CHARLOTTE, N.C. (AP) — With the final weekend before the 2024 election in full swing, Democrat Kamala Harris and Republican Donald Trump focused their campaigns on the pivotal Sun Belt region, aiming to win over any remaining undecided voters. The candidates presented their distinct economic agendas and competing visions for America.
At a rally in Gastonia, North Carolina, Trump declared: “We have overcome every attack, every abuse, and even two assassination attempts. And now it all comes down to this.” He expressed confidence, predicting an Electoral College and popular vote victory — a feat he has yet to achieve in previous campaigns. Later in Virginia, Trump reiterated his optimism, promising supporters a historic political triumph.
Harris, campaigning in Atlanta, emphasized early voting and her vision as a new leader for America. “I am ready to offer that leadership as the next president of the United States,” she told supporters at the Atlanta Civic Center. Pausing to allow medics to assist fainting attendees in the heat, Harris encouraged voter participation, asking the crowd, “Anybody here already voted?” Cheers erupted in response.
Both campaigns are pulling out all the stops to rally support. Harris’ team is set to air a high-profile two-minute ad during Sunday NFL games, showcasing her campaign interactions and ending with a direct appeal for votes. Campaign manager Jen O’Malley Dillon conveyed confidence, stating, “If you can hear the joy in my voice, it is because we are in GOTV weekend.”
Trump, in contrast, reflected on his decade-long campaign journey with nostalgia, saying at his first North Carolina rally, “This has been the thrill of a lifetime for me and for you.” He hinted at future “rallies for our country,” promising continued engagement.
President Joe Biden, who withdrew from the race earlier in the year, campaigned for Harris in Scranton, Pennsylvania, emphasizing voter turnout. Addressing supporters, Biden made impromptu remarks about Trump, saying, “These are the kind of guys you’d like to smack in the ass,” drawing attention for his blunt tone.
Harris’ running mate, Tim Walz, canvassed in Arizona and Nevada, alongside figures like Eva Longoria, while GOP vice presidential candidate JD Vance campaigned in the same states. The campaign efforts extended across various locations, from Jill Biden in Georgia to Hillary Clinton in Florida.
Supporters of both candidates expressed determination and hope. Marzella and Darrell Pittman traveled from Alabama to see Harris in Atlanta, with Marzella confident of victory but Darrell cautious due to support for Trump among young Black men.
In Gastonia, Trump supporters were equally committed. Elmer Baber echoed Trump’s fighting spirit, referring to recent comments by Biden and illustrating his loyalty to the campaign.
The campaigns’ last push underscores the tight race and the high stakes, with both sides believing the outcome will hinge on voter turnout in these decisive final days.
.jpeg)
0 Comments