WASHINGTON − In her most detailed comments following her election defeat, Kamala Harris urged supporters to “remain engaged” as discouraged Democrats prepare for Donald Trump’s return to the White House.

Speaking to high school and college students in Largo, Maryland, on Tuesday, Harris expressed that she has received countless letters from Americans from “all walks of life” since Trump decisively won the November election with a 312-226 Electoral College victory. The Republican Party also regained control of the Senate and secured a narrow majority in the House.

“While there is disappointment, there is also determination for what lies ahead,” Harris stated during her 15-minute speech, emphasizing that “no one should turn away” from upcoming battles concerning equality, freedom, and economic justice for the working class. “We need to stay in this fight, as it is our duty as Americans to do so.”

Harris faced defeat after a brief 107-day campaign that began when she took over as the Democratic nominee from President Joe Biden. Alongside Hillary Clinton, she became one of the two major-party female candidates for president in U.S. history, both ultimately losing to Trump. The election highlighted the Democratic Party’s difficulties in attracting working-class voters without college degrees.

Trump, taking office on January 20, is anticipated to issue executive orders to overturn several of Biden’s initiatives, particularly in areas such as immigration and climate policy.

Harris highlighted the resilience Americans have shown during challenging times throughout history. “The struggles for civil rights, women’s rights, and workers’ rights, as well as the very foundation of our nation, would not exist if people had given up after setbacks in courts, fights, or elections,” she remarked.

“The real test of our dedication is whether we throw up our hands in frustration or roll up our sleeves in response to obstacles,” she added.

At 60, Harris has not disclosed her future plans after departing from the White House. She is speculated as a potential candidate for California governor in 2026, when Gov. Gavin Newsom’s term ends, or she might consider a second run for president in 2028, as Democrats prepare for a race without a clear frontrunner.

Although Harris did not mention Trump by name during her speech, she addressed themes that she previously highlighted while campaigning to differentiate herself from the soon-to-be president.

She emphasized that America thrives when led by principles of “dignity and decency, fairness, freedom, and equal opportunity for all,” and noted that “the true strength of a leader is measured not by how they defeat others but by how they uplift those around them.”

Harris also conveyed a message to the young audience, affirming that their impatience for change is justified, and that they embody “the very best of America,” seen throughout her campaign, her time as vice president, and her life.

She concluded her speech by advising them to take time to recharge during the holidays so that they can return “ready to confront the future.”

“Keep your heads high, shoulders back, and always be eager for change,” she encouraged.