Janice R. Andrews
WEST ALLIS – Vice President Kamala Harris made a strong opening defense against Donald Trump’s candidacy for a second term in office on Tuesday in Wisconsin, a crucial state for the 2017 election. Speaking before a full gymnasium outside of Milwaukee, Harris presented a strong argument for her outlook on the future of the United States.
A Question to Define America
“Ultimately in this election, we each face a question: What kind of country do we want to live in?” In front of West Allis Central High School, Harris posed the question. “Do we want to live in a country of freedom, compassion, and rule of law, or a country of chaos, fear, and hate?” This query framed her first appearance on the campaign trail as the likely Democratic nominee.
It happened only two days after 81-year-old President Joe Biden withdrew from the campaign and backed 59-year-old Harris, sparking weeks of rumors about Biden’s age and suitability. This abrupt change in direction occurred just a few days after Republicans in Milwaukee re-nominated Trump, 78, amid heightened tensions following an assassination attempt.
A Stunning Difference with Trump
Harris made an effort to set herself apart from Trump’s campaign. She highlighted her experience as the district attorney of San Francisco and the attorney general of California, underscoring her dedication to justice and law enforcement. “In those roles, I took on perpetrators of all kinds,” she remarked in response to the boisterous “Lock him up” cries from the fervent assembly. “So hear me when I say I know Donald Trump’s type.”
She listed the freedom of workers to organize, access to cheap healthcare, and the right to an abortion as three of her campaign’s main concerns. She also promised to expand on Biden’s legacy, calling it “unmatched in modern history,” with a particular emphasis on bolstering the middle class.
Harris said, “But Donald Trump wants to take our country backward.” “He and his extreme Project 2025 agenda would weaken the middle class.” She compared Trump’s fixation on the past with her own vision of the future.
Wisconsin: An Important Front
Wisconsin’s selection for her first rally highlights the significance of the state in the 2024 election. Wisconsin went to Biden by a mere 20,000 votes in 2020, which is comparable to Trump’s winning margin in 2016. Harris made her ninth trip to Wisconsin since taking office as vice president, and her fifth this year, when she appeared in West Allis.
Professor Julia Azari of Marquette University, who teaches political science, said that the campaign’s decision to launch in Wisconsin responds to criticism leveled at the 2016 Clinton campaign for not stopping in the state after the primary. “I think it illustrates a likelihood that this will be the tipping-point state,” Azari stated.
Wide-Reaching Backing from Democratic Leaders
With 93% of Wisconsin’s DNC delegates promising support, Harris garnered enough delegates on Monday to become the Democratic nominee for president, according to the state Democratic Party. In order to choose the nominee before the August 7 deadline and in time for the Democratic National Convention in Chicago, the Democratic Party intends to conduct a virtual vote.
The political situation has changed dramatically in the last 48 hours. Now, Republicans have to get used to confronting Harris in November rather than Biden.
Reaction from the Republicans
Republicans in Wisconsin minimized the significance of Biden’s departure, presenting Harris as an integral part of Biden’s team. “Vice President Harris is the Joe Biden of the sequel,” stated Republican Party of Wisconsin Chairman Brian Schimming. In line with this attitude, Eric Hovde, a candidate for the Senate, said that Harris “owns the Biden record” and referred to her as “one of the most extreme liberals.”
The party’s unity was highlighted by Harris’ presence with Democratic Senator Tammy Baldwin, who has occasionally distanced herself from Biden. Harris’s fellow Air Force 2 pilot Baldwin referred to the day as “a new beginning for our party, for our country.”
Republicans tried to portray Harris as a radical, but Wisconsin Democrats highlighted her credentials and her willingness to take on Trump. “Kamala Harris is the most qualified individual to pursue the case against Donald Trump,” stated Democratic Party of Wisconsin Chairman Ben Wikler.
A Rekindled Vigor
The mood of the gymnasium was one of revitalized Democratic enthusiasm. As cheerful music played, fans crowded the arena, brandishing placards that read “USA” and “Kamala,” and screaming her name. People in attendance were thrilled to see Harris headline the ticket.
The 29-year-old Emily Fremgen described Biden’s choice to support Harris as “amazing.” “It’s time that it’s a woman and not an old white man making decisions for the country,” she stated. “I was excited.”
A Close Relationship
Harris acknowledged in her remarks that she was a native of Wisconsin, having spent her early years in Madison. Governor Tony Evers of Wisconsin emphasized these connections, highlighting the significance of the state to her candidacy.
“The path to the White House goes through Wisconsin,” Harris stated. “And we are counting on you right here in Milwaukee.”
With 105 days before Election Day, Harris’ speech in Wisconsin established the platform for a campaign emphasizing justice and compassion in stark contrast to Trump’s agenda. Both sides are getting ready for a tough fight as the race for the swing state begins underway.
