Vice President Kamala Harris’ campaign made a significant push on Labor Day with a series of events in Michigan, Wisconsin, and Pennsylvania, signaling the start of the fall campaign sprint in crucial battleground states for the upcoming November election.
While the Democratic presidential nominee aims to broaden her competitive reach across various states, the focus on Labor Day activities underscores the pivotal role of winning the three 'blue wall' states that were instrumental in President Joe Biden’s victory in 2020.
President Biden and Vice President Harris came together for a rally in Pittsburgh, marking their first joint campaign appearance since Biden endorsed Harris following the conclusion of his reelection bid.
During the Pennsylvania event, Harris expressed her stance on US Steel, advocating for domestic ownership and opposing the company’s acquisition by Japanese-owned Nippon Steel.
Her remarks in Pennsylvania mirrored those made earlier in Detroit, where she emphasized the importance of the 'dignity of work' and pledged to enhance protections for collective bargaining, drawing clear distinctions from her opponent, former President Donald Trump.
Addressing a crowd of union members and leaders in Michigan, Harris highlighted the significant role of unions in shaping America’s middle class, emphasizing their contribution to the nation’s development.
Notable national union leaders, including United Auto Workers President Shawn Fain, American Federation of Teachers President Randi Weingarten, and National Education Association President Becky Pringle, stood alongside Harris during these events.
Former President Trump, who has been critical of labor leaders like Fain, has also targeted workers in the Rust Belt states where Harris and Governor Tim Walz campaigned. Trump has focused on criticizing the Biden administration’s initiatives to promote electric vehicle production and purchase, arguing that it may negatively impact autoworkers.