Kamala Harris and Donald Trump Make Last-Minute Pitches in Key Battleground States
Harris Rallies in Michigan, Trump in Pennsylvania as Final Votes Loom
With Election Day approaching, Democratic presidential candidate Kamala Harris and her Republican opponent, Donald Trump, delivered their closing appeals to voters in critical battleground states. Harris, 60, addressed a congregation at a historically Black church in Detroit, Michigan, highlighting unity and the power of action. Trump, 78, rallied his supporters in Pennsylvania, where he condemned Democrats and promised to “fix” what he claims Harris has “broken.”
Neck-and-Neck in the Polls
The race remains tight, with Harris maintaining strong support among women voters and Trump gaining ground with Hispanic men. Despite both candidates’ unfavorable ratings among voters, turnout is high. According to the University of Florida’s Election Lab, over 76 million Americans have already cast ballots, indicating a potentially record-breaking turnout comparable to 2020.
Control of Congress is also at stake. Republicans are expected to reclaim the Senate, while Democrats have a chance to flip the House. The outcome could significantly impact the next president’s ability to pass legislation.
Harris’ Message of Action and Faith
In Detroit, Harris urged congregants to vote, framing civic duty as an extension of faith. “In just two days, we have the power to decide the fate of our nation for generations to come,” she stated at Greater Emmanuel Institutional Church of God in Christ. She called on attendees to act on their faith through community service and democratic participation.
Michigan is a crucial state for Harris, with her campaign viewing it as a must-win. After her Detroit stop, Harris planned to visit East Lansing, another key area where economic and social issues are of high importance to voters.
Trump’s Fiery Rallies and Critique of the Election Process
Trump held several rallies, starting in Pennsylvania, where he derided Harris, criticized the election process, and energized his supporters. Labeling Democrats as a “demonic party,” he asserted that he would “fix” what he claims Harris had “broken.” Trump also criticized inflation and immigration, which have been central themes in his campaign.
During his speech, Trump repeated his stance that election results should be declared on Election Night, despite officials cautioning that vote counting could take several days. Democrats have prepared for any attempt by Trump to declare victory prematurely.
Harris and Trump Target Key Voter Groups
Harris faces scrutiny from Michigan’s Arab American community, who are disappointed with her stance on Middle Eastern issues. Trump’s recent stop in Dearborn, Michigan—a hub for Arab Americans—featured promises to end conflicts in the Middle East, although without specific plans. Harris, meanwhile, focused her Michigan campaign on mobilizing Black voters in Detroit.
Harris expressed confidence in the election’s integrity, telling reporters, “We have, and support, free and fair elections in our country. We did in 2020—he lost,” referencing the last election’s outcome.
Final Push to Address Economic Concerns
In the final campaign days, Harris has focused on economic issues, pledging to reduce living costs amidst high inflation. Trump, however, has argued that Harris should be held accountable for economic struggles, portraying himself as the candidate who can restore stability.
As Election Day nears, both candidates remain in a fierce battle, with key states like Michigan, Pennsylvania, North Carolina, and Georgia likely to determine the next president.