Kamala Harris will deliver a post-election message to Maryland students

WASHINGTON (AP) — Kamala Harris will speak to students in Maryland on Tuesday in what will likely be her most extensive remarks since losing the election to Donald Trump.

A White House official said the Democratic vice president would focus on how politicians should present an optimistic vision for the future, something she spoke about frequently during the campaign.

It is unclear what Harris’ next steps will be after her term ends. Harris could try to position herself as the leader of the anti-Trump opposition. There is also speculation that she could run for governor of her home state of California, where the next election will take place in 2026.

At 60, Harris probably has a few more acts in public life, perhaps even another run for president. But she could face stiff competition from other Democratic politicians and fatigue from voters looking to move on after a dispiriting campaign ended with Trump’s victory.

With Republicans taking control of the White House and both chambers of Congress, Democrats are still trying to find the best path forward for their party.

Based on plans for her speech Tuesday in Prince George’s County, Harris envisions a path very similar to the message of her candidacy and vice presidency.

While serving under President Joe Biden, Harris toured college campuses and focused on issues that resonate with students, such as gun violence and climate change. She also made sure to meet young people abroad in Africa and Asia while working on U.S. diplomatic efforts.

During the presidential campaign, Harris often spoke about her love for Generation Z and the importance of emerging leaders. It was one of the ways she tried to create a contrast with Trump, who is 78 years old.

However, Harris did worse with young people this year than Biden did four years ago. She won 51% of voters aged 18 to 29, compared with 61% for Biden, according to AP VoteCast, a survey of the electorate.