As America’s two candidates prepare for the final phase of the US presidential election, the unfolding process will be marked by day-to-day trench warfare and fluid dynamics that can alter the contest in either direction at any given moment, particularly the scheduled presidential debate on September 10.
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US Vice-President Kamala Harris will aim to maintain the momentum she has gained since launching her campaign in late July and further build on the electoral bump from the recent Democratic National Convention. However, her honeymoon period appears to be over as attention shifts from the rallies, optics of party unity and generally positive coverage in the mainstream media.
Harris’ candidacy has breathed new life into a Democratic Party that appeared set for defeat under incumbent US President Joe Biden. Her impressive fundraising attests to this renewed enthusiasm, with her campaign raising US$540 million in the past month and US$82 million during the convention alone.
Harris now gives the Democrats a fighting chance in the election, but she still faces an uphill struggle. Her approach so far could be summarised as sticking to the script and offering brief sound bites promoting a more positive outlook, while letting Republican nominee Donald Trump take the low road of personal attacks and negative rhetoric.
Harris has largely steered clear of fielding questions from the media. She has declined most interviews except for a highly anticipated one with CNN alongside her running mate Minnesota Governor Tim Walz. Her acceptance speech at the convention was a carefully choreographed shopping list, providing a little something for everyone.