Kamala Harris Shifts Focus to Trump as Presidential Campaign Nears Conclusion
WASHINGTON – As Kamala Harris approaches the final stretch of her presidential campaign, she’s making a strategic pivot to spotlight Donald Trump and the perceived threats he poses to American democracy. This tactic mirrors the approach taken by Joe Biden before he suspended his own reelection bid, aiming to galvanize her supporters and sway undecided voters in these crucial last days.
Harris is set to deliver what her team is calling her “closing argument” from the Ellipse, a significant location adjacent to the National Mall in Washington, D.C. This is the same site where Trump once rallied his supporters before the January 6 Capitol riot, a moment that has become emblematic of his controversial tenure. By choosing this backdrop, Harris is not just making a speech; she’s drawing a stark line between her vision for America and Trump’s quest for power, an issue that resonated deeply during Biden’s campaign.
While Harris has been vocal about her plans to address everyday concerns like rising grocery and housing costs, she’s also increasingly framing Trump as an existential threat to democracy. Her rhetoric has intensified, especially in light of Trump’s recent comments about January 6, which he referred to as “a day of love.” Harris is reaching out to Republicans who may feel uneasy about Trump, urging them to join her in safeguarding American values.
In her recent public appearances, Harris has emphasized the seriousness of the upcoming election. “You have the choice of a Donald Trump, who will sit in the Oval Office stewing, plotting revenge, retribution, writing out his enemies list,” she said during a town hall in Philadelphia. In contrast, she promised to focus on the needs of the people, responding to their concerns with actionable plans.
However, not everyone is convinced by her strategy. Karoline Leavitt, Trump’s national press secretary, argues that Harris’s focus on Trump indicates desperation. “That’s why Kamala is resorting to the attacks Democrats have been hurling at President Trump for years,” she stated, asserting that Trump remains more popular than ever.
Polling data reflects a mixed picture. Trump’s favorability has remained relatively stable, with a recent Gallup poll showing a 46% approval rating. Meanwhile, Harris has seen a bump in her favorability, rising to 44% last month, up from 34% in June when she took over the Democratic ticket.
As Harris continues her campaign, she’s set to appear alongside high-profile figures like former President Barack Obama and music icon Bruce Springsteen in Georgia, and she’ll be in Texas for an event with Beyoncé focused on abortion rights. These appearances are part of her broader strategy to connect with voters on multiple fronts.
Political analysts have noted that while attacking Trump has been a reliable tactic for Democrats, it may not be the best approach for Harris. Faiz Shakir, a political adviser to Senator Bernie Sanders, expressed skepticism about the effectiveness of solely reminding voters of Trump’s past. “Instead we want to remind you of the worst of Donald Trump,” he said, suggesting that a more balanced approach might be necessary.
AFL-CIO President Liz Shuler echoed this sentiment, advocating for a dual strategy that highlights Harris’s plans for the middle class while also critiquing Trump’s statements. She emphasized the importance of reminding voters of the potential consequences of a second Trump term.
As the campaign heats up, Harris’s ability to connect her philosophical arguments about democracy with the everyday concerns of Americans will be crucial. With the election looming, both she and her supporters are hoping that a focus on Trump will resonate with voters and secure her place in the Oval Office.
