How the script flipped in the US presidential election
Jul 25, 2024
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Vice President Kamala Harris assumes Democratic candidacy following Biden's step down. Explore challenges faced by women in Democratic Party nominations. Analyze reshaping of Republican Party and role of financial resources in campaigns. Discuss potential VP picks for US election and Canada's stake in the election context.
Kamala Harris's prosecutor background shapes her campaign strategy against Trump.
Republican Party faces challenges adjusting campaigns against Harris due to scarce ammunition and complications.
Deep dives
Kamala Harris Secures Democratic Nomination
Kamala Harris has emerged as the Democratic presidential nominee after Jill Biden's withdrawal from the race. Despite this, uncertainties remain regarding Harris's candidacy and how the Republican Party will attempt to portray her. Harris's background as a prosecutor is expected to influence her strategies against Donald Trump, and she has notably rallied substantial financial support.
Challenges for the GOP in Shifting Campaign Focus to Harris
The Republican Party faces significant challenges in adjusting their campaign to counter Kamala Harris's nomination. Harris has already begun targeting Trump's record, particularly in areas where she has experience prosecuting cases. The GOP's shift entails complexities, with J.D. Vance lacking substantial ammunition against Harris and potential difficulty running a racist campaign due to Harris's heritage.
Implications for Canada in a Harris Administration
The outcome of the election holds implications for Canada, especially concerning trade agreements like the USMCA. While potential changes between a Biden and Harris administration may be minor, Harris's stance on trade issues is influenced by her record as a senator and her Californian background, indicating a pragmatic approach that aligns with promoting trade and addressing environmental concerns.
A month ago President Joe Biden was about to debate former President Donald Trump. Everything since then has been a series of shocks that dramatically upset a race that had been static for years. Now Vice President Kamala Harris assumes the Democratic candidacy and will take on a Republican machine that had been preparing to run against the oldest candidate in history.
How does Harris' ascention impact the race? How will republicans try to define her and will it work? How has she managed to reinvigorate a party wherre morale was at a critical low? And what does this mean for the coming remaining weeks and months of the race? What twists are still to come?
GUEST: Melissa Haussman, professor of political science, Carleton University
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