Harris Surges in Polls While Trump Labels Her a Marxist: A Political Showdown Unfolds
Vice President Kamala Harris spoke at the American Federation of Teachers’ (AFT) annual convention in Houston on Thursday, July 25, 2024.
Vice President Kamala Harris’s presidential campaign is gaining momentum. Harris stepped in as the Democratic presidential candidate after President Joe Biden ended his reelection bid. Recent opinion polls show her closing the gap with Republican rival Donald Trump.
Campaign Highlights
Harris addressed the American Federation of Teachers in Houston, focusing on economic policy and workers’ rights. She emphasized plans for affordable healthcare and child care while criticizing Republicans for opposing gun limits after school shootings. Harris described her campaign as a “fight for the future” and rallied the audience of 3,500 to join her in this fight.
Fundraising and Support
Following her address, over 100,000 predominantly white women participated in a Zoom call to raise money for Harris and strategize. This event was part of a series of similar calls among different demographic groups, including Black women, Black men, and Latinas.
Polls and Public Opinion
New polls, including a Reuters/Ipsos poll, indicate that Harris and Trump are now on nearly equal footing as they begin their head-to-head contest. A New York Times/Siena College poll showed Trump leading Harris by 48% to 46% among registered voters, a narrower margin than his previous lead over Biden. Harris has also made significant gains in five critical battleground states, with Trump maintaining a narrow lead in all but Wisconsin, where the race is tied.
Trump’s Response
Former President Trump has responded by labeling Harris a “Marxist” in his social media posts and campaign rallies. Trump’s campaign has also cast doubt on a previously scheduled debate for September 10, stating that debate details cannot be finalized until the Democrats formally nominate their candidate.
Endorsements and Campaign Strategy
More than 40 former U.S. Justice Department officials endorsed Harris, criticizing Trump as a threat to the rule of law. Former President Barack Obama plans to endorse Harris soon.
Harris’s campaign released its first video advertisement, framing the campaign as a battle to protect Americans’ liberties. She also engaged younger voters by creating a TikTok account, quickly gaining over 500,000 followers.
Upcoming Decisions
Harris’s choice of a vice-presidential candidate is highly anticipated. Contenders include U.S. Senator Mark Kelly of Arizona, Governors Josh Shapiro of Pennsylvania, Roy Cooper of North Carolina, Andy Beshear of Kentucky, and Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg.
Harris’s campaign has revitalized the Democratic race and set the stage for a closely contested election. Her rise has diverted media attention from Trump, whose recent rally was overshadowed by his continued attacks on Harris.
