Vice Presidential Pool Reports of April 8, 2024

VP travel report #1 - remarks begin in North Philadelphia

Vice President Kamala Harris began her remarks at the William Cramp elementary school in North Philadelphia at 4:57 p.m.

VP was joined for a panel discussion with U.S. Rep. Dwight Evans of Philadelphia and several Philadelphia school and city employees to discuss President Biden's renewed proposal for federal student loan debt relief.

VP began by praising the country's public servants, including teachers who "care and understand the strength and importance of lifting other people up" despite not being paid what they deserve.

Vp travel report #2 - debt relief for public servants

VP thanked teachers, social workers, and nurses - public servants who have benefitted from student loan debt relief. She said the Biden administration was offering relief to incentivize these employees to continue their work.

Public servants received an average of $70,000 in debt relief each in the administration's initial effort.

Vp travel pool report #3 - borrower stories

VP listened with empathetic nods as two Philadelphia public servants shared their experiences with student loan debt.

Kelli Gray, a childrens social worker, shared a tearful story about her loans, which ballooned to over $300,000 as she pursued education degrees.

"My student debt story is like everyone else's," Gray said. "I knew I wanted a better life for myself and twin daughters."

The public servant who works with the Department of Human Services was moved in February after learning debt had been relieved under the Biden administration's actions.

"I just want everyone to know there's help out there," Gray said. "Whatever program there is, apply."

Harris said that everyone benefits when these types of workers stay in their jobs.

"You shouldn't have to make a decision whether you serve or be able to pay your bills," Harris said.

Vp travel pool #4 - Democratic Committee appearance

VP motorcade arrived at a South Philadelphia union hall around 6:35 to make a special appearance at Philadelphia's Democratic City Committee cocktail party.

"Who are we gonna win for? Biden Harris" said Mayor Cherelle L. Parker as she warmed the crowd up for VP.

VP travel pool #5 - 2024 election

VP left the banquet hall for the Philadelphia Airport to return to Washington at 7:00 p.m.

Her speech, which touched frequently on the stakes of the 2024 election, ended with chants of "Four More Years" from the crowded room where booze and cocktail snacks were flowing.

You all in Philadelphia.. in Pennsylvania are killing it," Harris said, citing the recent elections of Gov. Josh Shapiro and Sen. John Fetterman. You are on a winning streak like we have not seen."

VP later touched on the importance of abortion access, mentioning her disapproval of Trumps remarks on the subject from earlier today.

"This is the one," Harris said. "This is the election where we each are being presented with a question, which is what kind of country do we want to live in?"

"We each have the power to determine the outcome of this moment," Harris added.