Vice President Harris should be prepared to deliver a forceful message that peaceful protest is patriotic and protected under our constitution. She should cite examples from the past that underscore the righteous role that free speech has played in making significant progress for America.

At the same time, she absolutely must speak with force and authority, that violence will absolutely not be tolerated. This may well be her "Sister Souljah" moment, where she silences the doubters and wins over the moderates and independents who may have been questioning her resolve and commitment to the rule of law. This is not only the proper thing to do, it makes for excellent politics. The GOP desperately want the convention to descend into violent street protests and anarchy, as they make the case that Democrats lack the spine to keep order. 

By now, Harris should have the short speech in-hand, and crafted for maximum effect. I'd be shocked if she hasn't been practicing it in front of her closest advisors. This challenge is a gift that rarely arrives at such an opportune time. If she delivers as a leader should, Trump will fume like we haven't seen him, her poll numbers will rise further, and we'll look back on the moment as an immense election inflection point. 

Peter T.