Insights on the Attack against Vice President Harris by the Trump team
Even as the Democrats grapple with the fallout of President Joe Biden’s decision not to seek re-election, it appears former President Donald Trump’s campaign team has already begun its campaign offensive against the most likely Democratic front-runner, Vice President Kamala Harris.
Trump Campaign Targets Kamala Harris
In the wake of Biden announcing his decision, Trump’s campaign swiftly launched an attack on Harris, linking her to the administration’s policies. Trump’s team believes that Harris, who has been largely dismissed by them since she took office as Vice President, will be Biden’s most likely successor.
An aligned super PAC has invested in broadcast time in several swing states, with the objective of outlining Harris to wavering voters as someone who enabled Biden, whose mental capacity has been in question.
Trump also acted fast to obtain leverage over his potential opponent by suggesting moving the next debate from the agreed-upon host network, ABC, to the more friendly confines of Fox News.
Republicans Study DNC Rules and Potential Democratic Contenders
With Biden’s announcement marking a significant shift in the political landscape, the Trump campaign made efforts to understand the Democratic National Committee’s rules and bylaws, given the probability of Biden’s withdrawal from the race. Meanwhile, Trump’s advisers ramped up their analysis and criticism of Harris, including implementing new critiques of the California Democrat into Trump’s speeches.
A Series of Negative Ads Against Harris
The Trump team is mapping out a series of adverse ads targeting Harris’ record, not only under the Biden administration but also during her tenure as a prosecutor and attorney general in California. The narrative will come through the Trump campaign and at least one super PAC directly linked with the former president.
Future Scenarios: Selecting a Democratic Vice-Presidential Candidate
Meanwhile, Democrats face an urgent task in identifying a running mate for their probable candidate, Harris. Potential vice-presidential picks are already being circulated, with names including Arizona Senator Mark Kelly, Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro, and North Carolina Governor Roy Cooper being mentioned.
Such a nomination could significantly impact the swing states and potentially pose new challenges for the Trump campaign. Trump’s team has already begun to accumulate dossiers on these individuals, preparing for any eventuality in this unfolding political drama.
Republicans Plan to Challenge Kamala Harris
Outside of ad campaigns, Republicans are planning on challenging Harris on her record and her role in the Biden administration. Key issues expected to be highlighted include border migration, given that Biden had deputized her to handle the root causes of migration from Central America in 2021. Additionally, Republicans plan to tie Harris to America’s inflation woes, positioning her as equally responsible for these issues.
The Changing Political Landscape
The elimination of Biden from the race significantly alters the dynamics of the coming election. With Trump, the oldest major party nominee in history, now potentially facing off against Harris, some voters’ concerns about age may now shift towards Trump himself. The upcoming months will undoubtedly bring heightened political drama and maneuvering as both sides prepare for a historically unusual election.
