**Thousands Turn Out for Kamala Harris Rally at Shell Energy Stadium Amid Houston Heat**

In Houston on Friday, October 25, 2024, Shell Energy Stadium became a bustling epicenter of political enthusiasm as thousands of supporters gathered early for a rally hosted by Vice President Kamala Harris. Despite the sweltering heat, attendees donned campaign pins, waved signs, and displayed unwavering support.

The rally, located in Houston’s East Downtown area, began at 3 p.m. and was set to continue until 8 p.m. Long lines had formed well before the start time, with people like Maddison Heard, 9, shielding themselves from the sun with fans while their guardians sought medical attention for heat-related issues. With temperatures reaching 89 degrees, cold packs were distributed to help mitigate the heat discomfort.

The Shell Energy Stadium, formerly known as BBVA Compass Stadium, is a notable venue in Houston, regularly hosting the Houston Dynamo and Houston Dash soccer teams. Accessible via the Green and Purple MetroRail lines, the stadium saw an influx of rideshare vehicles dropping off rally-goers. Among the attendees were prominent figures like Houston native Beyoncé, Willie Nelson, and DJ Tryfe, who were set to join Harris at the event.

While the stadium has a capacity of 20,656 seats, the event operated on a first-come, first-served basis. Organizers emphasized the importance of securing a spot early and adhering to the venue's security protocols. Attendees were advised to bring printed or digital tickets, photo IDs, and limited personal items as specified by the stadium's bag policy.

As the rally progressed, concessions were available to those inside, providing some relief from the day's high temperatures. The event underscored a critical period in the electoral timeline, taking place just 11 days before Election Day and during the close of the first week of early voting in Texas.

This visit by Harris marks an unusual but not unprecedented moment in presidential campaign history, echoing President George W. Bush's final campaign stop in Dallas before the 2004 election. The Vice President’s appearance in Houston highlights the state’s significance in the closing days of the election season.