Bill Clinton Visits Columbus to Rally Support for Harris-Walz Campaign

By Janell Williams

"Fired up, ready to go!" This chant filled the air on Monday, Oct. 14, as Columbus residents gathered in front of the Georgia Democratic Headquarters to welcome local Democratic politicians, including former President Bill Clinton.

Speaking to a crowd of local supporters and Democratic activists, Clinton emphasized the stakes of the upcoming election, focusing on issues such as healthcare, the economy and voting rights.

“Georgia is one of several states that could decide the election and we can win them all,” Clinton said, referencing the state’s pivotal role in both the 2020 presidential election and the 2021 Senate runoffs. “I believe Kamala Harris will be a fine president.”

The event was held at the Columbus Democratic Party Headquarters drawing hundreds of enthusiastic attendees from across the region. Many were eager to hear Clinton’s perspective on the campaign’s key issues and his thoughts on the direction of the Democratic Party.

Clinton praised Harris and Walz for their focus on unity and bipartisanship, citing their experience and leadership.

"Kamala Harris has spent her career fighting for justice and equality, and Tim Walz understands the concerns of working families,” Clinton said. “Together, they represent the best of what America can be."

Columbus residents were eager to meet their politicians, share their perspectives on the impacts they've made and express the importance of voter education.

"I've done my research over the past few months and have been looking into both candidates," said Columbus resident M.J. Scott.

Throughout his remarks, Clinton emphasized the importance of voter turnout, especially in Georgia, where elections have become highly competitive.

"Early voting begins tomorrow. If you decide you’ve got something better to do for the next few days you’ll regret it for the rest of your life," Clinton said, urging the crowd to stay engaged in the process.

Following his speech, Clinton took time to meet with local Democratic leaders and campaign volunteers, thanking them for their work on behalf of the Harris-Walz ticket. Many in attendance expressed excitement over Clinton’s appearance, noting that it brought a sense of momentum to the campaign in Georgia.

"Right now, we're dealing with several aspects that are going to change the face of the United States, and those include women's rights and, of course, democracy," said Columbus resident Aslean Florence. "Because when we, as people of color, when our votes don't count, it makes a difference. Years ago, we were told our votes didn't count; now they are telling us we can exercise the right, but the action won't be acknowledged."

The Harris-Walz campaign has been focusing significant resources on the state, hoping to replicate the success of the 2020 election when Georgia flipped blue for the first time in nearly three decades. Clinton’s visit is part of a broader effort to energize the Democratic base and appeal to swing state voters ahead of the November election.

Georgia remains a crucial swing state, and with polls showing a tight race, both parties are pouring resources into voter outreach and mobilization efforts.

As Clinton concluded his visit, he reminded the crowd: “We've got a race to win.” The crowd responded by shouting: "Fired up, ready to go!"