Harris’s Campaign Gains Unprecedented Volunteer Support

More than 52,000 volunteers have rallied behind Kamala Harris’s campaign since she declared her presidential candidacy. This surge of support has overwhelmed local party leaders, particularly in Greensboro, North Carolina. One local official likened her headquarters to a “madhouse,” with up to 30 volunteers arriving daily. A wealthy donor has also funded neighborhood canvassers, further amplifying her campaign’s outreach efforts.

Historic Southern States Now in Play

Harris, a Californian, has carved an electoral path in two historically Republican Southern states: Georgia and North Carolina. No Democrat has won these states together since Georgia native Jimmy Carter in 1976. A recent Bloomberg News/Morning Consult poll of registered voters in seven swing states shows Harris leading Donald Trump by 2 percentage points in both states. This narrow lead, within the margin of error, indicates a tight race, yet it’s a significant improvement from July when she trailed Trump in North Carolina and was tied in Georgia.

Voter Enthusiasm Surges Among Key Demographics

Harris, 59, is energizing voters, particularly those who struggled to muster enthusiasm for 81-year-old President Joe Biden. Kameryn Taylor, 25, expressed strong support for Harris, appreciating her fresh perspective and commitment to women’s rights, particularly on abortion. Voters in both Georgia and North Carolina have praised Harris for her relative youth, vigor, and identity as the first Black and Asian woman to lead a major-party ticket. Her dedication to reproductive rights has resonated deeply with many.

North Carolina Reclassified as a ‘Toss-Up’ State

North Carolina, long considered a safe state for Republicans, was recently reclassified as a “toss-up” by the Cook Political Report. This follows Georgia’s shift in political dynamics, easing some pressure on Harris to win blue wall states like Michigan, Pennsylvania, and Wisconsin. “This race flipped dramatically,” said Michael Bitzer, a political science professor at Catawba College in North Carolina. He described the election as having a “whole new dynamic.”

Harris Defends Evolving Policies in First Major TV Interview

Harris’ first interview reaffirmed her core values on climate change and immigration, despite evolving policies. In her and Minnesota Gov…

GOP Maintains Stronghold Despite Democratic Momentum

Despite Harris’s momentum, the GOP remains strong in North Carolina and Georgia, with Trump continuing to draw enthusiastic crowds. North Carolina last elected a Democratic president in 2008, while Biden’s narrow victory in Georgia in 2020 marked the first Democratic win there since Bill Clinton’s first term. The Trump campaign has dismissed Harris’s gains as temporary. “We believe the plateau has been reached,” said Trump campaign spokesman Brian Hughes.

Harris Draws Disillusioned Voters from Both Parties

Harris has attracted voters disillusioned with both Trump and Biden, according to Chris Cooper, a political science professor at Western Carolina University. In Georgia, Harris’s campaign boasts the largest in-state operation of any Democratic presidential cycle, with over 190 staff in 24 offices. In Fayetteville, an active Atlanta suburb, the Democratic Party has made unprecedented investments, including new 65-inch monitors and full-time security.

Harris’s Running Mate Resonates with North Carolinians

Harris’s choice of Minnesota Governor Tim Walz as her running mate has resonated with some North Carolinians. Sarah McDavid, 53, owner of a metaphysical shop in downtown Greensboro, praised the duo for their support of unity and reducing hate. “Kamala and Tim really support people being themselves,” McDavid said. “They’re bringing a bit more joy to politics.” Harris’s campaign continues to gain traction as volunteers and voters alike rally behind her vision for the country.

Get a 2-year WSJ and Barron’s subscription! Access content on any device, including stock picks, WSJ live TV, audible articles, and more. Stay informed—subscribe now!