Harris Condemns Pro-Hamas Protest in D.C.

Vice President Kamala Harris faced criticism for a delayed response to violent pro-Hamas protests in Washington, D.C., where demonstrators vandalized property and burned American flags during Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's address to Congress. After nearly 24 hours, Harris condemned the actions as 'despicable' and labeled any association with Hamas as abhorrent, emphasizing that antisemitism and violence have no place in the nation. Her statement came after significant backlash from Republicans and some Democrats who noted her silence on the issue. The protests, which included anti-Israel graffiti and clashes with law enforcement, sparked further debate within the Democratic Party about its stance on Israel and Hamas. Harris's delayed condemnation raises concerns about her ability to navigate the complexities of her party's views as she campaigns for the presidency. Republican leaders have called for accountability for the protestors, while Harris has focused on affirming the right to peaceful protest alongside her condemnation of hate-fueled rhetoric.