On October 28, 2024, Vice President Kamala Harris returned to a location loaded with symbolism: The Ellipse near the White House, where, on January 6, 2021, former President Donald Trump held a rally before the Capitol was stormed by his supporters. With Election Day a week away, Harris used the site to address more than 20,000 attendees, delivering her closing argument to voters with an emphasis on moving beyond division and chaos. Her message aimed to resonate with undecided and “low-propensity” voters who typically don’t engage in politics.
Harris Appeals to Swing Voters with Urgency on Democracy
“This speech is truly about the stakes of this election,” said Harris’ campaign chair, Jen O’Malley Dillon, highlighting that Harris hopes to reach undecided voters. Harris’ campaign has increasingly focused on what her team describes as the threats posed by Trump’s “unstable” approach to leadership, with reminders of his promise to free January 6 attackers and prioritize his own personal grievances if re-elected.
Harris underscored Trump’s divisive rhetoric, citing his “enemies list” and frequent references to “the enemy from within.” As part of her message, she pledged to work towards unity by seeking common ground with those who hold differing viewpoints.
A More Dire Tone Emerges in Harris’ Message
Since the race has tightened, Harris has echoed concerns voiced by figures like former Marine General John Kelly, who recently called Trump’s leadership “fascist.” According to campaign advisors, Harris feels that the urgency around protecting democracy is crucial, drawing a sharp contrast to Trump’s authoritarian-like promises. For many of Harris’ supporters, this rhetoric echoes warnings issued by Hillary Clinton in 2016, who cautioned voters about Trump’s temperament and approach to democracy.
Brian Fallon, a senior adviser to Harris, explained that these concerns now resonate more powerfully, saying, “This isn’t hypothetical anymore. Trump has shown what he’s willing to do.”
Swing-State Strategy Targets Moderates and Suburban Republicans
Harris’ campaign has honed in on suburban areas of key swing states, where moderate Republicans and undecided voters may sway the outcome. Democratic pollster Celinda Lake shared that these warnings have been particularly effective with women and middle-ground voters, who express anxiety over the potential for election violence and divisive rhetoric.
“I voted Democrat this time, even though I’m a registered Republican,” Susan Shurina, a voter from Georgia, explained, citing fears about Trump’s confrontational approach.
Critics Question Harris’ Focus on Trump
While Harris’ argument strikes a chord with many, critics argue that her focus on Trump may overlook voters’ more immediate concerns, such as inflation and the economy. Marc Lotter, a former Trump administration official, suggested that Harris’ warnings may be viewed as scare tactics by some voters. “Harris hasn’t proven to undecided voters that she’d be better for them,” he commented, labeling the speech a “desperation move.”
A Vision Beyond Trump: Harris’ “To-Do List” for Americans
Beyond her warnings, Harris emphasized her vision to make life more affordable for Americans, addressing high costs in housing, groceries, and healthcare. O’Malley Dillon highlighted the Vice President’s commitment to providing practical solutions for middle-class families, framing her policies as grounded in unity and aimed at easing everyday burdens for American households.
With just days remaining until Election Day, Harris’ speech offered both a cautionary reminder of recent history and an appeal for a renewed focus on policies that benefit American families. As her campaign makes its final push, Harris’ message of unity and stability marks a distinct contrast with Trump’s divisive approach, aiming to persuade voters that her leadership offers a clear path forward.
