Vice President Kamala Harris quickly secured the backing of influential Democrats for her presidential bid, aiming to unite her party and shift the momentum in a race that seemed increasingly tilted toward Donald Trump. Following President Joe Biden’s unexpected exit, Harris emerged as the clear frontrunner with no major challengers from within the party.
Key endorsements came from prominent figures including Democratic governors Gavin Newsom, JB Pritzker, and Gretchen Whitmer. By Sunday evening, Harris had connected with over 100 party officials, labor leaders, activist groups, and senior Democratic lawmakers, including former Presidents Bill Clinton and Barack Obama, and former Democratic presidential nominee Hillary Clinton.
Campaign Funding and Strategy
Kamala Harris took control of Biden’s rebranded campaign, “Harris for President,” gaining access to its $96 million fund. She is set to visit the campaign headquarters in Wilmington, Delaware, later on Monday to rally the staff. In her first public appearance since Biden’s exit, at a White House event for college athletes, Harris praised Biden’s legacy, expressing gratitude for his service.
Kamala Harris’s takeover of Biden’s campaign and praise for his legacy show strategic leadership, according to wsj paper subscription.
Upcoming Rally and Political Landscape
Harris will kick off her campaign with a rally in Wisconsin on Tuesday, a crucial battleground state. This rally will offer her a platform to address Trump’s challenges and the controversies surrounding Biden’s age. Representative Debbie Wasserman Schultz anticipates Harris will secure a majority of pledged delegates swiftly. As of Monday afternoon, Harris had nearly half the delegates needed to become the presumptive nominee.
Challenges and Criticism
Kamala Harris faces challenges, such as selecting a vice presidential nominee and winning back voters who drifted from Biden. She must also prepare for attacks from Trump. Her swift accumulation of support highlights strong backing from key Democrats and major donors. However, some Republicans criticize Biden’s early withdrawal, claiming it undermines the primary process. Additionally, there are calls within Harris’ party for a more competitive nomination process.
Potential Vice Presidential Nominees
Harris’ first major decision involves selecting a vice presidential nominee from battleground states like Josh Shapiro and Roy Cooper. Speculation also includes white, male elected officials. Notably, Gretchen Whitmer has expressed no interest in the role. Biden endorsed Harris shortly after his withdrawal from the race. Senior Democrats, including Bill and Hillary Clinton, and Senator Elizabeth Warren, also support her candidacy.

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Support and Fundraising
Despite some notable absences, such as Obama, who has stated he will wait until the nomination is secured to endorse, Harris has garnered significant support. Donors from Wall Street and Silicon Valley have rallied behind her, signaling a positive shift for the party. On Sunday, following Biden’s withdrawal, Democrats raised over $50 million online through ActBlue.
Polls and Prospects
Recent polls show Harris trailing Trump by a narrower margin than Biden, with a slight lead in critical battleground states like Pennsylvania and Virginia. At 59, Harris presents a younger, dynamic alternative to the 78-year-old Trump. Her experience and assertiveness on key Democratic issues like abortion rights could enhance her appeal. However, she must address vulnerabilities such as high staff turnover and questions about her political skills and policy agenda.
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