Kamala Harris Fires Shots at Trump in Campaign Launch

AFP/APP

Washington: US Vice President Kamala Harris kicked off her presidential campaign on Monday with a forceful personal attack on Donald Trump.

Her announcement came amid a dramatic shift in the political landscape following President Joe Biden’s surprising decision to withdraw from the 2024 race.

In her first address to campaign workers since Biden’s exit, Harris vowed to secure victory in November, despite the tumultuous recent events. She spoke at the campaign headquarters in Wilmington, Delaware, emphasizing her commitment to the race after a “rollercoaster” few days.

Biden, who is recovering from a recent bout of Covid, made a brief public appearance to endorse Harris. He expressed that stepping aside was the “right thing to do” and praised Harris as “the best.”

Harris’s speech targeted Trump directly, drawing on her experience as California’s chief prosecutor. She highlighted her history of confronting “predators,” “fraudsters,” and “cheaters,” asserting, “I know Donald Trump’s type.”

The newly energized campaign will place a strong focus on contentious issues such as abortion, especially following Trump’s praise for the Supreme Court’s 2022 decision overturning federal abortion rights.

 Fundraising Surge

Biden’s withdrawal, following pressure from party members and a poor debate performance, has left Harris as the front-runner for the Democratic nomination. Her campaign has quickly gained traction, receiving endorsements from prominent figures like former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi and the AFL-CIO union federation. 

The campaign reported a record-breaking $81 million in donations within 24 hours of Biden’s announcement, with a significant portion coming from first-time contributors.

Despite Biden’s continued focus on critical issues like the Gaza conflict, he is largely in isolation due to Covid. Harris is scheduled to meet with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu this week, separate from Biden’s plans.

Political Implications

Biden’s departure has reshaped the 2024 presidential race, turning it from a contest between two aging candidates into a dynamic battle with Harris potentially becoming the first female president. 

This shift has forced Trump, now the oldest presidential nominee in history, to adjust his campaign strategy.

Trump has reacted to Biden’s exit with a barrage of social media attacks, deriding the move as a “threat to democracy.” His running mate, J.D. Vance, echoed this sentiment at a rally, criticizing the perceived backroom deal that led to Biden’s withdrawal.

As the race heats up, the dynamics of the 2024 election are rapidly evolving, setting the stage for a historic and high-stakes contest.