Heading into the Democratic convention, Vice President Kamala Harris appears to be exactly where she needs to be, according to her key allies. Just over three weeks after entering the race, Harris has managed to consolidate her support base and attract large crowds to her events.
Recent polls indicate that Harris is reclaiming crucial battleground states where President Biden previously lagged behind former President Trump, with some evidence suggesting she might even be broadening her appeal. Democrats believe the swift consolidation of her campaign is advantageous as she gains momentum while Trump’s team struggles to define her.
With Trump pushing for tough questions and high-profile media appearances, Harris remains focused on her campaign plan
Trump has attempted to shift the race’s momentum through high-profile media appearances designed to push Harris to answer tough questions and clarify her policies. Despite this, Harris has maintained her strategy, choosing to follow her campaign plan and committing to an interview by the end of August.
Democratic strategist Rodell Mollineau highlighted that while the current momentum is favorable, the race remains competitive. He emphasized that enthusiasm must translate into votes and cautioned against complacency, noting external factors like the Gaza conflict and economic uncertainties could impact the election.
As Election Day approaches, Harris has kept a low profile in the lead-up to the convention, with minimal public appearances. She is scheduled to visit Maryland with Biden to discuss cost-reducing measures for Americans. Inflation, once a top issue, is anticipated to resurface as a huge campaign factor in the fall. Despite Harris’s recent gains on economic issues, some Democrats worry about her handling of this topic.
One Democrat close to the campaign stressed the need for Harris to be prepared for Trump’s attacks, emphasizing that her performance in the upcoming debate will be crucial. The debate, scheduled for September, will offer Harris a key opportunity to challenge Trump, who faced legal troubles earlier this year.
Strategist Jamal Simmons warned that while Harris’s prosecutorial skills are a strong asset, her lack of recent debate experience might pose challenges. Despite these concerns, Republicans privately concede that Democrats currently hold an advantage, with a recent New York Times/Siena College poll showing Harris leading Trump in essential battleground states.
Although Harris is making gains, Democrats remain cautious and advise against giving Republicans any potential talking points, such as her limited media appearances. As one strategist put it, while Harris’s campaign has been effective, continuous vigilance and strategic decisions will be critical as the race progresses.
