Kamala Harris Zones in on Ground Game in Final Weeks Campaign
Oct 16, 2024
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Marisa Lagos, a KQED correspondent who covered the Harris campaign, shares her insights from the ground in Arizona. Theodoric Meyer from The Washington Post analyzes the strategic outreach efforts to independent voters. NPR's Mara Liasson discusses the intricacies of polling in a tight race. They explore Harris's grassroots strategies versus Trump's, emphasizing voter engagement and overcoming misinformation. With key battleground states in focus, the conversations illuminate the dynamic landscape as the election approaches.
Kamala Harris is strategically targeting independents and undecided voters in battleground states like Pennsylvania and Wisconsin.
The campaign employs diverse outreach efforts, including policy proposals aimed at engaging demographic groups such as Black men and Latino voters.
Harris must balance promoting her campaign independently from the Biden administration while highlighting shared achievements to maintain voter support.
Deep dives
Kamala Harris's Campaign Strategy
Vice President Kamala Harris is actively engaging with voters in key battleground states to build support, particularly among independents and undecided voters. Recent campaign events, including rallies and meetings with diverse groups, reveal her strategy of energizing her base while also appealing to moderate Republicans. Harris has shown a notable connection with voters by addressing local issues and invoking figures like the late Senator John McCain to resonate with constituents. This multifaceted approach aims to not only consolidate her support among loyal Democrats but also attract those disillusioned with the Trump campaign.
Polling Insights and Challenges
Current polling indicates a tight race between Kamala Harris and Donald Trump, often within the margin of error, leading to uncertainty about the electorate's leanings. Despite various strategic efforts, neither candidate has been able to establish a significant lead, revealing the unpredictable nature of the election. Political analysts note that past elections have shown Trump often overperforming in polls, whereas Democrats have communicated better in more recent cycles. The implication is that voter turnout will be critical, as both candidates need to mobilize their respective bases while engaging undecided voters.
Demographic Outreach Efforts
Harris's campaign is particularly focused on diversifying its outreach to include demographic groups such as Black men and Latino voters, addressing any decline in support from these areas. The campaign employs various media strategies, including appearances on popular platforms, to strengthen her connection with these communities. Specific policy proposals, like forgivable loans for Black entrepreneurs and housing tax breaks for first-time buyers, aim to resonate with concerned voters. This dual strategy of widening her appeal while solidifying support demonstrates the campaign's nuanced approach to electoral dynamics.
Ground Game Operations
The Harris campaign is leveraging a robust ground game to maximize voter outreach in swing states, where efforts are focused on both mobilization and persuasion. Activists and volunteers are strategically canvassing neighborhoods, emphasizing pressing issues like abortion rights and the economy, which are resonating across party lines. This dual approach addresses the challenge of engaging low-propensity voters who may feel disenfranchised and encourages them to participate in the electoral process. The effectiveness of these grassroots efforts will be pivotal as voting approaches, potentially making a significant impact in tight races.
Harris's Balancing Act
As Vice President, Harris faces the complex task of distinguishing her campaign from the Biden administration while also promoting shared achievements. This balancing act involves addressing criticisms while maintaining loyalty to Biden, particularly in light of current national and international policies. Strategies include emphasizing her independent initiatives and the promotion of bipartisanship, appealing to voters seeking stability and integrity in leadership. By navigating these challenges, Harris aims to solidify her position as a change candidate despite the inherent associations with the administration she represents.
Vice President Kamala Harris is in Pennsylvania, Michigan and Wisconsin this week as part of a battleground state campaign blitz to turn out the vote and to marshal support from independent and undecided voters. KQED’s Marisa Lagos was embedded with the Harris campaign on a recent stop in Arizona. We talk to her and other political reporters about the strategies informing the candidates’ ground game as this consequential presidential race enters its final stretch.
Guests:
Marisa Lagos, correspondent, KQED - co-host of KQED's Political Breakdown
Theodoric Meyer, national political reporter and co-author, Early Brief newsletter, Washington Post
Mara Liasson, national political correspondent, NPR
