Oprah Winfrey Calls For ‘Unity’ In Surprise DNC Speech

Oprah Winfrey delivered a stirring speech at the Democratic National Convention Wednesday night, emphasizing unity while subtly criticizing the former president and his running mate.

Winfrey, a registered independent, urged voters to reject divisive rhetoric and embrace shared values. She warned against those who “seek first to divide and then to conquer,” without directly naming any politicians.

The television icon drew attention to the importance of community spirit, using the metaphor of a burning house to illustrate how Americans come together in times of crisis, regardless of political affiliations or personal differences.

In an apparent reference to comments made by the GOP V.P. candidate in 2021, Winfrey quipped about rescuing cats belonging to childless women, adding a touch of humor to her serious message.

Without mentioning the former president by name, Winfrey criticized “ridiculous tweets and lies and foolery.” She also addressed recent controversial statements about Christian voters, reaffirming her commitment to participating in the democratic process.

“You’re looking at a registered independent who’s proud to vote again and again and again, because I’m an American, and that’s what Americans do,” Winfrey declared.

The speech aimed to sway undecided voters towards Vice President Kamala Harris and her running mate, Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz. Winfrey emphasized the importance of “values and character” in leadership, arguing that “decency and respect” are at stake in the upcoming election.

Winfrey called on Americans to choose “loyalty to the Constitution over loyalty to any individual,” and to embrace optimism, inclusion, and common sense. She concluded by urging voters to prioritize freedom, which she described as “the best of America.”

This marks a significant political engagement for Winfrey, who chose not to publicly support any politicians. Until 2008, when she supported Barack Obama. After that, she also supported Hillary Clinton in 2016 and the president in 2020.

Gayle King, co-host of CBS Mornings and a close friend of Winfrey, commented on Winfrey’s decision to speak at the convention. “She hadn’t intended to be involved, to be honest with you, she tries to stay out of politics,” King said. “She’d always tried to stay out of the political fray, and I think now the thinking is, for her, she feels there’s a lot at stake.”