Oprah Winfrey made a surprise appearance at the 2024 Democratic National Convention, delivering a passionate speech that slammed former President Trump and his running mate and called for decency, respect, and common sense in leadership.
In a rousing address on the third night of the Democratic National Convention, talk show icon Oprah Winfrey emerged from the shadows to deliver a forceful denunciation of former President Trump and his vice presidential candidate, Sen. JD Vance (R-Ohio). Winfrey's appearance sent shockwaves through the convention hall, with attendees erupting in thunderous applause.
Oprah at the DNC: Decency and Common Sense Will Triumph in 2024
"We know all the old tricks and tropes that are designed to distract us from what actually matters," Winfrey told the crowd at the United Center. "But we are beyond ridiculous tweets and lies and foolery."
Winfrey launched into a blistering critique of Trump's divisive rhetoric and policies, contrasting them with the values of decency, respect, and common sense that she believes are essential for leadership.
Oprah at the DNC: Decency and Common Sense Will Triumph in 2024
"These are complicated times, people, and they require adult conversation," Winfrey said. "And I welcome those conversations because civilized debate is vital to democracy, and it is the best of America."
In a thinly veiled jab at Trump, Winfrey emphasized the importance of voting and participating in the democratic process.
Oprah at the DNC: Decency and Common Sense Will Triumph in 2024
"Now, there's a certain candidate that says if we just go to the polls this one time, that we'll never have to do it again," Winfrey said. "Well, you know what? 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. Voting is the best of America."
Winfrey also took aim at Trump's running mate, Sen. JD Vance, who has faced criticism for his comments about "childless cat ladies."
Oprah at the DNC: Decency and Common Sense Will Triumph in 2024
"When a house is on fire, we don't ask about the homeowners' race or religion," Winfrey said. "We don't wonder who their partner is or how they voted no. We just try to do the best we can to save them. And if the place happens to belong to a childless cat lady, well, we try to get that cat out, too. 'Cause we are a country of people who work hard for the money. We wish our brothers and sisters well. And we pray for peace."
Shortly after Winfrey's speech, the Trump campaign released a thank-you letter that Winfrey had written to Trump in 2000, in which she praised his business acumen and suggested that he would make a good president.
In response, Winfrey acknowledged that she had once held Trump in high esteem but had since come to realize the error of her ways.
"I might have thought it back then," Winfrey said in a 2023 interview. "I might have thought it 23 years ago."
Winfrey closed her speech with an impassioned plea for decency and common sense in leadership.
"Most of all," Winfrey said, "in leadership and in life, you know, this is true, that decency and respect are on the ballot in 2024. And, and just plain common sense over loyalty to any individual."
