To celebrate her first visit as the presumed Democratic presidential contender, Vice President Kamala Harris is scheduled to campaign in Wisconsin on Tuesday. President Joe Biden's exit from the contest, together with the endorsement of most Democratic delegates, cemented her path to the nomination. When Biden decided to step down, polling numbers started to drop and party division was intensifying, solidifying Harris' lead.
Harris secured the nomination swiftly after Biden’s endorsement on Sunday night, having garnered the support of more than the 1,976 delegates required. According to an Associated Press survey, Harris has already accumulated over 2,500 delegates, surpassing the needed threshold. Although delegates could theoretically change their votes, no other candidates have emerged in the surveys, leaving 54 delegates still undecided.
The upcoming trip to Wisconsin represents a crucial opportunity for Harris to reposition the Democratic campaign and argue her strength against Republican rival Donald Trump. Scheduled to speak in Milwaukee at 1:05 pm, Harris will highlight her past experience as a prosecutor to challenge Trump, citing her track record of pursuing fraudsters and predators.
Harris' campaign has seen a boost in funding after Biden's departure, raising $81 million in a short period. This number is approximately equal to the Biden campaign's funds at the end of June. Harris has received financial support from renowned figures such as celebrities and fundraisers, while Trump's campaign continues to bash her by tying her to Biden's unpopular policies.
The change in the Democratic ticket led to discussion over possible nominees for vice president. There is talk about potential running mates like Secretary of Transportation Pete Buttigieg, Governor Andy Beshear of Kentucky, and others. Democratic officials think Harris, the first vice president who is Black and South Asian American, may allay fears that were raised during Biden's campaign and rekindle voter enthusiasm.
