Former President Barack Obama is set to hit the campaign trail for Vice President Kamala Harris, providing a boost to her campaign as they head into the final stretch of the election.
Obama’s involvement brings a heavyweight Democrat with a proven track record in grassroots outreach and digital focus.
Key Facts
On October 10, Obama will kick off his campaign support by visiting Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. More details about his upcoming trips and rallies in battleground states are yet to be revealed. According to Hannah Hankins, communication director at the Office of President Barack Obama, Obama will continue holding rallies until Election Day.
In joining Harris on the campaign trail, Obama aims to revive the spirit of “yes, we can” from the iconic 2008 campaign. Back then, the campaign mobilized supporters to have real conversations with friends and neighbors about the election, a socially risky endeavor. Obama’s strategy involved organizing local teams of supporters, who played a significant role in the “get out the vote” efforts.
The 2008 Obama campaign was also renowned for its sophisticated targeting and digital tactics, which have since become standard practice.
This innovative approach to reaching voters allowed the campaign to connect with people on a personal level. These strategies may also be used by the Harris campaign and can be amplified through digital media for effective advertising.
How Is Harris’ Campaign Similar To Obama’s?
Harris’ campaign has brought on board key Obama pollsters, speechwriters, aides, strategists, and advisers such as David Plouffe, Stephanie Cutter, and Mitch Stewart.
Although there are differences between the two politicians, the buzz around Harris’ campaign carries the same positive outlook as Obama’s 2008 campaign. Harris promotes “a new way forward” with joy and positivity, much like Obama’s message of hope and change that resonated with voters.
“This is already a sharp contrast to the Clinton 2016 and Biden 2020 campaigns, which did not have the same authentic groundswell of enthusiasm,” remarked Liz McKenna, an assistant professor at Harvard University and political sociologist. The Harris campaign shares other similarities with the 2008 Obama campaign, such as their inclusive mass training events called “Camp Kamala,” which echoes the “Camp Obama” programs from 2007.
However, due to the shorter duration of Harris’ campaign, “Camp Kamala” focuses on last-minute mobilization tactics such as phone calls and door knocking. Conversely, “Camp Obama” events took place a year before the election and provided in-depth training on grassroots organizing and leadership.
The Harris campaign has also ventured into engaging younger audiences through platforms like TikTok and online jokes. While President Trump has a larger social media following, Harris’ efforts have garnered significant attention since the launch of her campaign in July.
Key Background
After endorsing Harris in July and referring to her as the successor to his movement and coalition, Obama has played a critical role in her campaign. He has raised over $76 million for Harris through fundraising events and content. Eric Schultz, an adviser to Obama, stated that the former president is committed to doing everything he can to help Harris win.
Harris and Obama have a history, having met two decades ago. Harris actively supported Obama’s 2008 campaign by canvassing and fundraising before the Iowa caucuses. Obama returned the favor by endorsing Harris during her campaigns for California’s attorney general in 2010 and her Senate bid in 2016.
Surprising Fact
Harris’ connection with Obama goes back to their early days in politics. The BBC reported that Harris supported Obama’s campaign by knocking on doors and fundraising, demonstrating her commitment to his political agenda.
