his supporters from attacking police officers during the riots at the U.S. Capitol on Jan. 6, 2021.

He has indicated in the past that he is considering running for governor.

Michigan was able to welcome high-profile speakers every night of the four-day national convention in Chicago.

State Senator Mallory McMorrow and United Auto Workers President Shawn Fain addressed delegates on Monday, followed by U.S. Senator Gary Peters on Tuesday. Attorney General Dana Nessel spoke Wednesday evening.

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