Kamala Harris's presidential campaign is igniting Democratic enthusiasm, reminiscent of Barack Obama's 2008 movement.
The Hill reported that Harris's current surge in campaign excitement parallels the historic energy of Barack Obama's 2008 presidential run. The difference is that Americans can clearly see that the excitement has been created by a massive amount of money and the full might of the Democrat machine.
It's worth remembering that Harris was the least popular Democrat candidate in 2019 and dropped out before the first primary. This cycle shows that the Democrat machine can make anyone into a superstar.
Additionally, Harris's fundraising efforts are setting records. Contributions have poured in from various sectors, notably including substantial support from Hollywood, reflecting the elitist support for her campaign.
The imagery associated with Harris's campaign, featuring Shepard Fairey-designed "Hope" posters and T-shirts, has strengthened comparisons to Obama's 2008 campaign. This visual branding has helped cement the emotional and nostalgic connection many voters feel towards that era.
Democratic insiders are careful not to predict a landslide victory akin to Obama's in 2008, yet there's a palpable sense of optimism. Polls are beginning to show Harris gaining ground, especially in critical battleground states.
Stephanie Cutter, a former adviser to Obama, has publicly noted the resemblance in public enthusiasm between the two campaigns, describing it as unprecedented in recent years. "Haven’t seen anything like this in 16 years," she remarked.
Joel Payne, another Democratic strategist, has echoed this sentiment, noting the revival of the "Obama coalition" which could be pivotal for a fall victory. "It’s the first pure joy presidential campaign on the Democratic side in quite some time," Payne added.
Harris has strategically included several key advisers from Obama's campaigns, such as David Plouffe and Jen Palmieri, to her team, aiming to replicate past successes. This has fueled further comparisons and expectations.
Jen O’Malley Dillon, who played a significant role in Joe Biden's campaign, continues in her leadership role, ensuring continuity and experience at the helm of Harris's campaign operations.
The campaign's messaging around freedom and Democratic priorities like abortion rights also mirrors the language and themes from Obama's campaigns, aiming to resonate deeply with Democratic voters.
Some Republicans have voiced skepticism about the influence of Barack Obama in Harris's campaign. Former House Speaker Kevin McCarthy suggested that the Obamas are steering the campaign, a claim meant to mobilize Republican voters by framing Harris as a continuation of the Obama administration.
Obama himself has been more restrained, delaying his endorsement until after Biden's withdrawal to help unify the party around Harris, demonstrating a strategic, if not direct, involvement in her campaign trajectory.
Despite some Democrats wanting Harris to carve out her own distinct political identity, she is often referred to as the "female Barack Obama." This comparison, while flattering, is met with mixed feelings within the party.
Looking ahead, Harris is set to unveil a comprehensive economic policy platform that will focus on strengthening the economy and reducing living costs for Americans. This move is seen as crucial in shifting the campaign's focus from broad appeals to specific policy proposals.
There's an expectation that Harris will soon engage more directly with the media to outline her policy positions in detail, a step considered vital for maintaining momentum and addressing voter concerns about the substance of her campaign.
Her former communications director, Jamal Simmons, metaphorically described the campaign's need to ensure there's "strong coffee" beneath the initial excitement or "foam." This underscores the necessity for a robust policy foundation to sustain voter interest and support.
As the campaign progresses, Democrats are hopeful yet cautious. They recognize the challenge of translating current enthusiasm into votes, especially in a tight race against Donald Trump.
The echoes of Obama's campaign bring a familiar hope, but Harris's team knows the importance of adding substance to the style. The coming weeks will be critical as they aim to solidify a winning coalition and effectively communicate their vision for America's future.
