Vice President Kamala Harris and her new running mate are set to hold a rally in Arizona on Friday as part of their tour of electoral battlegrounds. Arizona, a state where Harris chose Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz over prominent Democrat Mark Kelly, is proving to be a critical battleground in the upcoming election.
Mark Kelly, a former astronaut and gun control advocate, was a top contender for the running mate position. Despite not being selected, Kelly remains a strong advocate for Harris. Some voters, like Gonzalo Leyva, expressed a preference for a Harris-Kelly ticket, highlighting the significance of each vote in a state known for nail-biter races.
Both parties are gearing up for a closely contested election, reminiscent of the 2020 race where President Joe Biden narrowly defeated Donald Trump in Arizona. Democrats are confident in Harris' standing in the state, with strategists emphasizing the enthusiasm for the new ticket.
Arizona, once a reliably Republican state, has seen a shift in recent years. Trump's divisive politics led to a migration of moderate Republicans towards the Democratic Party. Democrats secured key victories in the state, including Kelly's Senate win and Biden's presidential victory.
The campaign in Arizona is already focusing on familiar issues, particularly the border with Mexico. Trump and his allies have criticized Biden's handling of immigration, with attention now turning to Harris. Meanwhile, Harris is targeting the state's growing Latino population with ads highlighting her immigrant background.
Harris' selection of Walz as her running mate has resonated with some voters, who appreciate his relatability. Arizona's diverse demographics and shifting political landscape make it a crucial battleground in the upcoming election.
