Vice President Kamala Harris is focusing on her work and experience rather than her race as she campaigns across the country. While President Joe Biden celebrated Black excellence at the White House, Harris visited Pennsylvania to talk to voters about helping small businesses, building more housing, and expanding the child tax credit.
Though Harris is the first Black and South Asian woman in her position, she doesn’t focus on this. Instead, she’s making it clear that her goal is to work for all Americans. Her identity is obvious, but she talks more about what she plans to do for the country.
Harris is speaking to minority groups in key events this week, including a Congressional Black Caucus dinner and other online events with groups like “Win with Black Women” and “South Asians for Harris.”
Her approach is different from Hillary Clinton’s 2016 campaign, where breaking the glass ceiling was a major theme. Harris’ team believes that focusing on the issues people care about will win more voters in this tight campaign.
Black voters, especially older ones, are showing growing support for Harris. Recent polls show that many Black Americans are excited about her candidacy, especially since she’s been active in key states where their votes will be important.
While Harris doesn’t focus on her identity, supporters like Crystal McLaughlin, a North Carolina voter, say it still matters. McLaughlin believes Harris is an inspiration for young girls, especially girls of color, showing them what’s possible.
As the campaign continues, Harris is focusing on unity and addressing issues like voting rights and economic justice. Her message: her identity is important, but what she plans to do for the country matters most.
(With inputs from AP)