Vice President Kamala Harris gears up for a crucial campaign stop in Wisconsin on Tuesday. She will visit this key battleground state as she nears securing the Democratic nomination. This milestone comes after enough delegates pledged their support to her candidacy.
Biden’s Withdrawal and Harris’ Rise
President Joe Biden’s withdrawal from the re-election race on Sunday has significantly shifted the political landscape. Following Biden’s exit, internal polls showed his support dwindling against Republican rival Donald Trump. Harris quickly capitalized on this shift.
Nomination Secured
Harris won the majority of pledged delegates by Monday night, confirming her status as the presumptive nominee. The Associated Press reported that Harris has over 2,500 delegates, surpassing the 1,976 needed to win. Though delegates could change their minds, no other candidates received votes in the survey.
Campaign Strategy in Wisconsin
Harris plans to make her case in Wisconsin, a pivotal state alongside Michigan and Pennsylvania. She will deliver a speech in Milwaukee at 1:05 p.m. CDT (1805 GMT). The campaign aims to connect with independents and young voters who were previously disillusioned.
Attack on Trump
Harris has begun framing her campaign against Trump, drawing on her experience as San Francisco District Attorney and California Attorney General. She criticized Trump’s record on various fronts, including his legal troubles.
Fundraising Success
Harris’ campaign reported a significant fundraising boost, with $81 million raised since Biden’s withdrawal. This nearly matches the $95 million Biden’s campaign had at the end of June. Celebrity endorsements from figures like Cardi B and Jamie Lee Curtis have also contributed to her fundraising success.
Trump’s Criticism
Trump and his allies continue to criticize Harris, linking her to Biden’s unpopular policies. Trump’s spokesperson, Steven Cheung, accused Harris of failing to address key issues and aligning too closely with Biden’s administration.
Reenergizing the Democratic Base
Democrats in Wisconsin view Harris as a potential game-changer. Milwaukee County Executive David Crowley believes her candidacy could revive enthusiasm among Black voters who were previously disengaged. Her candidacy represents a fresh start for the party.
Vice Presidential Speculation
With Harris now at the top of the ticket, speculation has arisen about her vice presidential pick. Potential candidates include Kentucky Governor Andy Beshear, U.S. Secretary of Transportation Pete Buttigieg, and others. Discussions about her running mate are ongoing.
As Kamala Harris prepares for her campaign in Wisconsin, her path to the Democratic nomination seems clear. The upcoming months will reveal whether she can overcome challenges and lead her party to victory in the general election.