Kamala Harris Rallies Supporters in Columbia, Criticizes 'Feckless' Congress and 'Incompetent' Administration

The former vice president reprised her campaign message of hope and joy during a stop on her book tour, while also taking aim at the current political landscape.

Apr. 17, 2026 at 11:05am

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A cinematic painting depicting Kamala Harris standing alone in a dimly lit political office, with warm, diagonal sunlight and deep shadows creating a contemplative, nostalgic mood.In the aftermath of her 2024 presidential campaign, Kamala Harris reflects on the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead for her political future.Columbia Today

Former Vice President Kamala Harris visited Columbia, South Carolina, as part of her book tour for '107 Days,' which chronicles her experience running for president in 2024. During the event, Harris addressed the challenges she faced in her campaign, including the short timeframe to get her message across. While she ultimately lost to President Donald Trump, Harris' campaign was marked by a message of joy that still resonated with many attendees. Harris also used the event to criticize the 'feckless' Congress and the 'most corrupt, callous, and incompetent' Trump administration, warning that 'things will get worse before they get better' but encouraging everyone to vote in the upcoming Midterm elections.

Why it matters

Harris' visit to Columbia highlights the continued interest and support for her political career, even after her unsuccessful 2024 presidential run. Her message of hope and her willingness to criticize the current political landscape could have implications for the 2028 election cycle, as Democrats look to regain control of the White House.

The details

During the event, Harris addressed some of the challenges she faced in the 2024 election, including the short timeframe to get her message across to voters. Despite ultimately losing to President Donald Trump, Harris' campaign was marked by a message of joy and hope that still resonated with many attendees. Harris also used the event to criticize the 'feckless' Congress and the 'most corrupt, callous, and incompetent' Trump administration, warning that 'things will get worse before they get better' but encouraging everyone to vote in the upcoming Midterm elections.

  • The event took place on Thursday, April 17, 2026 in Columbia, South Carolina.

The players

Kamala Harris

The former vice president who ran for president in 2024 and is currently on a book tour for '107 Days,' which chronicles her experience during that campaign.

Kardea Brown

A Charleston native and host of 'Delicious Miss Brown' on the Food Network, who moderated the event.

Talia Adkins

A 22-year-old attendee who expressed her appreciation for Harris' representation as a Black woman in politics.

Laurie Robinson

An attendee who was 'crushed' when Harris lost the 2024 election and hoped to be inspired by her again.

Rogers Pender

Laurie Robinson's friend, who praised Harris' grace and dignity in her 2024 campaign.

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What they’re saying

“As a Black woman, having her run and having that representation has been amazing. Especially in this political climate right now, having someone coming out and showing up for us, especially in South Carolina and with what we're dealing with in these times, it gives us hope.”

— Talia Adkins

“She gave me such hope, and then when she didn't win I was just crushed. So I just want to hear her again, and maybe she'll lift me up and inspire me again.”

— Laurie Robinson

“She stepped up for her country and she did it with such grace and dignity, and I was so hopeful that we would finally break that (glass) ceiling.”

— Rogers Pender

What’s next

Harris has not confirmed whether she will run for the Democratic nomination again in 2028, but her continued engagement with voters and criticism of the current administration suggest she may be considering another bid for the presidency.

The takeaway

Harris' visit to Columbia highlights the enduring appeal of her message of hope and joy, even after her unsuccessful 2024 campaign. Her willingness to criticize the 'feckless' Congress and 'incompetent' Trump administration could resonate with voters looking for a change in leadership, potentially setting the stage for another run at the White House in the future.