Viola Davis narrates Kamala Harris’ new ad titled “Mother” with Beyoncé’s “Freedom.” It’s a closing argument ad, the latest in a string of Democrats turning to celebrities for voiceovers in the final days of the 2024 election cycle, followed by George Clooney’s version of a recent ad targeting men who don’t want to admit that they voted for Harris.
This new ad tells the story of Harris’ mother and introduces Kamala as part of her mother’s legacy. The opening screen displaying the title also evokes the cultural trend of naming a prominent figure “mom,” perhaps in a deliberate attempt to associate Harris with the notion of young voters.
The ad also focuses on a positive message, avoiding any mention of Donald Trump.
“Something opens up inside of you when you become a mother,” Davis begins to open up the space. “You realize that long after you’re gone, these children will be your legacy.”
Cut to a shot of Kamala’s mother, Shyamala: “This mom came to America when she was 19 years old. She was five feet tall, but she persevered: She became a cancer researcher and gave birth to two daughters: Kamala and Maya.
Davis emphasizes: “She brought her legacy with her,” he says. “She taught them to believe in themselves and stand up for others.”
The ad focuses on Harris’ career.
Davis says: “This is what made Kamala a prosecutor who fought for justice, an attorney general who held corporations accountable to protect workers, and a senator and vice president who stood up for women’s rights.”
“Now, at this moment, Kamala Harris has a new path forward,” the narrative continues as it moves on to expose Harris’ politics, with Beyoncé’s “Freedom” chorus joining in the moment.
“She says every worker should be able to afford dignity. Davis says: “You have a point,” as photos of Harris and his deputy Tim Walz are interspersed with shots of families. “Every generation has to do better than the one before it. That’s your legacy. “Every American should be able to buy a home, start a business, save enough to invest.”
Davis says as the ad closes with a video of crowds dodging Harris: “It’s time for a new generation of leadership, a generation of optimism and belief in a better future for all Americans.” “This daughter of Shyamala, this daughter of American history, is ready to lead us forward.”
The simple closing image is a bold white text on a black background that reads: “Vote by Nov. 5. Harris Falls.”
You can watch the full ad in the video above.