As the 2024 presidential race intensifies following the conclusion of both major party national nominating conventions, former President Donald Trump is ramping up his campaign efforts. Last week, during the Democratic convention in Chicago, Trump strategically visited five of the seven crucial battleground states that are likely to play a pivotal role in determining the outcome of the election against Vice President Kamala Harris.
Trump's campaign senior adviser, Corey Lewandowski, emphasized the importance of delivering specific messages to various communities, a strategy Trump employed during his recent campaign stops. Trump is scheduled to address the National Guard Association of the United States’ 146th General Conference & Exhibition in Detroit on Monday afternoon, followed by campaign events in Michigan, Wisconsin, and Pennsylvania later in the week. His running mate, Sen. JD Vance of Ohio, will also be engaging with voters in Michigan.
The focus on Michigan, Wisconsin, and Pennsylvania is significant as these states form the Democrats' traditional blue wall, which Trump managed to breach in 2016 but lost to President Biden in 2020. Meanwhile, Vice President Harris has been experiencing a surge in energy and fundraising since assuming the top spot on the Democratic ticket.
The Harris campaign recently announced a fundraising total exceeding $540 million, with a notable $82 million raised during last week's convention. Trump's political team anticipates a temporary boost for Harris in public polls following the Democratic convention, a common occurrence post-party conventions.
In response, Trump plans to increase media appearances and engage in smaller events focusing on key issues such as the economy and border security, areas where they perceive Harris as vulnerable. Criticisms have been directed at Harris for avoiding news conferences and major interviews, with Trump highlighting her perceived inability to answer questions.
Both campaigns are gearing up for an intense phase of campaigning, with Trump enlisting high-profile surrogates like Robert F. Kennedy Jr. to bolster his efforts. Kennedy, a vocal Trump supporter, recently endorsed the former president and joined him at a rally in Arizona.
As the race heats up, Harris and her running mate, Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz, are set to embark on a bus tour in battleground Georgia, underscoring the importance of key swing states in the upcoming election.
