Beyond Brat: Kamala 24 Real Strategy Emerges. Ranking VP Possibilities. (with Gabe Fleisher)
Jul 30, 2024
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Gabe Fleisher, a savvy political commentator, dives into Kamala Harris's campaign strategies and her approach to vice presidential picks. He reveals how Harris is eyeing swing states, especially in the Sunbelt, while countering a flood of negative ads. The conversation explores her evolving stance on progressive policies and the critical importance of narrative in this election cycle. Additionally, Gabe discusses potential VP candidates like Josh Shapiro and Mark Kelly, highlighting their potential impact on campaign dynamics and voter engagement.
Kamala Harris's campaign is focusing on swing states, particularly Georgia and Pennsylvania, to maximize voter turnout and support.
Harris's media strategy emphasizes significant online advertising expenditures to counteract negative campaigning and enhance her public image.
The campaign is shifting away from past progressive policies to adopt more moderate positions in order to appeal to crucial swing voters.
Deep dives
Kamala Harris Campaign Strategy
The Kamala Harris campaign is focusing on retaining support in the Sunbelt states, particularly Georgia, while balancing potential losses in Pennsylvania. Polls indicate that Harris must navigate a shifting dynamic in swing states, where she might gain support from Black voters but face challenges with white working-class voters. The campaign’s strategy involves recognizing that Pennsylvania is a must-win state, particularly as polls currently show Harris with a slight edge, albeit within a tight margin of error. The campaign's success will depend heavily on voter turnout in both Georgia and Pennsylvania.
Advertising Tactics and Media Presence
The campaign's media strategy highlights the stark differences in advertising expenditures between Kamala Harris and her opponents, emphasizing a strong digital presence. Harris's campaign has significantly outspent Trump-aligned groups in online advertising, constituting a major part of their outreach. However, the campaign is facing aggressive negative advertising from various PACs, which could impact her image if not countered effectively. Harris's messaging aims to frame her as a fighter for everyday Americans while contrasting her agenda against that of Donald Trump.
Shifting Political Messaging
Harris's campaign appears to distance itself from her past progressive stances, especially those articulated during the 2019 primary, which could alienate some of her base. Moving away from bold proposals like Medicare for All and a fracking ban, her team now opts for more moderate positions to appeal to swing voters in key states. This transition raises concerns about authenticity within the campaign, as many voters remember her earlier commitments to progressive policies. Nevertheless, the focus remains on ensuring relevance in the fast-changing political landscape leading into the elections.
Vice Presidential Selection Dynamics
The selection of a vice presidential candidate takes center stage as Harris’s campaign seeks to bolster its chances in swing states like Pennsylvania and Georgia. Potential candidates such as Josh Shapiro are being considered for their ability to drive voter turnout in critical regions. Discussions have turned to the impact of choosing a running mate with clear ties to their home state, as local connections can yield vital support. The campaign must weigh both strategic advantages and the potential loss of enthusiasm from more progressive voters when making their pick.
Challenges of the Current Political Climate
Harris faces the unique challenge of campaigning in a polarized environment where both candidates are often accused of misrepresenting each other’s positions. This climate creates a 'vibes election' atmosphere, where perceptions and feelings may play a larger role than concrete policy debates. Questions regarding Biden’s age and effectiveness as president will inevitably extend to Harris, putting pressure on her to justify their administration's record. As the race heats up, her ability to communicate a coherent and attractive vision for the future will be crucial to the campaign’s overall success.
Beyond the PR, what are the moves being made by Harris '24. She is expanding the map, trying to survive a TV onslaught and pretending 2019 didn't happen.
Also, Justin and Gabe Fleisher discuss the Kamala Harris campaign and the potential vice presidential picks.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction
00:58 Strategic Focus on Swing States in the Sunbelt