Los Angeles: Harris WNBA pep talk draws criticism | JQJO

Los Angeles — Former Vice President Kamala Harris faced criticism after delivering a motivational speech to the WNBA’s Los Angeles Sparks over the weekend in Los Angeles. Harris told the players they were making an “incredible impact” on the country and said that young girls, boys and people of every gender and racial background watch the league and find it inspiring. She urged the team to “keep doing what you’re doing,” saying they were influencing people they might never meet, including those who may never know the players’ or her name but still draw a sense of their own value and dignity from watching them.

Los Angeles — Harris also congratulated the Sparks not only for their game but for “the path you guys are charting,” calling it extraordinary to watch. Critics on the right seized on the appearance, portraying her remarks as another example of what they called “word salad” and arguing her comments made “zero sense,” according to Outkick founder Clay Travis. Former University of Kentucky swimmer Riley Gaines questioned whether Harris’ visit drew the same level of scrutiny that conservative officials have faced for appearing with sports teams, while social media users derided Harris’ speech and reiterated their opposition to her political career.