CHICAGO – In a surprising move, former Republican presidential candidate Vivek Ramaswamy made an appearance at the Democratic National Convention before Vice President Kamala Harris delivered her highly anticipated acceptance speech. Ramaswamy's presence at the event raised eyebrows, but his purpose was clear: to challenge Democrats and offer a contrasting vision.
During his visit, Ramaswamy held a public conference, open to both the press and attendees, where he laid out what he described as an “alternative vision” aligned with the America First movement and former President Donald Trump. In an interview with The Hill, Ramaswamy explained, “It was to call on Kamala Harris to offer her own vision. Let's see if she does it tonight.”
Ramaswamy also used the opportunity to criticize Democrats for linking Trump to the Heritage Foundation's Project 2025, a plan he claimed the opposition was turning into a scare tactic. “They've turned Project 2025 into the equivalent of this boogeyman, like they had of Russian interference in the 2016 election,” he remarked during an appearance on NewsNation. “That's what they're trying to create, this false boogeyman. I think it's falling flat.”
He further stressed that both candidates have a duty to present clear policy proposals to the American public. “Donald Trump's done it. You may agree or not, but at least he's given you clear policy proposals. Kamala hasn't done it,” Ramaswamy said, pointing out that while Democrats frequently referenced Project 2025 during their convention, their own policy agenda remained vague.
In addition to his media appearances, Ramaswamy spent time interacting with protesters in Chicago. “The beauty of this country is you get to express your opinion, whether or not I agree with it, you get to express your opinion,” he said, noting that he engaged with the demonstrators outside the convention.
“We're not in this just to lead the people who agree with us. We're in this to lead an entire country,” Ramaswamy added. “And that's what I wanted to show by being here – we believe in open debate. We can do it respectfully. You can do it peacefully.”
A prominent entrepreneur and conservative commentator, Ramaswamy rose to political prominence with his critiques of corporate “wokeism” and his staunch support for America First policies. Though his presidential campaign ultimately did not succeed, Ramaswamy remains a significant voice within the Republican Party, often aligning himself with former President Trump's policy positions.
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