WASHINGTON (DC News Now) — The District is gearing up for another high-profile political event on the National Mall just days before the presidential election.
Vice President Kamala Harris, the Democratic nominee for President, is set to speak on the Ellipse, just south of the White House, this coming Tuesday.
The National Parks Service (NPS) confirmed to DC News Now that the Harris campaign will be issued their permit for the event.
In their application, the Harris campaign predicted a crowd of 7,500 people on the National Mall for her “closing argument” speech. Recent Harris rallies have drawn crowds in the tens of thousands at arenas nationwide.
The last time a major political figure spoke at the Ellipse was then-President Donald Trump on January 6, 2021. The insurrection that followed is still fresh in the minds of voters and has been a hot topic during debates and rallies this election cycle, nearly four years later.
“I’m a little uneasy about [another big event here] with what’s going on globally. It’s a very important election coming up,” said one Maryland resident, who didn’t want to be identified. “The aftermath of the election is actually what I’m most afraid of.”
“In this day and age, you never know, wherever you go, if it’s going to be safe,” said Virginia voter Austin Harris. “The country is in turmoil right now, we’re battling side versus side when everybody needs to come together.”
As for what happens after the election, law enforcement agencies in the District have confirmed to DC News Now that they’ve been working together for months to get ready, with post-election and inauguration safety plans in the works.
