Kamala Harris to Keynote Democratic Women Event in California

San Francisco, California — Former Vice President Kamala Harris will return to the public eye this week with a keynote address at an annual gathering of Democratic women officials. The event, hosted by Emerge, is set for Wednesday, just one day after President Donald Trump‘s reelection.

Emerge focuses on recruiting, training, and supporting Democratic women who aspire to hold elected office. The organization reported an uptick in interest, noting nearly 1,000 women have expressed a desire to run following Trump’s victory.

“Vice President Harris is the original Emerge woman,” said A’shanti F. Gholar, CEO of Emerge. “She continues to be a champion for Emerge and an advocate for elevating women in elected office.”

Emerge was established during Harris’ campaign for San Francisco district attorney in the early 2000s when her team recognized the need to empower women in politics. The program now boasts over 1,200 alumnae serving in various governmental roles.

Among the speakers at Emerge’s 20th anniversary gala, notable alumnae include Rep. Abigail Spanberger, who is campaigning for governor of Virginia, and Michigan State Sen. Mallory McMorrow, who is seeking a Senate seat.

Earlier this month, Harris drew attention at the Leading Women Defined Summit, warning of the risks of a second Trump presidency. “There were many things we knew would happen,” she stated, adding with a laugh, “I’m not here to say I told you so.”

This week’s keynote will mark her most extensive remarks since leaving office. During her speech, Harris is expected to honor Emerge’s legacy while delivering a critical analysis of Trump’s economic policies. She previously remarked, “Courage is contagious” while inspiring women to take action.

Harris is also evaluating her political future, contemplating a run for governor of California in 2026 or a second bid for the presidency in 2028. Discussions among her advisers indicate it may be challenging for her to pursue both paths simultaneously.