Kamala Harris and Democrats are focusing on fortifying the “blue wall” states of Wisconsin, Michigan, and Pennsylvania as they face a close and bitter election battle against former President Donald Trump. These states are critical as they were pivotal in Trump’s victory in 2016, and could decide the outcome of the upcoming election. Democrats are also fighting to protect critical Senate seats in these states.
The November election will test whether these three states will remain aligned, as they have for most of the past fifty years, or if they will choose different candidates, potentially complicating the path to victory for either Harris or Trump. There is a sense of urgency within the Democratic party as they work to ensure that Harris effectively conveys her message against Trump’s fitness for office, amidst concerns and anxiety within the party.
Harris is campaigning extensively in these states, appealing to moderate Republicans and independent voters who oppose Trump. She is also working on gaining support from Black men, a core base of the Democratic party. Her campaign is a mix of persuasion and mobilization, aiming to expand support among various demographics, including suburban voters and working-class voters.
Pennsylvania, Michigan, and Wisconsin have historically voted in unison in presidential elections, with only two exceptions in the last fifty years. However, there are signs that the 2024 election may see a split decision due to demographic differences and candidate messaging. Harris lacks some of the appeal that Joe Biden had in Pennsylvania, and Trump has tailored his economic pitch to Michigan’s auto workers.
Advertising spending in Pennsylvania and other battleground states is significant, with a focus on influencing voters in the final weeks of the campaign. Both Harris and Trump are investing heavily in television ads to sway voters. Republican ads are targeting issues like transgender healthcare policies, while Harris and her allies are focusing on tax issues and middle-class proposals. Third-party candidates could play a role in the election outcome.
Wisconsin, in particular, has seen the influence of third-party challengers in past elections. Democrats are concerned about the impact of third-party candidates like the Green Party’s Jill Stein and third-party contenders in 2024. The Democratic National Committee is targeting Stein in an ad, highlighting the impact third-party candidates could have on the election. Voters in Wisconsin are anxious about the outcome of the election and are closely watching the campaigns in these critical states.
Overall, the battle for the blue wall states of Wisconsin, Michigan, and Pennsylvania is intensifying as the election approaches. Both the Harris campaign and the Trump campaign are working to secure support from key demographics and make their case to voters. The outcome of the election in these states could determine the next president of the United States.
