Kamala Harris Stands by Staff After DNC Cutbacks

(LibertySociety.com) – Vice President Kamala Harris sought to uplift Democratic National Committee (DNC) staffers facing layoffs during the organization’s holiday celebration in Washington, D.C., on Sunday. Harris addressed the group, many of whom were let go without severance packages after the election, assuring them that their dedication and spirit would endure despite the challenges.

“This holiday season, let us celebrate the blessings we have and advance the blessings yet to come,” Harris said. She praised the hard work and sacrifices made by the staffers, emphasizing their resilience. “That spirit, which fuels countless hours of work, can never be defeated. You are strong, and the work must continue.”

Harris’s comments came amid frustrations expressed by some DNC staffers regarding the abrupt layoffs and the lack of severance packages. The DNC union had criticized the decision, calling it ‘cruel’ and arguing that the organization had failed to treat its workers with ‘basic dignity’. Post-election layoffs are not uncommon in Washington, but this year’s firings have drawn sharp criticism due to the absence of benefits typically provided in such cases.

President Joe Biden followed Harris on stage and used his speech to defend the administration’s legacy as they prepare to leave office. “The one thing I’ve always believed about public service is asking yourself if you’ve left the country in better shape than you found it,” Biden said. “Today, I can say, with every fiber of my being, the answer to that question is a resounding yes.”

Biden also encouraged the laid-off staffers to remain politically active and engaged, stating, “You’re not going anywhere, kid, because we’re not gonna let you”.

The layoffs and the accompanying fallout have added tension to the Democratic Party’s post-election transition. DNC Chair Jaime Harrison has announced he will not seek re-election, sparking a race to determine new leadership. Among the candidates vying for the position are former Maryland Governor Martin O’Malley, Wisconsin Democratic Party leader Ben Wikler, and Minnesota Democratic Chair Ken Martin.

The next chair will be chosen in February during the DNC’s winter meeting at National Harbor in Maryland, as the party seeks to regroup and redefine its direction following its 2024 election defeat.

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