During her first public address since leaving office, former Vice President Kamala Harris urged Democrats to emulate elephants at an event in San Francisco, using a story about elephants at the San Diego Zoo during an earthquake as a metaphor for unity and protection of the vulnerable. Harris criticized President Trump's first 100 days in office and highlighted the dangers of division, encouraging Democrats to stay united and support one another in times of crisis. The metaphor was intended to illustrate the power of collective strength and the importance of standing together rather than scattering in fear. Her remarks, however, drew mixed reactions on social media, with some mocking the analogy as bizarre and out of context. Harris did not address speculation about her potential run for the California governorship during her speech at the Emerge organization event, which aims to prepare Democratic women for political office.

Kamala Harris, in her speech at the Emerge 20th Anniversary Gala, urged Democrats to act like elephants, referencing a video of elephants at the San Diego Zoo during an earthquake that circled together to protect the vulnerable.

The speech marked Harris's first public address since her 2024 electoral defeat, where she expressed strong criticism of President Trump's initial 100 days in office, addressing the audience with an 'angry and negative' tone.

Her metaphor of elephants was used to emphasize unity and protection against divisive tactics, suggesting that Democrats should remain united and strong in the face of those who seek to incite fear and division.

The story and metaphor were intended to encourage Democrats not to scatter in times of crisis but to connect and reinforce each other, creating a stronger collective force.

Despite the intended message, Harris's analogy was met with ridicule and mockery on social media, with critics finding it awkward and disconnected from the overall context of her speech.

Harris did not mention any intentions of running for governor of California, although such rumors persist, focusing instead on delivering a message of solidarity and unity among Democrats.

The event, organized by Emerge, aimed to train Democratic women for political roles, charging varying entry fees for access, and highlighting the importance of women's representation in politics.