what to say in a video cover letter

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9 tips for building an effective video cover letter

Have you been asked to provide a video cover letter don’t stress out or get camera-shy. here's how to put together a winning production..

More IT companies are asking candidates to provide a video cover letter in addition to traditional resume and portfolio. While in some respects you should adhere to the same rules that govern video job interviews, there are some key differences to remember when you’re planning, recording and submitting a video cover letter. Here’s how to make sure your video cover letter hits all the right notes.

“Think of a video cover letter as a ‘movie trailer,’ and your career as a movie. You want to have your trailer be engaging, inviting and interesting and give just enough information that the recruiter or hiring manager will want to know more — they’ll want to see the entire film, so to speak,” says Chris Brown, vice president of human resources at telecommunications and collaboration solutions company West Corporation.

Keep it short

For starters, most video cover letters shouldn’t exceed 60 seconds, Brown says. Think about what’s engaging to you when you watch a video on your smartphone, on the Web. Chances are, the shorter, the better, Brown says. “If it’s longer than about a minute, you’re going to lose the interest of a viewer. You need to find your ‘hook’ and discuss one tangible thing about you that will grab the viewer and make them want to interview you,” he says.

Make a listicle

Pop culture listicle site BuzzFeed is a great example of how to structure your video cover letter. Choose the top five things a recruiter or hiring manager would want to know about you, and stick to that list, Brown says. “You want to aim for three of those points being about your professional life and you can throw in an additional two that are personal — ‘I’m an animal lover and I volunteer at my local shelter,’ or ‘I skydive in my free time,'” Brown says, to add additional interest and show that you’re a well-rounded individual.

Create two versions

As the concept of video cover letters becomes increasingly popular, it makes sense to have more than one available. Create a more generic version and place it on your social media feeds for wider accessibility — on Twitter Moments, Facebook, LinkedIn and even Instagram, Brown says. Bbut also create fresh versions that are tailored to specific job opportunities that can be sent to individual hiring managers or recruiters. “It’s similar to how you’d tailor a written cover letter to each job opportunity. There’s a basic template, but you also want to throw in specifics,” he says.

[ Related Stories: 6 things to leave off your resume ]

Pay attention to hosting

Consider creating a separate YouTube channel dedicated to hosting your professional videos, Brown says. The last thing you want is for your video cover letter to end up in a feed with your family home videos or that GoPro video you made last time you went skydiving. “On a public, personal YouTube channel, there’s also the chance that your friends and family will comment on your videos; do you really want your strange friend Bill making inappropriate comments on your video cover letter? That’s a recipe for disaster,” Brown says.

Create original content

Just like in a traditional, written cover letter, a video cover letter should be original content that adds a new dimension to your resume and allows you the opportunity to highlight your best self. “This is not a regurgitation of your resume. It’s an opportunity to talk about your skills, sure, but I’ve seen some of these in which people are literally just reading from their existing resume. You can touch on that, but it’s the intangibles that matter here; your energy, your personality can come through — that’s what I want to see,” Brown says.

[ Related Stories: How to successfully blend your online and offline personas ]

Watch your language

Just as you would in a written cover letter or resume, use the same words and phrases found in the job description to highlight that you’re perfect for the role. This doesn’t have to sound forced, but it does help a hiring manager or a recruiter ensure that you’re familiar with the industry, the competitive landscape, common programs and systems that are used and the industry jargon, Brown says, “Using that language communicates that you’re an ‘insider,’ and you know the ins-and-outs of the greater landscape.”

You also can add additional comments about the company, prominent employees you’ve seen on the news, new technology they’ve created, and address how you could help contribute to their success, Brown says. This demonstrates that you know the company, its competitors and the IT industry as a whole.

To script, or not to script

Unless you’re incredibly shy or nervous in front of a camera, it’s not necessary to write out and recite a script. A few bullet points to highlight what you want to cover should do just fine, Brown says. “Definitely have a prompt in front of you so that you know what you want to talk about, but don’t script every aspect. Hiring managers and recruiters know that these will be imperfect and you want to show that part of yourself, as well. Make the video cover letter as real and human as possible — a few ‘um’s and ‘uh’s aren’t going to cost you the job,” he says.

[ Related Stories: 6 ways to blow your technical job interview ]

Nail the closing

Any job search involves a certain amount of salesmanship, and in this case, you’re selling your skills, knowledge and expertise to a company. “The Web is full of tutorials on how to do a video sales letter, or VSL, which would be focused on how to sell information products. But think of a video cover letter as a VSL for an individual — the product is you,” says Donald Burns of Executive Promotions, LLC.

Even if you’re not in sales, it’s still important to know how to close, says Brown, “A simple way to do this is to provide an active closing. Say, ‘I look forward to meeting you for an interview,’ or ‘Thank you so much for your time. I absolutely want this job,’ it shows a lot of self-confidence and can be the difference between landing the role or being passed over.”

Don’t overthink it

Finally, don’t overthink it. Human resources, hiring managers and recruiters aren’t infallible, and many times an interview’s success — whether in person or via video — can hinge on completely subjective experiences, regardless of how solid your resume is or how polished your video cover letter is, Brown says.

“Remember, in any interview, video or otherwise, you are dealing with human beings. They’re going to have existing biases based on their experiences with similar people. If they had a bad experience with Fred, and you look or act like Fred, that may not work out for you. If you happen to be like Julie, and they had a great experience with Julie, then that’s great. And sometimes, there’s nothing you can do about that,” Brown says.

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7 Video Editor Cover Letter Examples

Video Editors are masters of weaving together disparate clips to create a cohesive, compelling narrative that captivates audiences. Similarly, your cover letter is your chance to stitch together your professional experiences, skills, and passion into a captivating story that engages recruiters. In this guide, we'll delve into the best cover letter examples for Video Editors, helping you to craft a narrative that leaves a lasting, positive impression.

Cover Letter Examples

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The best way to start a Video Editor cover letter is by grabbing the reader's attention with a strong opening line. This could be a brief statement about your passion for video editing, a notable achievement in your career, or a mention of a project you've admired from the company you're applying to. Then, introduce yourself and state the position you're applying for. It's important to show enthusiasm and make a connection to the company early on. This not only demonstrates your interest in the role, but also shows that you've done your research and are serious about the opportunity.

Video Editors should end a cover letter by summarizing their interest in the position and their qualifications. They should express enthusiasm for the opportunity to contribute their skills and experience to the company. For example, they could say something like, "I am excited about the possibility of bringing my unique perspective and technical expertise to your team. I am confident that my skills as a video editor can help elevate your content to new heights." It's also important to thank the hiring manager for their time and consideration. Lastly, they should include a call to action, such as, "I look forward to the opportunity to further discuss my qualifications in an interview." This ending is professional, enthusiastic, and shows that the candidate is eager to move forward in the hiring process.

A Video Editor's cover letter should ideally be about one page long. This length is enough to succinctly present your skills, experiences, and passion for the job without overwhelming the hiring manager with too much information. Remember, the cover letter is your opportunity to make a strong first impression, so it's important to keep it concise, engaging, and focused on your qualifications and how they align with the job description. Too long of a cover letter can be off-putting for hiring managers who have numerous applications to review.

Writing a cover letter with no experience as a Video Editor can seem challenging, but it's important to remember that everyone starts somewhere. Here's how you can approach it: 1. Start with a Strong Introduction: Begin your cover letter by introducing yourself and expressing your interest in the video editing position. Mention where you saw the job posting and why you are interested in the role. 2. Highlight Relevant Skills: Even if you don't have direct experience in video editing, you may have transferable skills from other areas. For instance, if you have a background in graphic design or photography, you can highlight how these skills can be applied to video editing. If you have experience with software like Adobe Premiere Pro, After Effects, or other video editing tools, be sure to mention this. 3. Showcase Your Education: If you have taken any courses or earned a degree in a related field like film studies, media production, or graphic design, be sure to include this in your cover letter. This shows that you have a foundational understanding of the industry. 4. Include Any Relevant Projects: If you've done any video editing projects on your own, for school, or as a volunteer, be sure to include these. Provide links or attach files if possible. This can serve as your portfolio and provide tangible proof of your skills. 5. Express Your Passion: Employers want to hire people who are passionate about their work. If you love video editing, make sure this comes across in your cover letter. Talk about why you're drawn to this field and how you stay updated with the latest trends and technologies. 6. Show Willingness to Learn: If you're applying for an entry-level position, employers will understand that you may not have a lot of experience. Show your eagerness to learn and grow in the role. You can mention how you're self-taught in certain areas or how you're quick to pick up new skills. 7. Close Strong: End your cover letter by thanking the employer for considering your application and expressing your interest in discussing the position further. Remember, the goal of the cover letter is to get the employer interested enough to look at your resume and invite you for an interview. So, make sure it's well-written

Related Cover Letters for Video Editors

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How to create an impactful video cover letter

If you are seeking a new career or looking for a fresh start with a different company, you might be surprised to learn of an emerging trend in the hiring process: video cover letters. Some businesses are asking applicants to submit these videos along with the usual documents, which can put a face with your resume, making for a more personalized hiring process. If you get asked to submit a cover letter video, here’s everything you need to know.

Understanding the format

If you’ve written a cover letter before, you are in luck, as the basic format of a video cover letter is nearly identical. Your video will need these key components:

• Introduction: Briefly state your name and introduce yourself to the audience
• Body: Dive into your experiences, traits, and attributes 
• Closing: Wrap things up with a respectful and professional conclusion

Sounds easy enough, right? The basic layout is certainly straightforward. However, the key is to be genuine and authentic in your video cover letter. Hiring teams will be paying attention to everything from your tone of voice to your facial expression, demeanor, and overall vibe. 

However, don’t feel like you’ve got to hype yourself up or exaggerate your emotions. If you are a reserved or stoic person, that’s okay, so long as you demonstrate your passion and genuine interest in the position you are applying for. Perhaps most importantly, be confident in your abilities and what you bring to the table. If you are good at something, say so and back up your statement with facts or real-world stories.

Additionally, remember that a cover letter is supposed to complement your resume . The same rule applies when creating a video cover letter. If you are using resume templates , follow the same general flow in your video while minimizing overlap. 

For example, if you mention your education directly after your work experience on your resume, make sure to follow the same pattern in your video. There’s a good chance that hiring teams are going to be following along with your resume while watching your content. Therefore, you need to hit all of the key talking points.

Expert Tip:

Video cover letters provide an opportunity to make your application feel more personal. Don’t just rattle off the information on your resume. Add flair and personality to your video to make your audience believe you are someone they will love working with.

Preparing your video cover letter

Not sure what to say in a video cover letter? That’s understandable, as video cover letters are a relatively new development in the world of hiring. Fortunately, you can make the entire process much less stressful by following a few simple tips. Specifically, you need to: 

Create a script

You don’t want to “wing it” when filming a video cover letter. Create a script that outlines what points you should cover, including an introduction, relevant experiences, skills, and why you are a great fit for the company. Our cover letter templates can provide a general outline for your script. 

Use these tools and our cover letter articles to decide what to include in your script and how long to make your video. Make sure your script is long enough to hit all of the crucial points and provide a glimpse into your personality, but try not to ramble. 

Choose an environment

Hiring teams aren’t just going to be focused on you. They will notice everything that shows up on the screen, including what’s behind you in the video. Therefore, you need to choose a good background that is professional and well-lit. 

If you’ve got a home office space, use that room to film your video cover letter. If not, choose a clutter-free area of your home that has a non-distracting background. 

Alternatively, you can use a digital background. However, make sure that it isn’t distracting. Most importantly, choose somewhere quiet, as you don’t want any background noise interfering with your dialogue. 

Record and edit

What you say and how you say it will have the biggest impact on the quality of your video cover letter. Once you hit record, speak clearly and confidently. Maintain eye contact with the camera, but don’t be robotic or rigid. Imagine that you are speaking directly to your audience in a live interview. 

Be mindful of your tone and overall demeanor. While you shouldn’t embellish, make sure to show enthusiasm for the job and opportunity. If you aren’t excited about the position, why would the hiring team be excited about bringing you on board? 

Also, choose a good-quality recording device. If you have a newer smartphone with a high-resolution camera, that will suffice. Alternatively, you can use your laptop’s webcam or a dedicated blogging camera. 

Once you are satisfied with your video, don’t just hit “submit.” Edit the video to ensure it’s engaging and effectively communicates all of your main points. Make your video concise, limiting it to one to three minutes. However, don’t talk too fast. You should be easy to understand. 

If your video is too long, go back through it and eliminate any unnecessary information. Try to make each cut smooth so that it isn’t obvious. If necessary, film multiple takes. Keep in mind that this is your opportunity to set a great first impression. 

Upload and share

Carefully read the job description and application instructions. Each employer will have their own preferences regarding video uploads and submissions. 

For example, some businesses may ask you to publish the video on YouTube and provide them with a private link. This is one of the easiest options, as you can make your YouTube channel hidden, ensuring that only the link recipients can view the video.

Alternatively, the business may use a specialized Dropbox or submission tool. If they do, make sure you label the file and carefully follow their instructions. Making a mistake during your application can leave a negative first impression on your prospective boss. 

“ Be mindful of your tone and overall demeanor. While you shouldn’t embellish, make sure to show enthusiasm for the job and opportunity.”

Dos and Don’ts

Ready to create your video cover letter? Consider these dos and don’ts that can help you stand out. 

As you begin writing your script and planning your content, ensure that you:

• Stay Authentic and Personable: Show your personality and enthusiasm for the position
• Tailor Your Message to the Company: Research the role you are applying for, and customize the video accordingly 
• Organize Your Points Clearly : Aim for brevity and clarity and avoid rambling
• Demonstrate Your Skills and Accomplishments: Use specific examples to showcase your skills and accomplishments relevant to the job 
• End With a CTA: Always end by expressing your enthusiasm for the opportunity to interview

Encourage follow-up conversations, and don’t end your video on a cliffhanger. Also, make sure to review cover letters and resume examples . These resources will help you get a feel for the type of content that needs to be in your video.  

Don’ts 

Learning what not to do is just as important as mastering the basics. There are many hidden pitfalls that can make your video cover letter less impactful and engaging. Make sure that you don’t:

• Ramble: Avoid reciting your resume verbatim or going off-topic 
• Use Unprofessional Language or Attire: Maintain a professional demeanor and wear business attire 
• Neglect Technical Quality: Consider lighting, sound quality, and the background environment 
• Overlook Editing: Never skip preparation or submit raw video footage 
• Forget to Proofread: Proofread the script for grammatical errors, typos, and factual inaccuracies

Most of all, don’t wing it. You wouldn’t walk into a job interview unprepared. Approach your video cover letter with the same diligence. Write a script, rehearse, and choose a great location, which can increase engagement and reach. 

Use Jobseeker’s resources to craft an engaging video cover letter 

Creating a video cover letter can be a fun but stressful experience. Fortunately, Jobseeker is here to help. We offer access to great resources, including resume articles , video cover letter examples , and personalized support designed to make you stand out in job applications. 

Are you ready to learn more about Jobseeker and how we can support your career goals? Check out our expansive content library or chat with one of our team members. Let’s get you hired! 

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Ace Your Job Application with a Video Cover Letter

Meli Taylor Higher Education

As everyone knows, the job search process is not easy. The job market is highly competitive and it takes a lot to stand out from the competition. As such, you need to make your application unique and memorable in order to draw the attention of your recruiter or hiring manager. You need to include a video cover letter. But what exactly is a video cover letter?

Video Cover Letter Definition

A video cover letter is, quite simply, a cover letter for a job application in video format. A cover letter should accompany your resume by detailing why you’re qualified for the position and how it fits in your career goals. It’s a good space for you to expand upon what is listed in your resume and make the best case for your application. In a video cover letter, you relay this information through audio and video instead of text. A video cover letter is a recording of you speaking about the information you would otherwise have written out in a cover letter. Typically, you provide a link to your video cover letter in your email or application so that your recipient can view it online, side-by-side with your resume.

Check out this sample cover letter video to learn more:

Why Use a Video Cover Letter?

There are many good reasons to use a cover letter video. Video will make your application stand out from the rest of the pack and thus make it more memorable. Additionally, information relayed via video is more likely to be remembered than via text: according to Covideo, 95% of information is remembered in a video vs. just 10% in text. If your reviewer is digging through a lot of applications at once, sending in a video cover letter is the best way to ensure that they remember you. Furthermore, video lets you introduce yourself in a way that’s more personable. With video, you can communicate with non-verbal cues like eye contact, facial expressions, and hand gestures. Your reviewer will be able to put a face to your name after viewing your video cover letter and will have a better understanding of what kind of person and employee you are.

Finally, a video cover letter makes it easier for your reviewer to digest the information you present and connect it with the rest of your application. Your reviewer can watch your video while perusing your resume and match up your qualifications to past experiences. They can easily take notes during your video that they can bring up during an interview. Video cover letters make the experience of sorting through job applications easier and more exciting.

Video Cover Letter Best Practices

To create an effective video cover letter, you need to follow best practices. Fortunately, here at Covideo we have a lot of experience creating videos for business. Here are some things to keep in mind while recording your video cover letter:

• Start by introducing yourself : State your name and what position you’re applying for so your reviewer instantly knows whose application they are watching.
• Use your recipient’s name : If you know who’s going to be reviewing your application, make sure to greet them by name in your video. If you don’t know their name, still say hi and mention the name of the company.
• Find the right lighting : Nothing is worse than recording a video and then discovering your face was washed out! Make sure that you’ve found the perfect lighting before beginning your video. If you don’t have professional lighting, don’t worry – you can place your back to the sun for some excellent natural lighting.
• Smile : Keep the same positive attitude in your video that you would in an interview. Remember: you’re not just emphasizing your skills, you’re demonstrating what kind of person you are.
• Make eye contact : Same as above, maintain eye contact like you would during an interview. This will make your video seem more like a personal conversation and impress your reviewer.
• Keep it 1-2 minutes in length : If you make your video too long, your reviewer may find their attention drifting. A cover letter video should highlight your top qualifications, not provide detailed commentary about your entire professional career. Don’t let it go longer than 1-2 minutes in length.
• Don’t worry about little mistakes : If you briefly misspeak or add in a few “ums”, you don’t have to re-record everything. Little mistakes will make you seem more human and personable. 
• Conclude with gratitude : Sign off from your video by thanking them for the opportunity to apply for the position. You can also list your availability for an interview and any necessary contact information.

Try Covideo for Cover Letters Today

To create the best video cover letter, you need access to the best tools. Covideo is the #1 platform for video messaging and personalized communication. With Covideo, you can record video messages from anywhere with the mobile apps, Chrome extension, and email add-ons. To make your videos extra professional, you can use our new teleprompter feature to stay on script without looking away from your screen. You can also add a custom video background or blur your background to keep your reviewer’s focus on you.

Once you’re done recording, you can embed your video directly into an email or text message. Covideo also generates a video link that you can copy and paste into any platform to quickly share it. When your recipient clicks on your video embed or link, they are redirected to a video landing page that you can customize in terms of size, color, and logo. You can include clickable CTAs in your video that can direct your viewer to another page such as an online resume or a calendar for scheduling an interview.

Best of all, you use Covideo analytics to track when your video is viewed. Covideo also tracks how many times the video is used as well as which sections were viewed the most. This way, you can know what part of your cover letter your reviewer was most interested in and adjust future cover letters accordingly.

If you’re ready to start using the best video cover letter tool, get Covideo Free today or schedule a demo with one of our video experts.

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What’s a Video Cover Letter?

With the advent of smartphones and tablets, video is now routine. Baby taking his first steps? Video it. Just climbed the Eiffel Tower? Video it. A clown’s on stilts in center city? Video that, too.  Whatever moment you wish to capture, you can do so by video. You can even use apps like Glide for instant video messaging. Not to mention, you can engage in live video conversations and conferencing with Skype and other programs right on your hand-held device. It therefore stands to reason that the prevalence of video would start taking hold in the job application process. And it has.

You might think that videos would be reserved for job interviews . But video can be used in the initial stage of a job application, along with sending your resume. Whereas previously, you would send your resume with a cover letter, or a cover letter email, now you can send a video cover letter.

Here are some tips for preparing and sending a video cover letter.

• Prepare a standard video first. As with written cover letters, you don’t need to tailor each video cover letter to match specific job applications. Use a script which will suit your general field of interest, and also demonstrates a bit about you personally. If the situation really warrants, you can create a more specialized video for a particular job – the issue is merely your time. And be sure to make the video short – less than one minute is ideal.
• Dress the Part. For the cover letter video, dress as if you are on the job. Show them your work persona not only in dress but in speech, facial expressions, and hand gestures. In short, be as professional as you always would be.
• Relax. Video viewers do not expect you to spend millions on your selfie video. They do expect you to show your true self though, so even if you’re nervous, relax, and act like you would on an in-person interview.
• Judge Whether It’s the Right Time. It might be presumptuous to send a video cover letter if the application did not require it. On the other hand, you might be lauded for taking initiative if you send it, even if it was not requested. You be the judge. But there’s a better way around this question: Create a professional profile in a job search site , you can upload your cover letter video, and whoever wishes to view it can choose to do so.

Video is becoming as prevalent a form of communication as SMS. Whether live or recorded, using video allows you to represent yourself much more comprehensively than by text only. For job applications, sending a video cover letter provides an opportunity for you to show your all – much more fully than with a paper or email cover letter. By using a video cover letter, the interview process is eased for both you and the potential employer. Now, go write your less-than-one-minute script so you can suit up, smile, and press “Record.” We wish you well in getting a satisfying job, aided by your video cover letter.

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Video Resumes (and Video Cover Letters)

• By Myles @ Peak
• August 15, 2022

Tips for Video Resumes

Everything you wanted to know about video cover letters.

Video cover letters (sometimes called “video resumes” or even “video CV”) were pioneered by TikTok in 2021. Since then have seen more job seekers filming them, and more employers requesting the. A video cover letter can be great to put on your LinkedIn in order to help you “jump off the page” from your resume.

What are video cover letters/resumes?

Video Cover letters are short videos that showcase your core skills, your passion, your work experience, and your connection to a company. These are typically filmed and put on your LinkedIn profile or can be sent to employers as a link. Some employers will require video cover letters.

Do I need a video cover letter?

Video cover letters are mostly optional but can be a great way to stand out. Some companies may require a video cover letter as part of their application process.

Who should use video resumes?

All job seekers should be aware of what v. While this medium is not for everyone, here are a couple groups of people who can benefit from utilizing video cover letters:

• Those seeking customer-facing roles. If you’re looking for a role where your relatability is a success factor, such as customer service or sales, video cover letters can be a great way to stand out and showcase your unique personality.
• Those seeking to demonstrate tech-savvy. If you are struggling to overcome biases such as age-ism or you are otherwise being judged for lacking technical prowess, a video cover letter can be a great way to “prove them wrong.”
• To stand out. Most job seekers do not take the time or don’t have the self-confidence to film and post a video resume. Thus, it’s a great way to get attention or even to get a recruiter to slow down and consider your application more carefully.
• If really, really want to work there . If part of your pitch is your passion for the company, a video cover letter is a great way to express that passion.
• To tell your unique story. Sometimes, we’re not always the “obvious choice” of a candidate. Recruiters and HR managers are often looking for the obvious choice so this gives you a chance to tell your unique story and why you’d be a great fit!

Where do I find a video resume editor?

You don’t need any special software for filming. Utilize a web camera and off-the-shelf consumer software such as iMovie or an application such as Zoom to film it. If you can edit the video, even better!

Drawbacks to video cover letters?

The most obvious drawback is that in can take some time to put together a video resume, especially if you haven’t edited or recorded video before.

There are also some people concerned about privacy–if this is the case, a video resume might not before you. If an application requires it but you’re concerned about privacy, you can upload it to YouTube as “unlisted” to make sure that only people with the link can view it.

Finally, there are some concerns about bias in the hiring process: such biases against underrepresented groups, women, and people with visible disabilities. Unfortunately, hiring managers will likely be Googling you anyway so if you have a photo posted online, they might well see you anyway. That said, refraining from posting videos and pictures of yourself can help protect you from being subject to this bias.

How do I record a video cover letter?

You can use a web camera on your computer. If you’re filming on a cell phone, make sure to hold the phone in “landscape mode.” Also make sure you’re in a quiet room, have a decent microphone, and have yourself well lit so the viewer can see your face.

You may also want to record yourself a couple of times to practice and to pick out the best segment.

Also, while you want to be personable, make sure that the video cover letter represents demonstrates your professionalism. Don’t get too casual!

What should I talk about on my video cover letter?

Some things you might want to talk about include:

• Key accomplishments
• Your vision/passion
• Where you’ve worked and the kind of job you’re seeking
• Your connection to the company (if you know someone who works there)
• Your approach to work
• And don’t forget to include your name and contact information!

How long should video cover letters be?

They should be short: usually about one minute in length. It can be hard to fit everything in there but remember you’re just trying to give them a sample, not tell them your whole life story.

Difference between “video resume” and “video cover letter?”

For the most part, these terms are used interchangeably. While “video cover letter” is a bit more accurate in its description, a “video resume” is more commonly used.

Austin Strategies for Job Seekers Class

While you’re here, make sure to check out Eliana De La Garza and Austin Community College’s “ Strategies for Job Seekers Class. ” Kind of like a job seeking bootcamp, this is a free class for Austin locals that can help you answer all your burning questions about job seeking and get you ready to look for work.

Myles @ Peak

From the blog.

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Professional Video Producer Cover Letter Examples for 2024

Your video producer cover letter should immediately capture the attention of the hiring manager. Highlight your storytelling ability through concise, vivid language. Demonstrate your technical expertise and your knack for engaging audiences. Remember, your cover letter is a reflection of your video production skills; make every word count.

Cover Letter Guide

Video Producer Cover Letter Sample

Cover Letter Format

Cover Letter Salutation

Cover Letter Introduction

Cover Letter Body

Cover Letter Closing

No Experience Video Producer Cover Letter

Key Takeaways

Crafting a compelling video producer cover letter can feel daunting, especially if you've just started job hunting and realized it's a crucial requirement. This isn't just an echo of your resume; it should spotlight your proudest professional moment in a narrative form, keeping it engaging and clear of worn-out phrases. Remember, brevity is key: your story must unfold on a single page, balancing formality with a hint of personal flair to truly stand out. Let's dive into how you can achieve this.

• Personalize your video producer cover letter and get inspired by other professionals to tell a compelling story;
• Format and design your video producer cover letter to make an excellent first impression;
• Introduce your best achievement in your video producer cover letter to recruiters;
• How to make sure recruiters get in touch with you, using your video producer cover letter greeting and closing paragraphs.

What is more, did you know that Enhancv's AI can write your cover letter for you? Just upload your video producer resume and get ready to forward your job application in a flash.

If the video producer isn't exactly the one you're looking for we have a plethora of cover letter examples for jobs like this one:

• Video Production Manager resume guide and example
• Film Production cover letter example
• Artistic Director cover letter example
• Cinematographer cover letter example
• Painter cover letter example
• Fashion Stylist cover letter example
• Videographer cover letter example
• Artist cover letter example
• Musical Theatre cover letter example
• Musician cover letter example
• DJ cover letter example

Video Producer cover letter example

Samuel Moore

Phoenix, Arizona

+1-(234)-555-1234

[email protected]

• Highlighting quantifiable achievements: The cover letter mentions a "25% reduction in project turnaround times," which provides a clear and impressive metric of the applicant's impact at their previous job.
• Relevance to the job role: The applicant emphasizes their experience in "directing a multi-talented team" and handling "expansive video campaigns across varied social platforms", directly aligning with the key responsibilities of a Senior Video Producer.
• Showcasing soft skills: The applicant shows their "strategic vision and meticulous attention to detail," soft skills that are important for a Senior Video Producer who needs to manage both the big picture and the minutiae of video production.
• Customization to the company: The cover letter is tailored to reflect the specific values and goals of the company it is addressed to, demonstrating the applicant's genuine interest and research into the company's ethos.

The must-have sections and format of your video producer cover letter

When writing your video producer cover letter, keep in mind that it'll only be read by the recruiters and not the Applicant Tracker System (or software used to assess your profile). That's why you should structure your content with a/an:

• Header (apart from your contact information, include your name, the role you're applying for, and the date);
• Personalized salutation;
• Opening paragraph to win the recruiters over;
• Middle paragraph with key details;
• Closing that starts from clichés;
• Sign off (that's not mandatory).

Industry standards dictate your paragraphs to be single-spaced and to wrap your content in a one-inch margin. Designing your video producer cover letter, refer to one of our templates , which automatically takes care of the spacing and margins.

Choose the same font for your video producer cover letter as you did for your resume : the likes of Lato and Bitter would help you to stand out in a sea of cover letters in Arial or Times New Roman.

Export your whole video producer cover letter from our builder in PDF to keep the same formatting and image quality.

The top sections on a video producer cover letter

• Header: This section includes the video producer’s contact information, the date, and the recipient's details, ensuring the letter is directed to the proper individual for a personal touch.
• Greeting: A tailored greeting addresses the hiring manager by name, demonstrating attention to detail and a personal investment in establishing a professional relationship.
• Introduction: The intro briefly highlights the candidate's enthusiasm for the role and their relevant experience in video production, setting the tone for the letter and engaging the recruiter's interest.
• Body: This section should detail the video producer’s specific skills, such as project management, storytelling, and technical proficiencies, and include examples of past work or projects that directly relate to the job's requirements.
• Closing: The closing paragraph reinforces the candidate's passion for video production, their fit for the company culture, and includes a call to action, inviting the recruiter to review the attached portfolio and resume, and setting up an opportunity for further discussion.

Key qualities recruiters search for in a candidate’s cover letter

Proficiency in video editing software (such as Adobe Premiere Pro, Final Cut Pro, or Avid Media Composer): Demonstrates the technical skill necessary to produce high-quality video content.

Experience with camera operation and a good eye for composition: Indicates the ability to capture professional-grade footage that requires minimal post-production work.

Strong storytelling skills: Essential for creating engaging and compelling video content that resonates with an audience.

Ability to work under tight deadlines: Shows that the candidate can manage time efficiently and deliver quality work even under pressure.

Collaboration and communication skills: Video production is often a team effort, so being able to work well with others and communicate ideas clearly is crucial.

Knowledge of current video trends and social media platforms: Reflects an understanding of the digital landscape and the ability to produce content that is relevant and appealing to today's audiences.

How to personalize your video producer cover letter greeting

Before you start writing your video producer cover letter, take the time to find out who is recruiting for the role.

Search for the recruiter's name on LinkedIn or the corporate website to address them personally in your video producer cover letter salutation .

What if you can't find out who's recruiting for the role?

Always aim to avoid the very impersonal "Dear Sir/Madam" - instead, opt out for "Dear HR Team" or "Dear Hiring Manager" to make a better first impression.

List of salutations you can use

• Dear Hiring Manager,
• Dear [Recipient's Name],
• Dear Mr./Ms. [Last Name],
• Dear Search Committee,
• Dear Talent Acquisition Team,
• Dear Human Resources Director,

The video producer cover letter introduction: focusing on your unique value, with a creative twist

You are not the only one wondering how to start your video producer cover letter. Those first two sentences introduce your profile and should be memorable.

No pressure.

When beginning your video producer cover letter , immediately point out the unique value of working with you. In other words, what you promise to bring to the role by using your past track record of success.

Start your video producer cover letter with a creative twist by telling a joke or stating something relatable. Select this type of introduction only if it aligns with the company culture.

That one achievement in your video producer cover letter body

The lengthiest part of your video producer cover letter is the body.

Within the next three to six middle paragraphs, present yourself as the best candidate for the role .

How can you do that without retelling your whole professional resume?

Select one key achievement that covers job-crucial skills and technologies (and is memorable).

Within the body of your video producer cover letter, aim to tell the story of how you achieved your success. Also, write about how this would help out your potential team.

Thinking about the closing paragraph of your video producer cover letter

Before your signature, you have extra space to close off your video producer cover letter .

Use it to either make a promise or look to the future.

Remind recruiters how invaluable of a candidate you are by showing what you plan to achieve in the role.

Also, note your availability for a potential next meeting (in person or over the telephone).

By showing recruiters that you're thinking about the future, you'd come off as both interested in the opportunity and responsible.

What to write on your video producer cover letter, when you have zero experience

The best advice for candidates, writing their video producer cover letters with no experience , is this - be honest.

If you have no past professional roles in your portfolio, focus recruiters' attention on your strengths - like your unique, transferrable skill set (gained as a result of your whole life), backed up by one key achievement.

Or, maybe you dream big and have huge motivation to join the company. Use your video producer cover letter to describe your career ambition - that one that keeps you up at night, dreaming about your future.

Finally, always ensure you've answered why employers should hire precisely you and how your skills would benefit their organization.

Key takeaways

Within this Enhancv guide, we've provided you with plenty of advice and inspiration on writing your video producer cover letter:

• Always make sure your video producer cover letter is tailored to the role you're applying for to make a good impression on recruiters;
• In your video producer cover letter include a header (with your name, the role you're applying for, date, and contact details) and an introduction of up to two sentences that highlight your key accomplishment or why you'd fit the role;
• Focus your video producer cover letter body on one sole achievement through your career and all the valuable lessons, skills, and know-how you've learned (that are relevant to the role);
• Ensure your video producer cover letter closing statement isn't generic and includes either a call to action or a promise;
• If you lack professional experience, shift recruiters' focus to a relevant achievement (thanks to your academic or versatile experience) or toward your dreams and goals for professional growth.

Cover letter examples by industry

AI cover letter writer, powered by ChatGPT

Enhancv harnesses the capabilities of ChatGPT to provide a streamlined interface designed specifically focused on composing a compelling cover letter without the hassle of thinking about formatting and wording.

• Content tailored to the job posting you're applying for
• ChatGPT model specifically trained by Enhancv
• Lightning-fast responses

What Is The Purpose Of A Cover Letter In An Application

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How to Write a Cover Letter With No Experience (Examples Included!)

Writing a cover letter with no experience might feel like an intimidating task. The anxiety of facing a blank page—often with that inner voice whispering you may not be qualified enough—can indeed be paralyzing. But guess what? We’ve all been there, and trust me, you can do it too.

Everyone who has a job today started with no experience and had to write their first cover letter . Some of us even did it in a time when technology wasn’t around to help out (thankfully, things have changed!).

Need some guidance on writing yours? Here is everything you need to know to craft a cover letter with no experience, plus examples to guide you through the process.

What is a cover letter?

First things first: A cover letter is a document that you send to introduce yourself when applying for a job or internship. It complements your resume, providing more insight into who you are and the skills and qualifications that make you perfect for the role.

Think of it like a virtual handshake with the hiring manager. It’s your first interaction and your chance to quickly introduce yourself to secure an interview. Together with your resume , the cover letter is your opportunity to make a strong impression.

Why should you write a cover letter

Writing a cover letter, even if you lack experience, can set you apart from other candidates. It gives you space to delve more deeply into the skills and qualifications mentioned on your resume.

“Rather than focusing on what you have not accomplished yet in your career, focus on what you bring to the table: your skills, competencies, personality traits, and the values that you have developed in your life and education,” says Eloïse Eonnet , career coach and communication skills expert.

How to write a cover letter with no experience: 7 tips

When writing your cover letter, keep in mind your goal: leaving a positive first impression on the reader. It should include relevant information for the position you're applying for and maintain a professional yet engaging tone.

That’s your chance to convince the recruiter that you are the right person for the job and schedule an interview. “So, make sure you are clear on what skills and competencies you bring, and what personality traits make you a great fit,” says Eonnet.

If you still feel stuck and don’t know where to start, here's our seven-step guide on how to write a cover letter with no experience:

1. Check the company and job description

The first step in crafting a well-written cover letter is to research the company where you want to work. Carefully review what the organization shares about its values and culture on social media or its website to understand how you can relate to it in your letter.

The job description should also be examined closely because it typically includes keywords that you can incorporate into your cover letter when explaining your skills and competencies.

2. Include contact details

Mastering the cover letter format is as important as the content itself. Traditionally, a cover letter begins with your name and contact details—ensuring that if the recruiter decides to interview you, the information will be visible and easy to find.

And below your information, right before your opening paragraph, should be the hiring manager contact details. This format is considered more professional and is what is typically expected from candidates.

For example:

[Your First and Last Name]

[Phone number]

[Optional, unless it’s asked for: Your address]

[Date you're sending the letter]

[Hiring managers First and Last Name]

3. Begin with a friendly yet professional greeting

Remember, a cover letter is your initial interaction with the hiring manager, but in a virtual setting. Like in the real world, you begin with a greeting and then proceed to introduce yourself.

Choose a formal greeting such as “ Dear First and Last Name” , avoiding casual words like “ Hi” or “ Hey” to keep a professional tone. After that, you can start your first paragraph by introducing yourself and stating the position you are applying for.

Dear Lucia Carter,

My name is Alana Reeves, and I’m excited to apply for the Copywriter position at ABC Agency, which I discovered on LinkedIn. As a recent graduate from Columbia University, I’d be thrilled to work for a company that aligns with [Company’s values and/or culture].

4. Highlight relevant qualifications

Now, it’s time to showcase that you have what it takes to fulfill the desired position. When writing a cover letter with no experience, the key is to emphasize any relevant skills and competencies, detailing how they were developed.

“If a candidate has no work experience to pull from, I suggest that they talk about projects they completed at school, courses they took, extracurricular activities and community based projects they focused on, and even personal life events and projects they have experienced,” says Eonnet.

Filter what’s most relevant to the role you’re applying for and create a link between your skills and the job description.

“ Since my first semester at school, I’ve cultivated a passion for producing digital content for companies and institutions. I acted on this by creating a blog for the Mass Communication's website, where I wrote stories that captured the daily lives of the students on campus and the Columbia University culture. I also created a series providing recommendations of books, websites, films and TV shows relevant to a Mass Communication graduate.”

5. Showcase hard and soft skills

At this point, you’ve probably heard about hard and soft skills , right? Hard skills are technical abilities or knowledge that you can acquire through education, work experience, or training, whereas soft skills are linked to behavior and interpersonal relationships.

Recruiters seek candidates with a good mix of both types of skills, and the second and third paragraphs of your cover letter are perfect to show that you have what they are looking for.

“Show, do’’t tell! Rather than list your traits, they need to be in context of your past experience, even if it’s not official ’work experience,’” says Eonnet. So, use what you know about the company to show why you’re a good fit—be sure to explain how your skills match their needs.

“ During my four years as a blog content creator, I developed a strong understanding of SEO strategy, creative copywriting, and data analysis using Google Analytics, attracting approximately 1000 monthly visitors to the blog. I also applied my communication and self-management skills by interviewing students and managing the content by myself.”

If you have any top accomplishments, whether personal or academic, you can also include them in this section of your cover letter.

6. Close professionally

Wrap up your cover letter by reiterating your interest in the position and closing with a professional sign-off . You can use an engaging and friendly tone—and even ask for an interview—but don’t go overboard. Avoid overly casual language like “See you soon” or “Cheers”.

“I’m impressed by ABC Agency’s culture and creative approach to copywriting. I look forward to the opportunity to discuss my qualifications further in an interview.

Thank you for considering my application.

Best regards,

Alana Reeves”

7. Proofread carefully

This should go without saying, but make sure to submit a flawless letter free from grammatical, spelling, or punctuation errors. Unfortunately, even great candidates can be overlooked if their cover letter or resume has too many mistakes.

To avoid this, take time to proofread your writing before submission. Remember, you’re not the only one job hunting, and recruiters probably go through tons of cover letters and resumes daily. Anything less than impeccable could be a deal-breaker.

Cover letter examples with no experience (but willing to learn!)

Ready to see these tips in action? Check out two examples of cover letters with no experience to guide you.

1# Sample cover letter for internship with no experience

Alana Reeves

123-456-7890

[email protected]

February 26, 2024

Lucia Carter

123 Payne St.

[email protected]

I’m excited to apply for the marketing internship position at ABC Agency. As a recent graduate from Columbia University, I’m eager to delve deeper into marketing strategies and their role in the business world.

In addition to my commitment to college studies, over the past year, I’ve completed courses in digital marketing essentials and inbound marketing. I’ve also been actively involved in extracurricular activities, creating content and promoting student events across multiple platforms. These experiences have not only expanded my creativity but also enhanced my teamwork skills.

I’m enthusiastic about the prospect of joining your marketing team, as I’m an admirer of your creative marketing campaigns and ABC Agency’s commitment to social responsibility. I'm confident in my ability to contribute to your growth by offering innovative solutions and fresh perspectives for the business.

I look forward to the opportunity to discuss my qualifications further.

2# Sample cover letter for job with no experience

My name is Alana Reeves, and I’m writing to express my interest in the entry-level social media management position at ABC Agency, which I discovered on LinkedIn. As a recent graduate with a major in Mass Communication from Columbia University, I am eager to apply my education in a dynamic and innovative company like yours.

During my four years of undergraduate studies, I initiated and managed a TikTok and Instagram page to share my study routine. I was successful in creating a community of 5,000 followers, including students from Columbia University and other universities nationwide.

This experience equipped me with a robust understanding of content creation, image and video editing, community management, and social media analytics. I strengthened my self-management and organization skills, effectively balancing my academic responsibilities with this project.

Being an admirer of ABC Agency’s creative and humorous content, I am enthusiastic about the prospect of contributing to your team. I believe I can bring fresh ideas and an innovative approach to enhance your social media presence.

What to avoid when writing your cover letter

Understanding what not to say is also helpful when crafting a cover letter without experience. Here are two things to steer clear of:

Don’t be too apologetic

It’s easy to fall into the trap of downplaying your past experiences just because they weren’t formal jobs. However, you should—or at least try to—avoid this negative and overly apologetic approach at all costs.

“I would definitely avoid qualifying any past experience (school projects, odd jobs, internships, community service, personal projects) as ’not work experience.’ I see candidates use an apologetic tone sometimes, which is counterproductive.” says Eonnet.

Don’t focus on your lack of experience

If you’re searching for tips on how to write a cover letter with no experience, examples and such, chances are you're applying for an entry level position. In this case, avoid dedicating too much space in your letter to the fact that you haven’t had a traditional job.

“Recruiters who are looking to fill an entry-level role do not expect you to have a bunch of full-time work experience. Rather, they’re looking for candidates who are self-aware, ready to work, and interested in the position.” says Eonnet.

Video cover letters

Want to add an extra splash of personality to your application process? Our video cover letter tool allows candidates to record a short introduction within their application.

How to watch President Biden's speech tonight on dropping out of the 2024 race

Biden delivered an Oval Office address on his decision to exit the race.

President Joe Biden delivered an Oval Office address on Wednesday night on his decision not to seek reelection and how he plans to finish his tenure as commander in chief.

What time is President Biden's address from the Oval Office?

Biden spoke at 8 p.m. ET about his decision to "pass the torch to a new generation" and what he will continue to focus on during these final six months in office.

How to watch or livestream Biden's address

ABC News provided special live coverage of President Biden’s remarks with a special report on ABC, ABC News Live and Hulu .

The speech marked Biden's first extensive, on-camera comments on his decision to step away from the 2024 campaign trail and endorse Vice President Kamala Harris.

The president first announced he would "stand down" from the race and focus his attention on the remaining six months of his term in a letter posted to social media on Sunday .

In the letter, addressed to his "fellow Americans," Biden said it was the "greatest honor of my life to serve as your President."

While he said his in-depth remarks on his decision would come later, Biden expressed his "deepest gratitude to all those who have worked so hard to see me reelected."

Read President Joe Biden's full letter announcing he's leaving 2024 race

"I want to thank Vice President Kamala Harris for being an extraordinary partner in all this work," he wrote. "And let me express my heartfelt appreciation to the American people for the faith and trust you have placed in me. I believe today what I always have: that there is nothing America can't do -- when we do it together. We just have to remember we are the United States of America."

Biden's decision to drop out of the race came after weeks of intense scrutiny from fellow Democrats about his ability to campaign and serve a second term after his poor debate performance against Donald Trump in June.

Biden was initially defiant, insisting he would stay the course and that only the "Lord Almighty" could tell him to step aside in the 2024 race.

Biden dismisses concerns about mental fitness, says he'd drop out if the 'Lord Almighty' told him to

But after a drumbeat of Democrats publicly called on him to step aside from his reelection bid, and other prominent leaders like Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer and House Majority Leader Hakeem Jeffries privately suggesting he do so, Biden made the decision to bow out.

Biden went on to endorse Harris to take his place atop the ticket.

"My very first decision as the party nominee in 2020 was to pick Kamala Harris as my Vice President," he wrote in another social media post on Sunday. "And it’s been the best decision I've made. Today I want to offer my full support and endorsement for Kamala to be the nominee of our party this year. Democrats -- it's time to come together and beat Trump. Let's do this."

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FACT FOCUS: A look at false claims around Kamala Harris and her campaign for the White House

Democrats are quickly rallying around Vice President Kamala Harris as their likely presidential nominee after President Joe Biden’s ground-shaking decision to bow out of the 2024 race.

Vice President Kamala Harris arrives to speak from the South Lawn of the White House in Washington, Monday, July 22, 2024, during an event with NCAA college athletes. This is her first public appearance since President Joe Biden endorsed her to be the next presidential nominee of the Democratic Party. (AP Photo/Alex Brandon)

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The announcement that Vice President Kamala Harris will seek the Democratic nomination for president is inspiring a wave of false claims about her eligibility and her background. Some first emerged years ago, while others only surfaced after President Joe Biden’s decision to end his bid for a second term.

Here’s a look at the facts.

CLAIM: Harris is not an American citizen and therefore cannot serve as commander in chief.

THE FACTS: Completely false . Harris is a natural born U.S. citizen. She was born on Oct. 20, 1964, in Oakland, California, according to a copy of her birth certificate, obtained by The Associated Press.

Her mother, a cancer researcher from India, and her father, an economist from Jamaica, met as graduate students at the University of California, Berkeley.

Under the 14th Amendment to the Constitution, anyone born on U.S. soil is considered a natural born U.S. citizen and eligible to serve as either the vice president or president.

“All persons born or naturalized in the United States, and subject to the jurisdiction thereof, are citizens of the United States and of the State wherein they reside,” reads the amendment.

There is no question or legitimate debate about whether a citizen like Harris is eligible to serve as president or vice president, said Jessica Levinson, a professor at Loyola Law School.

“So many legal questions are really nuanced — this isn’t one of those situations,” Levinson told the AP on Monday.

Still, social media posts making the debunked assertion that Harris cannot serve as president went viral soon after Biden announced Sunday that he was dropping out of the race and would back Harris for president.

“Kamala Harris is not eligible to run for President,” read one post on X that was liked more than 34,000 times. “Neither of her parents were natural born American citizens when she was born.”

False assertions about Harris’ eligibility began circulating in 2019 when she launched her bid for the presidency. They got a boost, thanks in part to then-President Donald Trump, when Biden selected her as his running mate.

“I heard today that she doesn’t meet the requirements,” the Republican said of Harris in 2019.

CLAIM: Harris is not Black.

THE FACTS: This is false. Harris is Black and Indian . Her father, Donald Harris, is a Black man who was born in Jamaica. Shyamala Gopalan, her mother, was born in southern India. Harris has spoken publicly for many years, including in her 2019 autobiography , about how she identifies with the heritage of both her parents.

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Despite ample evidence to the contrary, social media users are making erroneous claims about Harris’ race.

“Just a reminder that Kamala Harris @KamalaHarris isn’t black,” reads one X post that had received approximately 42,000 likes and 20,400 shares as of Monday. “She Indian American. She pretends to be black as part of the delusional, Democrat DEI quota.”

But Harris is both Black and Indian. Indeed, she is the first woman, Black person and person of South Asian descent to serve as vice president. This fact is highlighted in her biography on WhiteHouse.gov and she has spoken about her ethnicity on many occasions.

Harris wrote in her autobiography, “The Truths We Hold: An American Journey,” that she identifies with the heritage of both her mother and father.

“My mother, grandparents, aunts, and uncle instilled us with pride in our South Asian roots,” she wrote. “Our classical Indian names harked back to our heritage, and we were raised with a strong awareness and appreciation for Indian culture.”

In the next paragraph, she adds, “My mother understood very well that she was raising two black daughters.” Harris again refers to herself as a “black woman” in the book’s next chapter.

CLAIM: Harris got her start by having an affair with a married man, California politician Willie Brown.

THE FACTS: This is missing some important context. Brown was separated from his wife during the relationship, which was not a secret.

Brown, 90, is a former mayor of San Francisco who was serving as speaker of the California State Assembly in the 1990s when he and Harris were in a relationship. Brown had separated from his wife in 1982.

“Yes, we dated. It was more than 20 years ago,” Brown wrote in 2020 in the San Francisco Chronicle under the article title, “Sure, I dated Kamala Harris. So what?”

He wrote that he supported Harris’ first race to be San Francisco district attorney — just as he has supported a long list of other California politicians, including former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, former Sen. Dianne Feinstein and Gov. Gavin Newsom.

Harris, 59, was state attorney general from 2011-2017 and served in the Senate from 2017 until 2021, when she became vice president. She has been married to Doug Emhoff since 2014.

Harris’ critics have used the past relationship to question her qualifications, as Fox News personality Tomi Lahren did when she wrote on social media in 2019: “Kamala did you fight for ideals or did you sleep your way to the top with Willie Brown.” Lahren later apologized for the comment.

Trump and some of his supporters have also highlighted the nearly three-decade old relationship in recent attacks on Harris .

CLAIM: An Inside Edition clip of television host Montel Williams holding hands with Harris and another woman is proof that Harris was his “side piece.”

THE FACTS: The clip shows Montel with Harris and his daughter, Ashley Williams. Harris and Williams, a former marine who hosted “The Montel Williams Show” for more than a decade, dated briefly in the early 2000s.

In the clip, taken from a 2019 Inside Edition segment , Williams can be seen posing for photographs and holding hands with both women as they arrive at the 2001 Eighth Annual Race to Erase MS in Los Angeles.

But social media users are misrepresenting the clip, using it as alleged evidence that Harris was Montel’s “side piece” — a term used to describe a person, typically a woman, who has a sexual relationship with a man in a monogamous relationship.

Williams addressed the false claims in an X post on Monday, writing in reference to the Inside Edition clip, “as most of you know, that is my daughter to my right.” Getty Images photos from the Los Angeles gala identify the women as Harris and Ashley Williams.

In 2019, Williams described his relationship with Harris in a post on X, then known as Twitter.

“@KamalaHarris and I briefly dated about 20 years ago when we were both single,” he wrote in an X post at the time. “So what? I have great respect for Sen. Harris. I have to wonder if the same stories about her dating history would have been written if she were a male candidate?”

CLAIM: Harris promised to inflict the “vengeance of a nation” on Trump supporters.

THE FACTS: A fabricated quote attributed to Harris is spreading online five years after it first surfaced.

In the quote, Harris supposedly promises that if Trump is defeated in 2020, Trump supporters will be targeted by the federal government: “Once Trump’s gone and we have regained our rightful place in the White House, look out if you supported him and endorsed his actions, because we’ll be coming for you next. You will feel the vengeance of a nation.”

The quote was shared again on social media this week. One post on X containing an image of the quote was shared more than 22,000 times as of Monday afternoon.

The remarks didn’t come from Harris , but from a satirical article published online in August 2019. Shortly after, Trump supporters like musician Ted Nugent reposted the comments without noting they were fake.

CLAIM: A video shows Harris saying in a speech: “Today is today. And yesterday was today yesterday. Tomorrow will be today tomorrow. So live today, so the future today will be as the past today as it is tomorrow.”

THE FACTS: Harris never said this. Footage from a 2023 rally on reproductive rights at Howard University, her alma mater, was altered to make it seem as though she did.

In the days after Harris headlined the Washington rally, Republicans mocked a real clip of her speech, with one critic dubbing her remarks a “word salad,” the AP reported at the time .

Harris says in the clip: “So I think it’s very important — as you have heard from so many incredible leaders — for us, at every moment in time, and certainly this one, to see the moment in time in which we exist and are present, and to be able to contextualize it, to understand where we exist in the history and in the moment as it relates not only to the past, but the future.”

NARAL Pro-Choice America, an abortion rights nonprofit whose president also spoke at the rally, livestreamed the original footage. It shows Harris making the “moment in time” remark, but not the “today is today” comment.

The White House’s transcript of Harris’ remarks also does not include the statement from the altered video. Harris’ appearance at the event came the same day that Biden announced their reelection bid .

Find AP Fact Checks here: https://apnews.com/APFactCheck .

Harris' border work was on 'root causes' of migration; she wasn't in charge | Fact check

The claim: Kamala Harris was 'put in charge of the border'

A July 21 Instagram post ( direct link , archive link ) by Donald Trump Jr. blames Vice President Kamala Harris for the country's immigration problems.

"She was put in charge of the border and we saw the worst invasion of illegals in our history!!!" reads part of the post, which is a screenshot of a post from X, formerly Twitter.

Similar posts on Threads have described Harris as the Biden administration's "border czar."

The Instagram post was liked more than 200,000 times in a day.

More from the Fact-Check Team: How we pick and research claims | Email newsletter | Facebook page

Our rating: False

The post exaggerates the vice president's role in addressing migration at the southern border. Harris was never put in charge of the border or made "border czar," immigration experts said. President Joe Biden tasked Harris with leading the administration's diplomatic efforts addressing the "root causes" of migration in El Salvador, Guatemala and Honduras.

Harris led effort addressing 'root causes' of migration in Central America

Early in his presidency, Biden tasked Harris with addressing the “root causes” of migration in Central America. The assignment came out of an executive order Biden issued in February 2021 that sought to reduce migration from the Northern Triangle countries of El Salvador, Guatemala and Honduras, where gang violence, trafficking networks and economic insecurity have caused people to flee.

But the vice president’s role was more limited than being put in charge of the southern border, or being named a so-called “border czar,” immigration experts said.

"VP Harris was never made the border czar or charged with managing the border," Andrew Selee , president of the Migration Policy Institute , said in an email. "That role has always been held by the secretary of Homeland Security . She was asked to be the chief diplomatic officer with Central American countries at a time when most of the increase in unauthorized immigration was coming from three countries in Central America and to help lead a private investment strategy in the region."

Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas himself noted the different responsibilities between himself and Harris in June 2021 comments at the El Paso, Texas, border.

"The vice president is leading our nation’s efforts to address the root causes – that fundamental question of why people leave their homes," Mayorkas said. "And it is my responsibility as the secretary of Homeland Security to address the security and management of our border."

In March 2021, Biden announced Harris would lead the administration's diplomatic efforts with the Northern Triangle countries to stem migration to the U.S. southern border and work with these nations to enhance migration enforcement at their borders. Harris said at the time that the administration "must address the root causes that – that cause people to make the trek, as the president has described, to come here."

Aaron Reichlin-Melnick , policy director at the American Immigration Council , said the "root causes" work Harris took on is distinct from border policy because it focuses on different problems and targets.

"Border policy focuses on individuals who have already made the decision to leave home and have made it to the U.S.-Mexico border and aims to either prevent them or to quickly process them for humanitarian relief or deportation once they cross," Reichlin-Melnick said in an email. "By contrast, 'root causes' policy focuses on individuals who have not left their homes yet, and aims to convince them to stay in their home countries either through economic development – which discourages migration for economic opportunities – or through reduction of violence and persecution that forces people to seek protection elsewhere."

The White House released the administration's " Root Causes Strategy " in July 2021. Its implementation was ongoing as of March when the vice president and the Partnership for Central America , a non-governmental organization, jointly announced $1 billion in new private-sector commitments to address the underlying conditions leading to migration in Guatemala, El Salvador and Honduras. The public-private partnership has generated more than $5.2 billion since May 2021 , the White House said.

Fact check : Joe Biden dropped out of presidential race but is finishing term

Elina Treyger , a senior political scientist at the RAND Corporation whose research includes migration and immigration enforcement, also said Harris' diplomatic role with the Central American countries "is in no way a 'border czar'-like position." Treyger said border policy involves many other issues such as enforcement policies, how to process migrants expressing fear of prosecution or torture and how to allocate resources at the border.

U.S. Border Patrol encounters with migrants at the southern border have soared under the Biden administration . Illegal crossings at the U.S.-Mexico border hit a record high of 2.2 million in 2022, and the number of people taken into custody by U.S. Border Patrol has reached the highest levels in the agency's history under Biden, the Washington Post reported .

After a bipartisan border security bill failed to advance in Congress, Biden issued a directive in June to turn away migrants who do not enter the country through legal ports of entry when the number of crossings is high.

Trump, the son of former President Donald Trump, did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

Our fact-check sources:

• Aaron Reichlin-Melnick , July 22, Email exchange with USA TODAY
• Andrew Selee , July 22, Email exchange with USA TODAY
• Elina Treyger , July 22, Email Exchange with USA TODAY
• White House, Feb. 2, 2021, Executive Order on Creating a Comprehensive Regional Framework to Address the Causes of Migration, to Manage Migration Throughout North and Central America, and to Provide Safe and Orderly Processing of Asylum Seekers at the United States Border
• White House, Feb. 6, 2023, FACT SHEET: Vice President Harris Announces Public-Private Partnership Has Generated More than $4.2 Billion in Private Sector Commitments for Northern Central America
• White House, March 24, 2021, Remarks by President Biden and Vice President Harris in a Meeting on Immigration
• White House, June 25, 2021, Remarks by Vice President Harris, Secretary of Homeland Security Mayorkas, Chairman Durbin, and Representative Escobar in Press Gaggle
• White House, July 29, 2021, FACT SHEET: Strategy to Address the Root Causes of Migration in Central America
• White House, March 25, FACT SHEET: Vice President Harris Announces Public-Private Partnership Has Generated More Than $5.2 Billion in Private Sector Commitments for Northern Central America
• White House, July 2021, U.S. Strategy for Addressing the Root Causes of Migration in Central America
• Department of State, Aug. 1, 2023, Central America Forward
• The Washington Post, Feb. 11, Trump vs. Biden on immigration: 12 charts comparing U.S. border security
• U.S. Embassy in Honduras, March 25, FACT SHEET: UPDATE ON THE U.S. STRATEGY FOR ADDRESSING THE ROOT CAUSES OF MIGRATION IN CENTRAL AMERICA
• USA TODAY, July 17, Border security takes center stage at RNC. Here's the actual data under Trump, Biden

Thank you for supporting our journalism. You can subscribe to our print edition, ad-free app or e-newspaper here .

USA TODAY is a verified signatory of the International Fact-Checking Network, which requires a demonstrated commitment to nonpartisanship, fairness and transparency. Our fact-check work is supported in part by a grant from Meta .

U.S. concerned results announced by Venezuela election authority don't reflect votes, says Blinken

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Olympics Live: Katie Ledecky wins 1500m women's freestyle, and 12th Olympic medal

Day 5 in Paris also saw the men's and women's triathlon go ahead after the River Seine was ruled clean enough.

Harris Rallies Exuberant Wisconsin Crowd, Saying ‘When We Fight, We Win’

Vice President Kamala Harris visited a key battleground state and quickly went on the offensive against former President Donald J. Trump, casting the race as a contest between a prosecutor and a felon.

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Simon J. Levien and Nicholas Nehamas

Harris also secured the backing of the top Democrats in Congress.

In the first rally of her presidential campaign, Vice President Kamala Harris greeted an exuberant crowd in Wisconsin and assailed the former president, telling them that she’d taken on fraudsters and cheaters as a prosecutor and “I know Donald Trump’s type.”

Supporters who seemed to be releasing pent-up energy after weeks of uncertainty over the future of the Democratic campaign chanted Ms. Harris’s name as she forcefully contrasted herself with Mr. Trump. She vowed to protect access to abortion and nodded to her relative youth, saying now “the baton is in our hands.” Ms. Harris closed her remarks by telling the fired-up audience, “When we fight, we win!” before leaving the stage to Beyoncé’s “Freedom.”

Here’s what else to know:

Open to debate: Mr. Trump said in a call with reporters that he “absolutely” would debate Ms. Harris and was “willing to do more than one debate.” But he once again said he did not want the debate to be hosted by ABC, even though he previously agreed to a debate with President Biden hosted by the network.

Key endorsements: A day after she clinched commitments from enough delegates to secure the party’s presidential nomination, Ms. Harris got the backing of Senator Chuck Schumer and Representative Hakeem Jeffries , the two top Democrats in Congress. Mr. Schumer said they were giving her their support “now that the process has played out from the grass roots, bottom up.”

Biden to address the nation: Mr. Biden, who was isolating with Covid when he decided to drop his re-election bid on Sunday, will address the nation on Wednesday night , three days after he said he would end his re-election campaign and endorsed Ms. Harris to take his place at the top of the ticket. Mr. Biden, who for weeks resisted intense pressure to drop out after his poor debate performance last month, said in a social media post that his remarks would focus “on what lies ahead, and how I will finish the job for the American people.”

Piling up the cash: The Harris campaign said it had raised more than $100 million between Sunday afternoon and Monday evening, far outstripping what either Mr. Biden or Mr. Trump had been able to raise in that amount of time. And a coalition of groups that support paid family leave is spending $500,000 to run a mostly biographical advertisement about Ms. Harris, the first announced independent expenditure to support her candidacy.

Clooney backs Harris: On Tuesday, the actor and Democratic donor George Clooney — who wrote a scathing essay in The New York Times two weeks ago calling on Mr. Biden to drop out — endorsed Ms. Harris for the presidency , pledging to do “whatever we can” to get her elected.

Virtual vote: The Democratic Party will nominate its presidential candidate in an online vote by Aug. 7 , giving the party just over two weeks to deliberate over the selection after swiftly coalescing behind Ms. Harris.

Running mates: Ms. Harris will have a series of potential vice-presidential running mates to choose from ahead of the Democratic National Convention, which begins Aug. 19 in Chicago. Here’s a look at the candidates in contention.

Trump’s schedule: Mr. Trump’s next campaign rally is scheduled for Wednesday in Charlotte, N.C. He wrote in a social media post that he will meet Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu of Israel on Friday at Mar-a-Lago, Mr. Trump’s private club and residence in Palm Beach, Fla.

Chris Cameron contributed reporting.

Theodore Schleifer

A super PAC tied to Elon Musk will be led by former aides to Ron DeSantis.

Two Republican operatives who played senior roles helping the presidential campaign of Gov. Ron DeSantis of Florida have taken on leadership roles in a new pro-Trump super PAC that could spend tens of millions of dollars in the presidential race and has ties to Elon Musk.

The aides, Generra Peck, who initially managed the DeSantis campaign, and Phil Cox, a former head of the Republican Governors Association who ran the DeSantis political operation in the years before his run, are quietly guiding the group, America PAC, according to three people briefed on the matter who were not authorized to discuss it publicly.

The super PAC has acquired an air of mystery in the Trump orbit, with other outside groups largely in the dark about its plans. The involvement of Mr. Cox and Ms. Peck may help legitimize it within the Republican establishment as it aims to become one of the leading groups on behalf of Mr. Trump. Ms. Peck and Mr. Cox are two of the party’s most prominent operatives and now lead a public affairs firm, P2 Pathway Public Affairs, and their involvement also helps unify the DeSantis and Trump orbits even further.

Also involved, according to a separate person briefed on the matter, is Charlie Spies, a senior election lawyer for the Republican Party. Mr. Spies, Ms. Peck and Mr. Cox declined to comment.

The group has taken pains to be secretive. Joe Lonsdale, an Austin-based tech entrepreneur, has played a key role in the group, recruiting many of his friends — including the Jimmy John’s founder, John Liautaud; Antonio Gracias, a former director of Tesla; and the Craft family of Kentucky — to help fund the effort. Mr. Musk, who recently endorsed former President Donald J. Trump and is a friend of Mr. Lonsdale, has described himself as having “created” the group and is expected to donate, but the amount remains unclear.

Ms. Peck rose to prominence as the initial campaign manager for Mr. DeSantis’s bid. By the end of the Republican primary race, she had drawn criticism for the Florida governor’s failure to live up to expectations. Mr. Cox worked for outside groups backing Mr. DeSantis during the primary contest.

Another Republican consultant, Dave Rexrode, who has led the political operation of Gov. Glenn Youngkin of Virginia and is also a former director of the R.G.A., is playing a smaller role in the group than Ms. Peck and Mr. Cox, with whom Mr. Rexrode has worked closely.

The group has spent $21 million on independent expenditures — primarily on a voter turnout program.

On Monday, Mr. Musk confirmed that he was connected to the group, saying that he created it in part to serve as a moderating influence in politics. Some donors to the group have similarly expressed a belief that it is not meant to be partisan but merely aims to deliver a ground game that ensures a “fairly conducted” election, according to one donor to the organization.

Mr. Musk dismissed a report that he would spend $45 million a month on the group as “not true.”

“It’s not meant to be sort of a hyperpartisan PAC,” he told the conservative commentator Jordan Peterson, adding that he wanted to “promote the principles that made America great in the first place. I wouldn’t say that I’m, for example, MAGA, or Make America Great Again. I think America is great. I’m more M-A-G, Make America Greater.”

Who Might Kamala Harris Pick as Her Running Mate?

The first big decision for Ms. Harris: Who will be her running mate if she is nominated by the Democratic Party to run for president in August.

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Maggie Haberman

The Trump campaign files a complaint over the transfer of Biden funds to Harris.

Donald J. Trump’s campaign filed a complaint on Tuesday with the Federal Election Commission against President Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris, accusing them of violating campaign finance laws by rolling Mr. Biden’s campaign funds over to Ms. Harris.

The complaint, filed by the Trump campaign’s general counsel, David Warrington, came after Mr. Biden’s team amended the name of its committee on Sunday to “Harris for President,” once Mr. Biden announced he was no longer running for a second term.

The fight is over what is left in Mr. Biden’s coffers that he is turning over to Ms. Harris, who had been his running mate.

“Kamala Harris is seeking to perpetrate a $91.5 million dollar heist of Joe Biden’s leftover campaign cash — a brazen money grab that would constitute the single largest excessive contribution and biggest violation in the history of the Federal Election Campaign Act of 1971, as amended,” Mr. Warrington wrote in the complaint.

Mr. Warrington accused the president, Ms. Harris and the campaign treasurer of “flagrantly violating the Act by making and receiving an excessive contribution of nearly one hundred million dollars, and for filing fraudulent forms with the Commission purporting to repurpose one candidate’s principal campaign committee for the use of another candidate.”

Not all campaign finance legal experts share Mr. Warrington’s view — some believe the Harris team is on legally safe ground — and it’s unclear what the F.E.C. will decide. But the Trump team is looking to grind the gears in the transition from Mr. Biden to Ms. Harris in any way they can.

Mr. Trump’s advisers had made clear they would seek to legally block Mr. Biden from transferring funds to Ms. Harris, suggesting a lawsuit was likely. Instead, they are filing a complaint with the F.E.C., which may not be resolved before Election Day.

An F.E.C. spokeswoman said the agency could not comment on pending enforcement matters.

Charles Lutvak, a spokesman for the Harris campaign, pointed to a giant campaign fund-raising haul the vice president’s expanded team has raised since Mr. Biden endorsed her.

“Republicans may be jealous that Democrats are energized to defeat Donald Trump and his MAGA allies, but baseless legal claims — like the ones they’ve made for years to try to suppress votes and steal elections — will only distract them while we sign up volunteers, talk to voters and win this election,” he said.

The Trump campaign’s complaint with the F.E.C. argues, among other things, that Ms. Harris isn’t yet the official nominee — that will happen at the Democratic National Convention next month — and that Mr. Biden, by saying he won’t be a candidate in the general election, isn’t in a position to keep the general-election contributions he has received.

“To date, Biden for President has provided no indication that it will return or redesignate all of its general election contributions,” Mr. Warrington wrote. “Thus, each and every general election contribution received by Biden for President is an excessive contribution.”

And Mr. Warrington accused the campaign’s treasurer and Ms. Harris of “attempted fraud” of the F.E.C. by using their forms to “rename and repurpose” the committee, seeking a Justice Department referral.

He argued in the letter that the commission should address the matter quickly and that Ms. Harris “is in the process of committing the largest campaign finance violation in American history and she is using the Commission’s own forms to do it.”

Trump has scheduled a finance event in the Hamptons on Aug. 2, per an invite I’ve seen. The event is stacked with loyalists and not many new names: It will be hosted by Howard Lutnick in Bridgehampton, and co-hosts include Trump friends such as Steve Witkoff, Woody Johnson and John Paulson. Tickets range from $25,000 to $500,000.

Nicholas Nehamas

The Democrats lay out a timeline for when Harris’s nomination will be set in stone.

The Democratic National Committee offered new clarity on how the party will formalize its next nominee, who is almost certain to be Vice President Kamala Harris, in a set of draft rules released on Tuesday.

According to the proposed rules, candidates for the nomination must demonstrate they have met the qualifying criteria by the evening of July 30, principally by having acquired the support of at least 300 delegates, with no more than 50 from a single state.

If only one candidate meets that threshold — that is, if Ms. Harris remains unchallenged — delegates will begin voting virtually on Aug. 1. The D.N.C. had previously said the vote must be complete by Aug. 7.

No plausible Democrats have stepped forward to challenge Ms. Harris after President Biden withdrew from the race and endorsed her. On Monday, she secured the pledges of the majority of delegates needed to become the nominee. She will choose her running mate separately.

On Wednesday, the Democratic National Convention’s rules committee will vote on the proposed rules in a public meeting.

Kate Conger

A lawmaker flags concern over X users being blocked from following Harris.

After some users on X, the social media site formerly known as Twitter, were blocked from following Vice President Kamala Harris’s campaign account in recent days, members of the House Judiciary Committee aired concerns that the platform might be censoring political speech.

In a letter to Representative Jim Jordan, Republican of Ohio and the committee’s chair, Representative Jerrold Nadler, Democrat of New York and the ranking member, wrote: “X may be intentionally throttling or blocking Vice President Harris’s ability to communicate with potential voters. If true, such action would amount to egregious censorship based on political and viewpoint discrimination.”

But employees of X who were not authorized to speak publicly about the matter said the campaign account was most likely caught in an anti-spam tool the company uses. The tool flags accounts that acquire a lot of new followers at once, since such activity is often linked to spam.

Some X users were also blocked from following Senator JD Vance’s personal account after he was announced as former President Donald J. Trump’s pick for vice president, those employees said — an indication that political bias was not the root of the issue.

Michael C. Bender

Reported while traveling with Senator JD Vance from Ohio to Virginia.

JD Vance is adjusting to his new role, aboard a plane with his name on it.

Senator JD Vance was unsure where to stand or where to put his hands.

With a fresh haircut and a closely tailored blue suit on his first day of solo campaigning as the Republican vice-presidential nominee, Mr. Vance walked to the back of his chartered airliner to chat with reporters on Monday. Briefly uncertain of how to start, he furrowed his brow and looked from side to side.

His unease was understandable — the utilitarian design of airplane seating does not exactly facilitate group discussion — but also revealing.

Where a more seasoned politician may have simply leaned against a seat, Mr. Vance in his initial confusion hinted at the inexperience of a 39-year-old embarking on his maiden national campaign just one year after being sworn in to his first elected office. When a flight attendant approached and urged everyone to fasten their seatbelts before landing, Mr. Vance plopped into an empty seat in the press cabin and quickly buckled up — as if he were just another passenger, and not the only one inside the plane with his name on the outside of it, too.

The in-flight candidate is, in many ways, a useful metaphor for the moment: a gifted yet fledgling political talent — whose calling card is his connection to the working class — adjusting to a new life with his own chartered Boeing 737 as the newly minted member of a Republican ticket headed by a three-time presidential contender.

Mr. Vance had arrived in Milwaukee last week for the Republican National Convention not knowing if he would be picked as Mr. Trump’s running mate, and he left town at the end of it on his own chartered jet.

“When President Trump asked me to be his running mate, I really had no idea what was coming,” Mr. Vance said during his speech in Ohio. “I thought he might ask me, but I thought he might ask somebody else — there were a lot of good guys running.”

As a first-time candidate in 2016, Mr. Trump and his campaign did not reserve a plane for the vice-presidential nominee, Mike Pence. Instead, that task of lining up air travel fell to the team surrounding the then-governor of Indiana. Mr. Trump was irate when he found out the Pence team had rented a plane, telling one aide that he preferred to use his own private jets.

Eight years later, Mr. Trump’s third campaign is a bit more professional. His 2024 operation started raising money online weeks ago for the running mate’s plane, which they refer to as Trump Force Two. In 2016, reporters referred to the Republican fleet as Hair Force One and Hair Force Two.

The red and blue Trump-Vance logo is stripped across the front of the plane, straddling the first dozen windows behind the cockpit. The tail is wrapped with names of dozens of contributors who helped underwrite the cost of the charter: Edward M. from Georgia, Victoria W. from Alabama, Barbara M. from Michigan.

Inside the jet, Trump campaign material is inescapable. If you were curious what the price of gasoline was during Mr. Trump’s last year in office, or how much the G.D.P. grew during that time, you can find the answers plastered on the walls above the windows along the 17 rows of the plane. Each overhead bin is wrapped with broad policy goals, in Trump-trademark all-caps: “Free, honest and lawful elections” and “Secure borders and reclaim national sovereignty.”

To be sure, the Trump campaign widely viewed Mr. Vance’s first day on the trail as a success.

“President Trump is thrilled with the choice he made with Senator Vance, and they are the perfect team to take back the White House,” said Steve Cheung, a Trump campaign spokesman.

Mr. Vance drew large crowds in Middletown, Ohio, and in Radford, Va., where he made his case for supporting the Trump campaign by leveraging folksy tales about his hardscrabble upbringing. And he easily sparred with reporters on his plane, showing off his quick wit and combative instinct when asked about criticism from Gov. Andy Beshear, a Kentucky Democrat, that Mr. Vance has overstated his blue-collar roots.

“It’s very weird,” Mr. Vance shot back, “to have a guy whose first job was at his dad’s law firm and who inherited the governorship from his father criticize my origin story.”

But there were plenty of signs of Mr. Vance’s inexperience, too.

He spoke mostly without a teleprompter at the two rallies, but some of his lines did not quite land. He made a strained joke about how Democrats may attack him as racist because he enjoyed Diet Mountain Dew.

In Ohio, he either ignored or was unaware of one headline-generating moment at his rally. State Senator George Lang, speaking shortly before Mr. Vance took the stage, told the crowd, “It’s going to take a civil war to save the country” if Republicans fail to win the White House in November. Mr. Lang issued a statement after the rally saying he regretted the “divisive remarks.”

On his plane, Mr. Vance explained to reporters that his anti-abortion positions would take a back seat to Mr. Trump as the party’s presidential nominee. But on the campaign trail, he said it was fair game to make Ms. Harris answer for all of the Biden administration’s policies.

“There is simply no way that you can sit here and say the policies of Joe Biden have worked, which is to say that we’ve got to kick Kamala Harris out of the Oval Office,” Mr. Vance said in Radford. “Don’t give her a chance to run away from the Biden record — the Biden record is the Kamala Harris record.”

At the end of the day, as the sun set over the Appalachian Mountains and Mr. Vance climbed up the stairs for his return flight home to Ohio, he paused when a reporter on the runway shouted a question asking how he had enjoyed his first day on the trail.

“It was fun,” Mr. Vance shouted back.

Reporters, mostly stunned that he had stopped to answer, didn’t immediately offer a follow-up question. So Mr. Vance ducked back into his plane.

Michael Gold

Donald Trump announces he will meet with Benjamin Netanyahu on Friday at Mar-a-Lago.

Former President Donald J. Trump, who often calls himself the staunchest ally of Israel to ever sit in the Oval Office, will meet with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu of Israel on Friday in Palm Beach, Fla., Mr. Trump said on Tuesday.

“Looking forward to welcoming Bibi Netanyahu at Mar-a-Lago,” Mr. Trump wrote in a post on his social media site, referring to his private club and residence.

The pair’s meeting will follow Mr. Netanyahu’s address to Congress in Washington on Wednesday and his meeting with President Biden at the White House on Thursday. (Mr. Trump announced three different dates: An initial post on Tuesday afternoon said he would meet with Mr. Netanyahu on Wednesday, then he deleted that post and replaced it with one saying Thursday. Minutes later, he said the meeting was moved to Friday at Mr. Netanyahu’s request.)

Mr. Netanyahu and Mr. Trump were close allies during Mr. Trump’s presidency. But their relationship became strained when the prime minister congratulated Mr. Biden on winning the 2020 presidential election.

Mr. Trump, who has continued to insist falsely that he won the election in 2020, saw the move as disloyal. And days after Hamas’s deadly attacks on Israel in October, Mr. Trump criticized Mr. Netanyahu and Israeli intelligence officials as being poorly prepared.

In the months since, Mr. Trump has retreated from his criticism. He has voiced support for Israel’s right to defend itself and forcefully denounced pro-Palestinian protesters on American college campuses. He has suggested that he supported greater use of force in Gaza.

Mr. Trump has also expressed criticism, saying that images of devastation in Gaza were detrimental to Israel’s global image and were costing it public support.

Since the war in Gaza began, Mr. Trump has insisted that he would have it ended immediately if elected, though he has not provided a clear plan for doing so. He has denounced Mr. Biden and Democrats as doing little to preserve peace, an assertion he repeated in his social media post on Tuesday.

“Millions are dying, and Kamala Harris is in no way capable of stopping it,” Mr. Trump wrote, a new line of criticism against the vice president now that she is poised to replace Mr. Biden on the Democratic ticket. Mr. Netanyahu is also expected to meet with Ms. Harris.

On the campaign trail, Mr. Trump repeatedly tries to paint himself as pro-Israel, citing how he moved the U.S. embassy to Jerusalem and reminding supporters of the role he played in deals that established formal diplomatic ties between Israel and three Arab states.

Since the Gaza attacks, he has often criticized Mr. Biden as being insufficiently supportive of the country.

Mr. Trump has for years been trying to peel American Jews, many of whom are liberal, away from the Democratic Party, a push that has intensified since the war in Gaza exposed divisions among Democrats over how the Biden administration has handled it.

Mr. Netanyahu is set to join a handful of global leaders who have met with Mr. Trump during his third presidential campaign. Mr. Trump has met twice with Prime Minister Viktor Orban of Hungary, a right-wing leader with whom he shares anti-immigration and populist views.

While standing trial in Manhattan in April, Mr. Trump hosted the right-wing president of Poland, Andrzej Duda, at Trump Tower.

Mr. Netanyahu’s visit to the U.S. comes as he faces anger at home over the prolonged war in Gaza and failure to bring home the hostages held in the enclave.

Noah Weiland

Doug Emhoff attacks Trump over abortion during visit to Virginia clinic.

Doug Emhoff, the husband of Vice President Kamala Harris, visited an abortion clinic in the Washington suburbs on Tuesday, a Biden administration event that doubled as a sort of kick off for Mr. Emhoff as he began taking Ms. Harris’s abortion message on the road.

“We’re here because of the former president,” Mr. Emhoff said, condemning what he referred to as the “post-Dobbs hellscape that Donald Trump created.”

He was added to the event schedule late Monday night, underscoring the urgency of the campaign’s attention to abortion rights.

Ms. Harris, during a stop on Monday with Mr. Emhoff to what had been the Biden-Harris campaign headquarters in Wilmington, Del., promised to sign a federal law that would codify reproductive rights, if Congress were to pass one. “The government should not be telling a woman what to do with her body,” she said.

The visit on Tuesday to Meadow Reproductive Health & Wellness, a small clinic in McLean, Va., was part of a nationwide tour focused on reproductive rights and led by Xavier Becerra, the health and human services secretary. The clinic was established last year as an effort to expand abortion access after Roe v. Wade was overturned; its organizers say they spent a year searching for a landlord willing to lease space.

Dr. Jessica Rubino, the medical director of the clinic, once practiced as an abortion provider in Austin, Tex., before the state’s efforts to ban abortions made the work untenable, she said at the Tuesday event. She grew impatient only being able to conduct ultrasounds and talk to patients.

“When someone says they need an abortion, when they ask you for that — that’s when they need their abortion,” Dr. Rubino said. “They don’t need it delayed. It’s wrong of me as a provider to instruct them to go get on a plane and go to another state.”

Now, she added, calls were coming from all over the country to the Virginia clinic, including from communities where she used to work.

Mr. Emhoff blamed Mr. Trump, saying that he “deigns to run for president again on a platform of taking us backward.”

Ms. Harris, he said, rejected the kind of environment the abortion clinic was operating in, “where freedoms are taken away, where autonomy is taken away, where they’re telling you you can’t read this book, they’re telling you you can’t learn these facts. They’re telling you you can’t vote.”

Ms. Harris “has united the party. She’s going to unite the country,” Mr. Emhoff said, then added: “She’s going to win this election.”

Trump says he is willing to debate Harris multiple times.

Former President Donald J. Trump said on Tuesday that he would “absolutely” be willing to debate Vice President Kamala Harris, who has already clinched commitments from enough delegates to become the Democratic presidential nominee.

“I would be willing to do more than one debate, actually,” he said.

In a call with reporters hosted by the Republican National Committee, however, he also said he was “not thrilled” about having a debate hosted by ABC — even though he and President Biden agreed months ago to take part in a debate put on by that network in September.

Mr. Trump’s remarks were his first extensive comments on Ms. Harris since Mr. Biden announced he would drop out of the presidential race on Sunday. It was the second time this week he appeared to try to change the terms of a debate.

On Sunday, after Mr. Biden declared he would end his bid, Mr. Trump posted on Truth Social that the debate that had been scheduled for September should be moved to Fox News, a channel on which he generally gets more favorable coverage, from ABC.

During Tuesday’s call, Mr. Trump — who for months insisted he would debate Mr. Biden anytime and anywhere — told reporters that the debate terms he agreed to applied only with Mr. Biden.

“I haven’t agreed to anything. I agreed to debate with Joe Biden,” Mr. Trump said. “But I want to debate her, and she’ll be no different because they have the same policies.”

Mr. Trump spent most of Tuesday’s call criticizing Ms. Harris’s record on immigration and the U.S. border with Mexico, trying to tie her to an issue he made central to his attacks against Mr. Biden for the last year.

Mr. Trump has repeatedly used the word “invasion” when he talks about the record number of crossings at the southern border, a surge that has slowed from its height earlier this year. And he blames migrants for a host of issues that he says Democrats ultimately bear responsibility for.

On the call, Mr. Trump claimed that Ms. Harris “was appointed border czar” in March 2021, misleading language that Republicans have often used to refer her. The mission that Mr. Biden deputized her for was a diplomatic one, focused on solving the “root causes” of migration that prompt people from Central America to make the journey.

He argued that her views on immigration were to the left of Mr. Biden’s, picking at her record in California as a senator. And he criticized her time as San Francisco’s district attorney. Ms. Harris, for her part, aggressively hit at Mr. Trump during her remarks in Wisconsin and said she would “proudly put my record against his every day of the week.”

Mr. Trump’s criticisms offered a window into how he and his campaign are likely to shift their focus from Mr. Biden to Ms. Harris. His advisers plan to attack Ms. Harris by linking her to unpopular aspects of Mr. Biden’s tenure and suggesting she is more liberal than Mr. Biden.

Reid J. Epstein and Simon J. Levien

Reid J. Epstein reported from Washington, and Simon J. Levien from West Allis, Wis.

Harris rallies exuberant Democrats in Wisconsin: ‘The baton is in our hands.’

Harris holds first rally as the likely democratic nominee, vice president kamala harris listed her campaign pledges, which included expanding abortion rights, building a strong middle class and protecting unions..

So Wisconsin, I am told as of this morning that we have earned the support of enough delegates to secure the Democratic nomination. I was elected attorney general of the State of California, and I was a courtroom prosecutor before then. And in those roles, I took on perpetrators of all kinds. Predators who abused women, fraudsters who ripped off consumers, cheaters who broke the rules for their own gain. So here me when I say I know Donald Trump’s type. [cheering] And now Wisconsin, the baton is in our hands. We who believe in the sacred freedom to vote will make sure every American has the ability to cast their ballot and have it counted. And we who believe in reproductive freedom — we’ll stop Donald Trump’s extreme abortion bans because we trust women to make decisions about their own body, and not have their government tell them what to do.

Delivering a jolt of enthusiasm to a party reeling from weeks of infighting, Vice President Kamala Harris rallied Democrats on Tuesday in Wisconsin and laid out a fierce argument against former President Donald J. Trump.

Ms. Harris vowed, in her first rally as the de facto Democratic presidential nominee, to defeat Mr. Trump by attacking him as a prosecutor would. She defined herself as a tribune of the middle class fighting against a tool of billionaires and as a champion of abortion rights against a man who would deny such rights to all Americans.

Ms. Harris offered a far more energetic denunciation of Mr. Trump than President Biden, in front of a crowd that her campaign said was the largest she or Mr. Biden had addressed since their re-election bid began over a year ago. She walked out to cheers to the tune of Beyoncé’s “Freedom,” which the singer had allowed her to use. As one attendee put it, the moment felt like a release of months of pent-up Democratic energy.

Interrupted several times by chants of “Ka-ma-la,” Ms. Harris demonstrated how Mr. Biden’s withdrawal from the 2024 race and her elevation have transformed a desultory, almost perfunctory campaign into a bastion of enthusiasm. She highlighted the $100 million in contributions since Sunday and took a victory lap for effectively wrapping up the Democratic presidential nomination within 48 hours.

“We have earned the support of enough delegates to secure the Democratic nomination,” Ms. Harris said. “I am so very honored and I pledge to you I will spend the coming weeks continuing to unite our party so that we are ready to win in November.”

The vice president recycled phrases from her 2020 presidential campaign, calling her bid “people-powered” and promising that, as president, she would prioritize the needs of the middle and working class over the desires of corporate interests and the wealthy.

And in a nod to her relative youth — she is 59, decades younger than the 81-year-old Mr. Biden and the 78-year-old Mr. Trump — and her potential to become the first woman elected as president, Ms. Harris placed the 2024 campaign on a continuum with the civil and voting rights struggles of America’s past.

“The shoulders on which we stand, generations of Americans before us led the fight for freedom and now, Wisconsin, the baton is in our hands,” she said. “We who believe in the sacred freedom to vote will make sure every American has the ability to cast their ballot and have it counted.”

The vice president drew perhaps her largest cheers during the section of her stump speech that compared her biography to Mr. Trump’s. She told of being a local prosecutor and attorney general in California who investigated “fraudsters” and “cheaters,” among other miscreants, and reminded the crowd that Mr. Trump was found liable of sexual assault by a Manhattan civil court.

“So hear me when I say I know Donald Trump’s type,” she said. “In this campaign, I promise you I will proudly put my record against his every day of the week.”

She accused Mr. Trump of aiming “to take our country backward” and said Trump allies’ plans, known as “Project 2025,” would damage the middle class. (Mr. Trump has sought to distance himself from the voluminous conservative policy proposals.)

“We know we got to take this seriously,” she said. “Can you believe they put that thing in writing? Read it! It’s 900 pages.”

Ms. Harris arrived in Wisconsin riding a 48-hour wave of momentum from a Democratic Party that swiftly united around her after more than a year of intramural hand-wringing about whether Mr. Biden was its best shot at defeating Mr. Trump.

Also on Tuesday, the Democratic National Committee released draft rules setting the schedule for when it will formalize its nomination. Any candidates must meet certain criteria by July 30. If Ms. Harris remains unchallenged, delegates will begin voting virtually on Aug. 1. The rules will be voted on on Wednesday.

Even before Ms. Harris arrived in Milwaukee, it was clear that local Democrats were excited about the change to the top of the ticket. The Harris campaign said every Democratic statewide officeholder — even the public schools superintendent — would attend the rally in the Milwaukee suburb of West Allis, a stark contrast from Mr. Biden’s last Wisconsin visit, when Senator Tammy Baldwin held her own event 190 miles away from the president’s stop in Madison.

As Ms. Harris stepped off Air Force Two at the Milwaukee airport, Lt. Gov. Sara Rodriguez embraced her and insisted on a selfie , as Gov. Tony Evers and Ms. Baldwin hovered in the background.

Public opinion research conducted by Priorities USA, a Democratic super PAC, immediately after Mr. Biden’s exit from the race showed Ms. Harris generating more enthusiasm than he had among young voters — a key group that had never warmed to the president’s re-election bid.

Among Democratic-leaning voters in battleground states who are between the ages of 18 and 34, the percentage of voters who said they would definitely vote increased by five percentage points in the 24 hours after Mr. Biden’s withdrawal, according to the data, which was shared with The New York Times. The Priorities USA survey also found Ms. Harris faring four points better among Black voters and three points better among Latinos than Mr. Biden had.

In a state in which the vast majority of communities are either deep red or deep blue, West Allis, an inner-ring, working-class Milwaukee suburb named for a tractor manufacturing plant that once dominated the community, is a rare battleground city. Mr. Biden won 55 percent of the city’s vote in 2020 .

In the school gymnasium, the crowd held up signs reading “Kamala” and “USA.” One group held up letters that spelled out “Yes we Kam!” in a play on former President Barack Obama’s winning 2008 campaign slogan.

Among the crowd, the most common reactions to Ms. Harris’s presidential run were “excited” and “relieved.”

“We are part of the groundswell,” said Renee Borkowski, a 56-year-old rallygoer from Lake Forest, Ill., adding that this was the first rally she had attended since Jimmy Carter’s 1976 campaign.

Ellen Holly of Elkhorn, Wis., wore a Biden-Harris campaign shirt but took painter’s tape and covered Mr. Biden’s name. She scrawled over it with what has become a rallying cry for the Harris campaign: “Let’s win this.”

“I would vote for a dead animal in the road before I vote for Trump,” said Ms. Holly, 67, a retired teacher who also supported Mr. Biden.

Other attendees highlighted the historic nature of Ms. Harris’s first presidential campaign rally while expressing cautious optimism.

“I’m worried, but I’m more hopeful than I was last week,” Katrice Battle, 37, a Milwaukee photographer, said of Ms. Harris’s candidacy, adding she was invigorated as a Black woman to try to elect the first female president.

But she acknowledged that once the rah-rah feelings of a new campaign fade, Ms. Harris has ground to make up against Mr. Trump. “It was relief, then trepidation,” Ms. Battle said.

Donald Trump, in a press call, said that he still would have chosen JD Vance to be his running mate if he’d known that Biden would drop out of the race and that Harris might be his opponent. “I’d do the same pick," Trump said. "He’s doing really well, he’s really caught on.”

President Joe Biden boards Air Force One at Dover Air Force Base in Delaware. This is the first public appearance since Biden contracted Covid and announced he would step aside in the presidential race to make way for Vice President Kamala Harris.

Donald Trump, in a call with reporters, accused Kamala Harris of being part of the “willful demolition of American borders” and tried to tie her to the Biden administration’s immigration policy, which he has repeatedly blamed for a spike in crime that has not been supported by available data. Trump’s remarks, focused entirely on Harris’s stance on immigration, were his first extensive comments on Harris since Biden said he would suspend his re-election bid.

Trump said that if Harris, who is not yet her party’s nominee, becomes president, she would make “the invasion” at the border “exponentially worse.”

Vice President Kamala Harris leads former President Donald J. Trump by two percentage points, 44 percent to 42 percent, in a Reuters/Ipsos poll published Tuesday. The survey was conducted Monday and Tuesday — a relatively short period — and Harris’s lead was within the margin of error, according to Reuters . But the survey may be welcome news to Democrats looking for early signs that Harris has a better chance than President Biden of defeating Trump.

Trump, in a call with reporters, said he “absolutely” wants to debate Kamala Harris if she becomes the nominee and that he would be “willing to do more than one debate.” But he once again said he did not want to have the debate hosted by ABC, even though he agreed to a debate with Biden hosted by the network.

That was a short stump speech but, judging from the crowd’s reaction, an effective one for Democrats. Her condemnations of Donald Trump seemed especially to hit home. Biden often struggled to deliver a consistent message against his Republican rival.

Simon J. Levien

Harris concluded her speech, saying that “when we fight, we win!” Beyonce’s “Freedom” is playing again.

Katie Rogers

As someone who has covered campaign events led by Barack Obama, Donald Trump, Joe Biden and now Kamala Harris, the enthusiasm of her crowd looks and sounds much like what I saw in high school gyms in the Midwest back in 2008. It’s much later in the cycle, of course, but this energy was missing for much of the time Joe Biden was campaigning.

Harris delivered a full-throated message on abortion access, declaring to applause that if Congress passed a law to protect access she would “sign it into law.” Democrats had hoped that Biden would press on this policy issue at the debate, but he flubbed his response.

Harris is listing out her campaign pledges, including building a strong middle class, protecting unions, and preserving and expanding abortion rights. They are essentially the same promises as Biden’s. What’s different is the messenger.

Michael Barbaro

How will Harris make her relative youthfulness an issue in this race? We just got a potential answer. She made a subtle but important reference to it by mentioning the generations that came before and the idea that now “the baton is in our hands.”

“What kind of country do we want to live in?” Harris asks. “A Kamala one!” an attendee shouts out, to cheers. She laughs.

The crowd is now chanting: “We’re not going back.” Even on TV, the energy feels higher than the Biden rallies I attended.

“Donald Trump wants to take our country backward,” Harris says. Her reference to Project 2025, a document authored by Trump allies as a plan for the next conservative administration, draws boos from the crowd — suggesting that her campaign's attempts to hammer the plan as a threat to the nation is working, at least among committed Democrats.

“We are focused on the future, the other, focused on the past,” Harris said, comparing her message to Trump’s. At rallies in recent months, Trump has said the opposite, arguing that Democrats are so focused on dragging him down that they have no policies focused on the future.

Harris said that she knows "Donald Trump’s type,” comparing him to the criminals she has prosecuted. The line drew chants of her name from the crowd, just as it did yesterday when she used it in a speech at her campaign headquarters.

Harris is directly comparing her record as a prosecutor to Trump’s legal issues and convictions. In her first campaign stop, Harris is pushing the contrast between the parties that Democrats have already begun messaging on: the 2024 presidential race as a race between a prosecutor and a felon.

Harris points out that there are only 105 days until the election. Even for a politician with a national profile, that’s an extremely short window to reintroduce herself to voters, demonstrate her vision for the nation and shrug off the burden of President Biden’s low approval ratings.

Harris is grinning ear to ear. She is delivering her remarks with confidence, and the crowd is eating it up.

Reid J. Epstein

The beginning of this Harris speech in Wisconsin has the feel of Democrats letting out 16 months of pent-up nervous energy they had been holding in while President Biden was their nominee.

Vice President Kamala Harris walked out to wild cheers and chants from a crowd on their feet, as “Freedom“ by Beyonce played.

Theodore Schleifer Michael C. Bender and Rebecca Davis O’Brien

JD Vance hits the money circuit after joining Trump’s ticket.

Senator JD Vance of Ohio is moving aggressively to raise money for the Republican presidential ticket, making fund-raising one of his earliest priorities as he seeks to convert his donor relationships into cash as the running mate for former President Donald J. Trump.

Bringing in money is always part of a running mate’s duties, but Mr. Vance’s team plans to lean into this role even more than usual. Mr. Vance, who spent some of his early years working in Silicon Valley’s tech industry , has some unique connections among major donors, and he could persuade some contributors who have resisted supporting the Republican nominee to get on board.

Mr. Vance has at least seven fund-raisers coming up across the country over the next week, according to invitations for each event seen by The New York Times. On Wednesday, he is scheduled to headline an event in Fort Wayne, Ind., hosted by the Indiana businessman Bill Bean, a longtime friend and supporter of former Vice President Mike Pence. Mr. Bean said last week that he expected up to 400 people could attend.

On Thursday, Mr. Vance and Mr. Trump are headlining a fund-raiser in Doral, Fla. On Friday, Mr. Vance has two fund-raisers — a breakfast in St. Louis and a sold-out luncheon in Oklahoma City hosted by an Oklahoma banking executive, Mark Davenport, and co-hosts like the billionaires Joe Craft and Harold Hamm. On Saturday, he heads to Minneapolis for a reception.

Next week, Mr. Vance is set to head to California for two fund-raisers, including an intriguing event on Monday in Silicon Valley, where he worked as a junior venture capitalist and a biotech executive. He is scheduled to headline a dinner in Palo Alto, although no hosts are listed on the invitation, unlike the other events on his calendar.

On July 31, he is scheduled to be in Coalinga, in Central California’s agriculture belt, where he will be toasted by John Harris, a prominent farming executive. Fellow hosts of that lunch include Richard Spencer, a major Republican fund-raiser in the state.

Mr. Trump wanted a running mate who could help him bring in big money , and vice-presidential hopefuls like Mr. Vance were eager to flaunt their donor relationships . Mr. Vance is also likely to take the lead on lower-dollar events that may not raise as much money as fund-raisers headlined by Mr. Trump.

Mr. Vance, who lives in Cincinnati and must balance his campaign travel against Senate commitments in Washington, had only one public event on his schedule as of Tuesday as he focused on fund-raising: a rally on Saturday in Minnesota.