Harris tells DNC staffers after devastating layoffs, ‘our spirit will not be defeated’

Vice President Kamala Harris delivered a message of hope and resilience to Democratic staffers facing layoffs from the DNC during the organization’s holiday celebration in Washington, D.C. on Sunday. With President Biden and First Lady Jill Biden by her side, Harris acknowledged the challenges faced by those who were let go without severance packages after the election, but emphasized that their spirit will not be defeated.

In her speech, Harris urged the staffers to celebrate the blessings they have and to remain committed to the fight for their country. She highlighted the hard work and dedication they had put into their roles and reassured them that their spirit could never be defeated. “Our spirit is not defeated. We are not defeated. Let’s be clear about that. We are strong. We are clear about why we are in this. And because you’re here right now, I say again, thank you,” she said.

President Biden echoed Harris’s sentiments, praising the staffers for their dedication and emphasizing that the country is in a better position today than when they first entered office. He encouraged them to stay engaged in the years ahead and vowed to support them in their endeavors. “You’re not going anywhere, kid, because we’re not gonna let you,” Biden said.

Despite the layoffs sparking frustration among some DNC staffers, who criticized the lack of severance packages and benefits, the party remains focused on moving forward. DNC Chair Jaime Harrison has announced that he will not seek re-election, opening the door for a new leader to take the reins. Candidates vying for the position include former Maryland governor Martin O’Malley, Wisconsin Democratic Party leader Ben Wikler, and Minnesota Democrats chair Ken Martin.

As the Democratic Party looks to the future, Harris’s message of resilience and determination serves as a reminder that their work must continue. The DNC winter meeting in February will provide an opportunity for the party to come together and chart a path forward. With a new leader on the horizon and a renewed sense of purpose, the DNC remains committed to fighting for the values and ideals that unite them.