In this engaging discussion, Emma Shortis, a political commentator from The Australia Institute, shares insights on the charged atmosphere surrounding the Kamala Harris rally in Philadelphia. They recount the dedication of supporters who braved a mile-long queue to attend the event. Exciting conversations and personal stories emerge as attendees express hope and uncertainty about the upcoming election. They also talk about the significance of women's mobilization and offer a practical timeline for understanding election results.
The massive queue for Kamala Harris's rally highlighted both overwhelming support and the collective anxiety surrounding the crucial election results.
Differences in grassroots support for Kamala Harris compared to Hillary Clinton illustrate a shift towards community engagement and inclusive participation in campaigns.
Deep dives
Experiencing the Rally Queue
A significant point of discussion revolves around the massive queue to attend a Kamala Harris rally, which ultimately exceeded a mile in length. The speaker shared their experience of trying to reach the rally, which showcased the overwhelming turnout of supporters and illustrated the anticipation surrounding the event. Though they were unable to enter due to the lengthy wait, the lively atmosphere of those in line highlighted a deep enthusiasm and commitment from the attendees. Conversations with fellow voters revealed a mix of optimism and anxiety about the election results, emphasizing the event's importance as a historical moment.
Voter Sentiments and Engagement
Attendees expressed a strong desire to witness a pivotal moment in history, evidenced by conversations with individuals who had strong emotional ties to the election. Many supporters, including prominent young women and activists, voiced their hopes for a Harris victory and were drawn to the rally for its significance. While some exhibited confidence, others preferred to maintain a cautious optimism, reflecting the collective uncertainty that characterized this election cycle. The different perspectives shared by those waiting in line underscored the complex emotional landscape surrounding the election.
Comparing Campaign Dynamics
The feeling of this election cycle is notably distinct from previous ones, particularly when contrasting Kamala Harris's campaign with Hillary Clinton's. Grassroots support, especially from women and Black women, has propelled Harris's campaign, which contrasts with perceptions of elitism associated with Clinton's. The emphasis on community-building and inclusive participation has resonated with supporters, fostering a sense of urgency rather than complacency about the potential election outcome. This shift in campaign dynamics illustrates the evolving nature of voter engagement and the impact of grassroots movements in shaping electoral successes.
It's election day in America! But in the dying hours of Monday night (and the campaigns), Matt Bevan took a train to Pennsylvania to stand in queue for a massive Lady Gaga concert — Kamala Harris's final event before election day.
Luckily, you can get the speeches online. What you can't get is the vibe, which was apparent speaking to supporters in this kilometres-long queue.
On the train ride home Matt and Dr Emma Shortis from The Australia Institute decide the Democrats' election-eve vibe was: things seem good for Kamala Harris ... nobody jinx it.
We'll be back on Wednesday evening with an election-night update.