On Oct. 29, 2024, vice president candidate Tim Walz came to Columbus, Georgia as the main guest of a Harris-Walz rally here at the Columbus Trade Center.
Polarization of the presidential election is prevalent, especially here in Georgia. With the usually- staunchly-red state turning blue for the 2020 election for the first time since 1992 as well as the fallout from the early voting turnout from the previous election, our state has been at the forefront of political discourse and discussion. The Harris-Walz rally here in Columbus shows evidence of Georgia’s importance and sway on the national stage.
Pro-Trump protestors congregated along the perimeter of the Trade Center, waving flags and engaging in chants supporting their causes. Cars donning large Trump-Vance flags were also spotted around the area. Police were present to monitor the situation for both sides’ safeties.
Security for the event was thorough, with guests needing to RSVP to ensure a speedy entry. Security guards operating metal detectors searched through purses and bags in front of Secret Service personnel.
However, the safety measures set in place did little to deter excited sentiments inside the event. Volunteers were busy handing out pro-Harris material to the attendees, who waved and displayed them proudly throughout the event. The event swiftly filled to capacity. The enthusiasm was palpable as guest speakers began to deliver their speeches.
The introducing speakers were all locally based: House representatives Debbie Buckner and Carolyn Hugley as well as congressman Sanford Bishop. All were adamant about attendees not only going out to vote, but convincing friends and family members to as well.
“We must vote like our lives depend on it,” Sanford Bishop (D) declared, “because they do!”
Tim Walz was greeted with a rally of cries and cheers as he came onto stage. He first explained that this was his second time in Columbus, the first when he came to Fort Moore for the start of his military career. He then went on to appeal to the crowd:
“You came here for one reason,” Walz said, “you love your country.”
In his speech, Walz particularly focused on issues pertaining to the economy and abortion. Regarding the economy, he focused both on his qualms with Trump’s plan as well as the way a Harris-Walz leadership would benefit the middle class. Walz claimed they would put limits on “price-gougers” the market, give $6,000 in tax credit for “every child” in a family, and respond to the housing crisis by both helping build new houses and providing $25,000 dollars in downpayment assistance.
On the topic of abortion, he reiterated that Trump’s Supreme Court additions led to the decision to repeal Roe v. Wade. He then took a moment to speak directly to the men of the room, telling them that the women around them — their wives, daughters, mothers — have “their lives at stake” in this election.
As Walz concluded his speech, applause rang throughout the building. Spirits were high among participants after the rally.
Melissa Sprayberry and Catherine van Ettes, relatives to local House candidate Carl Sprayberry, showed enthusiasm about what the rally represented. Ms. Sprayberry said it was “wonderful.” Ms. van Ettes cited Trump’s lackluster response to the pandemic, as well as a tragic death of a family member from COVID, as one of her reasons for voting for Harris this November.
“I am getting everyone I know to vote!” she declared.
Lorraine Pitts, a volunteer for the Harris-Walz campaign, saw the rally as proper recognition not just for Columbus but for Georgia as a new swing state. “It was a reward for him to come here and acknowledge that.”
Alyson Flores traveled to Columbus to view the rally and said the speech from vice presidential candidate Walz was very encouraging. “The room was electric, and I’m so glad we came.”
Supporters and attendees of the Walz rally overall reported it being a wonderful experience, saying they felt re-energized afterwards.
No matter how one feels about either candidate, Georgia is now seen as a major player in deciding who receives the honor of being our nation’s leader. This may very well not be the last time a nominee comes to Columbus seeking support.
Naturally, this article is being released after the election. On Nov. 5, 2024, former president Donald Trump was reelected to be our next president in what may have been one of the most contentious races we have seen as a country. Many people may be happy with the end results, but many may feel a level of despair and hopelessness coming out of this race. For those that do feel this way: as Kamala Harris recommends in her concession speech, it is time to “roll up our sleeves.” In our society, citizens’ abilities to protest, voice their concerns and act in their communities is essential. It is paramount for citizens concerned about the acts of any president — past, present or future — to make these opinions heard in a peaceful and representative manner.
