Harris pledges to 'chart a new way forward' as she formally accepts Democratic nomination

Kamala Harris has accepted the Democratic presidential nomination with a sweeping, pointed speech in which she vowed to prosecute the case against Donald Trump and carry the country to a brighter and fairer future.

- Joan E Greve

In an address that balanced optimism with scathing criticism of her opponent, Harris acknowledged her "unlikely" path to the nomination and extended her hand to voters of all political ideologies who believe in the US's promise. Harris would make history if elected - as the first woman, first black woman and first Asian American woman to serve as president but she instead focused on the history that the country could change in November.

"Our nation, with this election, has a precious, fleeting opportunity to move past the bitterness, cynicism and divisive battles of the past, a chance to chart a new way forward - not as members of any one party or faction, but as Americans," Harris told thousands of Democrats in Chicago.

She then said to roaring applause:

"On behalf of everyone whose story could only be written in the greatest nation on Earth, I accept your nomination for president of the United States of America."

Harris's speech came one month after the US vice-president launched her campaign, following Joe Biden's withdrawal from the race.

With the president's endorsement, Harris was able to quickly consolidate Democrats' support and secure the nomination. She has enjoyed a wave of enthusiasm since entering the race, as most polls now show her pulling slightly ahead of Trump in the key battleground states that will determine the outcome of the election.