With President Joe Biden out of the race, Republican nominee Donald Trump and Democratic nominee Kamala Harris have launched aggressive attacks against each other, signaling a heated campaign ahead of the November 5th election.
Biden Passes the Torch to Harris
Kabul 24: In a sedate Oval Office speech, Biden announced his decision to forgo reelection, saying he believed he deserved to win but his love of country led him to step aside. He praised Harris as a strong leader and effective potential president, saying “She’s experienced, she’s tough, she’s capable.”
Harris Consolidates Democratic Support
Harris quickly consolidated Democratic support, winning the backing of party delegates on Monday. Her campaign reported raising $126 million since Sunday, with 64% of donors making their first contribution of the 2024 campaign.
Obama Plans to Endorse Harris
Former President Barack Obama plans to soon endorse Harris as the Democratic presidential candidate, according to NBC News. Aides to Obama and Harris have also discussed arranging for the two to appear together on the campaign trail.
Trump Attacks Harris as “Radical Left Lunatic”
In his first rally since Harris replaced Biden, Trump branded her a “radical left lunatic” and said he would not be “nice.” Harris contrasted her background as a prosecutor with Trump’s record as a convicted felon, asking “Do we want to live in a country of freedom, compassion and rule of law, or a country of chaos, fear and hate?”
Polls Show Close Race
A Reuters/Ipsos poll showed Harris leading Trump 44% to 42%, while a CNN poll by SSRS showed Trump leading Harris 49% to 46%. Both findings were within the polls’ margins of error.
As the campaign heats up, the Democratic National Committee plans to formally nominate Harris as soon as August 1st, with her selecting a running mate by August 7th. The race is shaping up to be a close and contentious battle for the White House.
