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Kamala Harris's 2024 Campaign Journey

GOOVER DAILY REPORT September 25, 2024
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TABLE OF CONTENTS

  1. Summary
  2. Biden’s Withdrawal and Harris’s Endorsement
  3. Harris's Campaign Launch and Fundraising Success
  4. Democratic National Convention Highlights
  5. Key Endorsements and Political Support
  6. Campaign Strategy and Challenges
  7. Conclusion

1. Summary

  • This report delves into the crucial developments characterizing Vice President Kamala Harris's campaign for the 2024 Democratic presidential nomination. Following President Joe Biden's unexpected withdrawal from the race, Harris received significant endorsements, evolved campaign strategies, and secured substantial fundraising achievements. The timeline encompasses Biden’s endorsement of Harris, her campaign launch, the impressive $81 million raised within 24 hours, various high-profile endorsements from Democratic figures like Barack Obama, Nancy Pelosi, and labor unions, culminating at the Democratic National Convention. Here, critical voices emphasized unity, progressive policies, and collective action necessary to challenge Donald Trump in the general election. Historical support from figures such as Joe Biden, Tim Walz as her running mate, and notable strategic campaign stances on middle-class support, reproductive rights, and gun control were key highlights of her journey to become the presumptive Democratic nominee.

2. Biden’s Withdrawal and Harris’s Endorsement

  • 2-1. President Joe Biden withdraws from the presidential race

  • On September 24, 2024, President Joe Biden unexpectedly announced his withdrawal from the 2024 presidential race, marking a significant shift in the political landscape. The decision followed growing pressure from party supporters and concerns over his performance in a recent debate against Donald Trump, in which he appeared disoriented. Biden's departure set the stage for Vice President Kamala Harris to step forward as the Democratic candidate to challenge Trump in the upcoming election.

  • 2-2. Biden endorses Kamala Harris as his successor

  • Upon his withdrawal, President Biden endorsed Vice President Kamala Harris as his successor. In his endorsement, Biden emphasized the need for Democrats to unite and defeat Trump, urging supporters to rally behind Harris. He described his choice of Harris as his running mate as the best decision he had made, expressing confidence in her ability to lead the party. Harris, reflecting on Biden's endorsement, regarded his decision as a 'selfless and patriotic act,' stating her intent to earn and win the Democratic nomination.

3. Harris's Campaign Launch and Fundraising Success

  • 3-1. $81 million raised within 24 hours of campaign launch

  • Vice President Kamala Harris's campaign experienced significant success immediately following her announcement to run for the Democratic presidential nomination. In the first 24 hours after her campaign launch, Harris raised a remarkable $81 million. This figure includes donations from grassroots supporters, major funding from the Democratic National Committee, and joint fundraising committees. The historic outpouring of contributions demonstrates a strong base of grassroots support and enthusiasm among voters, as indicated by Kevin Munoz, a spokesperson for her campaign.

  • 3-2. Grassroots fundraising momentum

  • The momentum for Harris's fundraising efforts surged due to an enthusiastic grassroots campaign. More than 888,000 donors contributed funds, with approximately 60% of these individuals making their first contribution in this election cycle. This widespread support reflects a large and diverse coalition rallying behind Harris's candidacy, highlighting her potential appeal to a wide electorate in the upcoming election.

  • 3-3. Endorsements from key Democratic figures

  • Harris quickly garnered endorsements from influential figures within the Democratic Party following President Biden's withdrawal from the race. Notable endorsements included those from Democratic governors across multiple states, members of Congress, and prominent activists. Former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi officially endorsed Harris, aiding in solidifying her status within the party. Additionally, key unions such as the AFL-CIO and the American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees also announced their support for her campaign.

4. Democratic National Convention Highlights

  • 4-1. Speeches from Barack and Michelle Obama

  • Former President Barack Obama delivered a 34-minute address emphasizing the need for a united front behind Kamala Harris, advocating for a ‘new chapter’ in American politics. He criticized Donald Trump directly, urging voters to reject the chaos of the previous administration. Michelle Obama echoed her husband’s optimism, stating, 'Hope is making a comeback' and urging Democratic voters to mobilize as the election approaches. She reinforced the idea that they must not become complacent, but rather take action to support Harris and encourage voter turnout.

  • 4-2. Harris’s introduction of running mate Tim Walz

  • Vice President Kamala Harris announced Minnesota Governor Tim Walz as her running mate, citing his extensive experience and commitment to Democratic values. Walz’s background as a military veteran and union supporter was highlighted. His role as a leader in promoting liberal policies in Minnesota positions him as a strong ally for Harris in the upcoming election, particularly in key Midwestern states.

  • 4-3. Unity and diversity themes

  • The Democratic National Convention underscored themes of unity and diversity, aligning with Harris’s campaign message. Various speakers, including Democrats from different backgrounds, rallied support by framing the election as essential for democracy's survival and progress. The convention aimed to project an inclusive image, emphasizing collective action to address the nation's challenges and counteract Trump's divisive rhetoric.

5. Key Endorsements and Political Support

  • 5-1. Endorsements from Bill and Hillary Clinton

  • Former President Bill Clinton and former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton endorsed Vice President Kamala Harris shortly after President Joe Biden announced his withdrawal from the race. In a joint statement, they expressed their gratitude for Biden's leadership and emphasized their support for Harris as a candidate who could effectively challenge Donald Trump. They stated, 'We are honored to join the President in endorsing Vice President Harris and will do whatever we can to support her.' Hillary Clinton also individually highlighted Harris's qualifications and capability to take on Trump, remarking on Harris's experience as a prosecutor.

  • 5-2. Backings from Nancy Pelosi, Chuck Schumer, and Hakeem Jeffries

  • Nancy Pelosi, the former Speaker of the House, officially endorsed Kamala Harris on July 22, stating her backing was 'official, personal, and political.' She praised Harris's strength in championing working families and urged Democrats to unify around her candidacy to ensure a victory against Trump. Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer and House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries also publicly announced their support soon after, confirming that many Democratic leaders had delayed their endorsements to allow Harris time to build grassroots support. Jeffries described their joint statement as a signal of strength and unity within the party.

  • 5-3. Support from Democratic governors and major unions

  • Kamala Harris received overwhelming backing from Democratic governors, including Gavin Newsom of California and Gretchen Whitmer of Michigan. Many governors expressed their support via social media, emphasizing her experience and capability to lead against Trump. Additionally, several major labor unions, such as the AFL-CIO, which represents over 12 million workers, endorsed Harris. The AFSCME and the United Food and Commercial Workers also publicly declared their support, marking a significant coalition of both political and grassroots support for Harris as she moves closer to the Democratic National Convention.

6. Campaign Strategy and Challenges

  • 6-1. Harris’s emphasis on middle-class support, reproductive rights, and gun control

  • Vice President Kamala Harris's campaign has prominently focused on garnering middle-class support, advocating for reproductive rights, and promoting gun control measures. Following President Joe Biden's unexpected withdrawal from the presidential race, Harris outlined her commitment to efforts that align with the Democratic Party's values. During her campaign activities, Harris emphasized building a strong middle class as a defining goal of her presidency, stating, "Building up the middle class will be a defining goal of my presidency. We here know when our middle class is strong, America is strong. And we know that’s not the future Donald Trump is fighting for". She expressed her dedication to fighting for

  • 6-2. Selection of Tim Walz as running mate

  • Kamala Harris selected Minnesota Governor Tim Walz as her running mate for the 2024 presidential election. Walz has a strong record in progressive politics and has previously built a connection with conservative voters. His governance has been characterized by significant liberal policy achievements, making him a suitable partner for Harris in their campaign. His selection aims to appeal to voters in key Midwestern states and maintain Democratic strongholds in Minnesota. His military background and longtime engagement in community issues are positioned as strengths for the ticket.

  • 6-3. Debates and countering Trump’s campaign

  • As the campaign progresses, Harris has prepared to engage in debates against Donald Trump. The two candidates agreed to a debate scheduled for September 10, emphasizing the importance of presenting contrasting visions for the country. Trump's campaign has focused on linking Harris to the policies of the Biden Administration, a strategy that Harris's team is actively countering by highlighting her individual policy positions and experience. During her campaign events, she has faced challenges, including protests about various political issues, which she navigated with responses focusing on democracy and participation.

7. Conclusion

  • Vice President Kamala Harris's trajectory toward securing the 2024 Democratic presidential nomination demonstrated remarkable political adeptness, robust support, and strategic capacity. President Joe Biden's withdrawal and subsequent endorsement significantly bolstered her campaign, facilitating critical financial influxes and aligning key Democratic figures and unions, like AFL-CIO and AFSCME, behind her. The endorsements from Barack Obama, Michelle Obama, and influential political leaders underscore Harris's broad appeal and her potential to unite the party. While Harris faces challenges, including countering Donald Trump's strong opposition and navigating debates, her strategy emphasizes unity, progressive reforms, and a proactive policy agenda. The campaign's future looks toward maintaining this momentum and broadening her coalition to secure a victory in the upcoming election. However, ongoing engagement and mobilization are imperative to overcome any emerging obstacles, with practical steps toward policy-driven governance promising significant practical applicability post-election.

8. Glossary

  • 8-1. Kamala Harris [Person]

  • Kamala Harris, the current Vice President of the United States, is running as the Democratic nominee for the 2024 presidential election. Endorsed by President Joe Biden after his withdrawal, she aims to become the first female, Black, and South Asian president. Harris emphasizes middle-class support, reproductive rights, and gun control while building on her prosecutorial experience.

  • 8-2. Joe Biden [Person]

  • Joe Biden, the current President of the United States, announced his withdrawal from the 2024 presidential race and endorsed Kamala Harris as his successor. His endorsement has significantly impacted Harris's campaign, leading to a surge in support and fundraising.

  • 8-3. Tim Walz [Person]

  • Tim Walz, the Governor of Minnesota, is Kamala Harris's running mate for the 2024 presidential election. A military veteran and educator, Walz's bipartisan appeal and progressive reforms have been highlighted as strengths in the Democratic campaign.

  • 8-4. Barack Obama [Person]

  • Former President Barack Obama has publicly supported Kamala Harris, praising her leadership qualities during the Democratic National Convention. His endorsement emphasizes the need for a unified Democratic Party to present a clear vision against Donald Trump.

  • 8-5. Michelle Obama [Person]

  • Former First Lady Michelle Obama has also endorsed Kamala Harris, urging Democrats to remain active and united in support of her campaign. Her speeches have focused on hope and action amidst the political challenges.

  • 8-6. Donald Trump [Person]

  • Former President Donald Trump is the main opponent in the 2024 presidential election. His campaign has critiqued Kamala Harris and her running mate, Tim Walz, with Trump positioning himself as a strong contender against the Democratic nominees.

9. Source Documents