Before President Biden withdrew from the 2024 presidential race, the mood at the Democratic National Convention in Chicago was somber, almost as if the event was a funeral procession. Concerned about a potential floor challenge to Biden’s renomination, party leaders even considered a virtual vote option well in advance of the main event.
With Vice President Harris unexpectedly topping the Democratic ticket, however, enthusiasm has surged, transforming the convention into a major media event akin to Barack Obama’s 2008 spectacle. Over 15,000 journalists are covering the event, highlighting Harris and her running mate, Tim Walz.
Democratic Convention Transformed as Harris Takes the Lead, Leaving Trump on the Defensive
This intense focus on Harris has left Donald Trump and JD Vance feeling the political chill. Trump has been relatively inactive during August’s campaign season, while Vance faces mounting unpopularity among key swing voters. For the first time, the Republican ticket appears weak and lacking direction.
The cracks in Trump’s support base have widened recently. Former Rep. Barbara Comstock (R-Va.) announced she would vote for Harris in November, citing Trump’s refusal to acknowledge his 2020 loss and his threats against democracy. This shift is concerning for Trump, who has faced criticism from both conservative allies and far-right supporters.
Conservative stalwart J. Michael Luttig has endorsed Harris, marking his first vote for a Democrat. Far-right influencers, including neo-Nazi Nick Fuentes and right-wing performer Laura Loomer, are also questioning Trump’s viability and predicting a disastrous outcome for him in November.
As MAGA supporters bicker and conspiracy theories swirl, Trump’s campaign seems increasingly disorganized. Meanwhile, Harris and the Democrats are rallying with unprecedented unity. The contrast between Trump’s internal strife and the Democrats’ cohesion underscores a challenging period for the Republican campaign, with Trump preoccupied with internal conflicts and griping about his advisers.
