HOUSTON, Texas (KTRK) — Vice President Kamala Harris will visit Houston as part of her recent takeover of the Democratic bid for the White House. She will be the keynote speaker on Thursday at the American Federation of Teachers’ (AFT) convention, which started on Monday.
Tom Abrahams confirmed Harris’ appearance. The White House noted that this is her second Texas visit this month, following a keynote address in Dallas.
Harris’ last visit to Houston was for a Congressional Hispanic Caucus event in November of the previous year.
The AFT’s 3,500 delegates quickly endorsed Harris after President Joe Biden decided not to seek reelection.
“The American people have a great choice in Kamala Harris for President,” AFT President Randi Weingarten told. “We need to stand together on behalf of democracy, human rights, and economic rights for working people.”
Harris’ visit to the city, home to the state’s largest school district, coincides with ongoing legislative battles over education funding. Houston ISD is entering its second full school year under Texas Education Agency control.
The previous Trump administration supported school choice, a contentious policy that critics argue undermines public education. Republican Governor Greg Abbott continues to prioritize this issue in the upcoming Texas Legislature session.
According to the White House, Harris’ appearance is part of her ongoing campaign to support workers and unions.
