Kamala Harris’s Presidential Bid
Vice President Kamala Harris has recently announced her last-minute bid for president, sparking a flurry of activities including increased travel, fundraising efforts, content creation for advertisements, and the search for a suitable running mate.
Rapid Mobilization and Fundraising
Since President Joe Biden endorsed Harris and dropped out of the race, there has been a surge in virtual rallies and Zoom calls organized by activists and outside groups. These activities aim to mobilize support from various demographics, including Black women, Hispanic women, and other groups sympathetic to the vice president. The Democratic Party is known for assembling a diverse coalition of supporters, which played a crucial role in Biden’s 2020 victory.
One of the recent Zoom calls, titled “Harris’ white brothers,” drew tens of thousands of participants and featured prominent figures such as actors Mark Ruffalo and Mark Hamill. Democratic officials like Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg and several governors were also in attendance, further emphasizing the broad support for Harris.
Celebrity Endorsements and Diverse Support
Celebrities who have previously supported Biden’s campaign have been actively participating in these virtual events, underscoring the importance of appealing to a wide range of demographics. The “Win With Black Women” group, for example, saw a significant uptick in participation following Biden’s withdrawal, with over 44,000 attendees joining the virtual rally.
Another event, the “Harris White Woman” Zoom call, attracted a staggering 164,000 participants, featuring celebrities like singer Pink and soccer star Megan Rapinoe. These events aim to highlight the importance of unity and solidarity, with actor Connie Britton stressing the ongoing fight for equality and freedom.
Political Criticisms and Rival Campaigns
On the political front, Harris has faced criticism from some Republicans for her “diversity, equity, and inclusion politics.” However, Democratic leaders have pushed back against what they perceive as racist and sexist attacks, urging a focus on Harris’s political record instead.
Meanwhile, Trump’s campaign has organized events targeting specific demographics, such as black voters and Latino Americans, in battleground states like Pennsylvania and Georgia. This highlights the competitive nature of the upcoming election and the importance of mobilizing support from a diverse range of backgrounds.
