In her first rally since taking over the Democratic presidential campaign, Vice President Kamala Harris launched a sharp attack on Donald Trump, framing the upcoming election as a battle between a former prosecutor and a convicted felon. Addressing a crowd of approximately 3,000 supporters in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, Harris highlighted her experience as California's attorney general, drawing a stark contrast between herself and Trump.
"I took on perpetrators of all kinds," Harris declared. "Predators who abused women. Fraudsters who ripped off consumers. Cheaters who broke the rules for their own gain. So hear me when I say I know Donald Trump's type." The crowd responded enthusiastically, chanting "Kamala! Kamala!" and "lock him up," reminiscent of the slogans used by Trump supporters against Hillary Clinton in 2016.
This rally marked the official start of Harris's campaign following President Joe Biden's withdrawal from the race and his endorsement of Harris. Biden's exit came amid growing pressure from top Democrats and donors after a poor performance in a recent debate against Trump. The campaign has already gained significant momentum, raising over $100 million in the 36 hours following Biden's departure.
Recent polls reflect a competitive race, with a Reuters and Ipsos survey showing Harris holding a two-point lead over Trump, 44% to 42%. This surge in support underscores Harris's appeal to Democratic voters and her potential to galvanize the base.
However, Harris's tenure as vice president has not been without controversy. She has faced criticism for her management style, which some former staffers have described as "soul-destroying." Nine out of ten people who worked for her over the past four years have reportedly left due to the challenging work environment. Despite these issues, Harris's campaign is pushing forward with a message of change and accountability.
Trump, on the other hand, has not shied away from attacking Harris. On his social media platform, Truth Social, Trump labeled her as "Lyin' Kamala Harris" and criticized her record on immigration and border control. He also emphasized her low approval ratings, calling her the most unpopular vice president in U.S. history. "She's a radical left person, but this country doesn't want a radical left person to destroy it," Trump said during a call with reporters.
In her speech, Harris laid out a series of liberal priorities, including gun control, abortion access, child poverty, union rights, and affordable healthcare. "Do we want to live in a country of freedom, compassion, and rule of law, or a country of chaos, fear, and hate?" she asked the audience, framing the election as a critical choice for the future of the nation.
As the campaign heats up, Harris's team is also in the process of vetting potential running mates. Historical trends suggest she may select a white male from a swing state to balance the ticket. Democratic leaders, including House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries and Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer, have already endorsed her candidacy, lending significant weight to her campaign.
Adding to her support, Hollywood stars like George Clooney, Barbra Streisand, and Jamie Lee Curtis have also backed Harris, potentially opening up further avenues for substantial donations. The influx of high-profile endorsements and financial backing positions Harris strongly as she navigates the final stretch of the campaign.
On Wednesday, President Biden is expected to address the nation from the Oval Office to explain his decision to withdraw from the race and to endorse Harris. Biden, who has been recovering from COVID-19, returned to the White House on Tuesday. His endorsement marks a significant shift in the Democratic campaign strategy and underscores the party's commitment to rallying behind Harris as their nominee.
In a related development, Republican Representative Andy Ogles of Tennessee introduced articles of impeachment against Harris, accusing her of high crimes and misdemeanors over her handling of immigration at the border. However, this resolution is unlikely to gain traction.
