Kamala Harris Urges Gaza Ceasefire Amid Protestor Disruption at Arizona Rally; RNC Optimistic About State Victory

“I have been clear, now is the time to get a ceasefire deal and get the hostage deal done,” Harris said.

GLENDALE, Ariz. — Vice President Kamala Harris and Minnesota Governor Tim Walz held a rally in Arizona’s Desert Diamond Arena on Friday, drawing a sold-out crowd.

The event saw a massive turnout, with the Harris campaign reporting that 15,000 supporters were present. Although tickets were free, attendees had to register for the event.

Minnesota Governor @Tim_Walz expressed his gratitude to the Arizonans for their huge turnout, recognizing the importance of the battleground state.

12News Anchor Brahm Resnik remarked that it was the largest Democratic crowd he had ever witnessed in Arizona.

Before the rally, Harris and Walz visited a campaign office, interacting with volunteers and posing in front of a sign that read “Kamala and Coach.”

Outside the venue, a small group of about five protestors waved MAGA flags and voiced their disapproval of Harris and her policies.

Local leaders like Gila River Indian Community Governor Stephen Roe Lewis, Tempe Mayor Corey Woods, and Phoenix Mayor Kate Gallego, among others, spoke before Harris and Walz took the stage. The crowd exuberantly welcomed Gabby Giffords and Senator Mark Kelly, chanting “Gabby! Gabby! Gabby!”

Mark Kelly endorsed Harris and Walz, emphasizing their potential to move the country forward.

Harris commenced her speech with Beyonce’s “Freedom” and quickly delved into her vision for the country, emphasizing unity and progress.

Pro-Palestinian protestors briefly interrupted her, prompting Harris to reaffirm her commitment to securing a ceasefire and addressing hostage situations.

President Joe Biden later confirmed via social media that he had engaged with Qatari and Egyptian leaders about peace negotiations.

In other news, former President Donald Trump’s plane was diverted to Billings, Montana, due to a mechanical issue while en route to a rally in support of Senate candidate Tim Sheehy. Despite the setback, the former president arrived safely and continued with his campaign plans without mentioning the landing incident.

Responding to Harris’ rally, the Republican National Committee highlighted issues like the economy and border security as top concerns for Arizona voters. The RNC criticized Harris and Biden’s administration for not delivering on their promises to strengthen the middle class and control inflation.

Tommy Pigott, RNC Strategic Communications Director, argued that the administration’s policies have led to higher prices and lower real wages, contrasting this with Trump’s plan for tax breaks and energy price reductions.

The RNC also emphasized that Harris’ claims about Trump cutting Social Security and Medicare were misleading, asserting that he aims to eliminate taxes on Social Security for seniors instead.

Republicans further criticized Harris’ handling of illegal border crossings, claiming the border was more secure during Trump’s tenure.

With Arizona poised to play a crucial role in the upcoming elections, the GOP remains confident that their strategy will secure victory in the state.

This is a developing story. Follow ArizonaNews.org for more updates.