Harris Builds Momentum Ahead of the DNC

Senator Tammy Duckworth from Illinois, where the Democratic National Convention is taking place, is optimistic about Vice President Kamala Harris’s rising momentum as the event approaches. In a recent interview on “This Week,” Duckworth shared her insights with co-anchor Martha Raddatz, emphasizing that a consistent message will be critical for the Democrats to gain support, especially regarding the economy. Polls indicate that many voters currently have more trust in former President Donald Trump concerning economic matters than they do in Harris.

Highlighting achievements in Chicago, Duckworth noted the city’s nine credit upgrades and balanced budgets over the past four years as proof of successful Democratic governance. She stated, “We’re going to put the economy back on track.” Duckworth expressed confidence that inflation is declining, and she believes this is a message Harris will deliver to working families, reiterating that middle-income families are a top priority.

When Raddatz pressed Duckworth about the recent polling from ABC News/Washington Post/Ipsos showing Harris facing challenges on economic issues, Duckworth remained hopeful. She pointed to Harris’s economic plan, which features initiatives aimed at addressing price gouging on essentials, expanding the child tax credit, and providing financial support for first-time homebuyers.

According to Duckworth, Harris will delve deeper into these proposals during the convention. She emphasized the importance of placing working families at the center of the economic plan. “Trump is aligned with corporations and wealthy individuals, while Democrats focus on working families,” Duckworth stated firmly.

However, the economy is not the only topic on Democrats’ minds during this convention. Chicago is bracing for protests against the Biden administration’s response to the ongoing conflict in Gaza, which may overshadow the celebratory atmosphere of the convention and raise security concerns.

When asked how Harris could differentiate herself from President Biden regarding the Gaza situation, Duckworth emphasized the need for a cease-fire agreement. She urged that a focus on humanitarian aid delivery to Gaza could set Harris apart in her approach.

Chicago’s Mayor Brandon Johnson, a Democrat with an activist background, reassured that the city is well-prepared for the convention. In an interview with Raddatz, he stated, “We are ready for this convention.” Johnson expressed pride in the ability to manage protests while upholding the First Amendment rights, crucial to democracy.

He added that the local police have collaborated with the Secret Service and other agencies to ensure a secure and vibrant atmosphere for the convention. Duckworth also took the opportunity to criticize Trump over his recent remarks about Medal of Honor recipients, suggesting they reflect a disdain for military service members.

Duckworth, who is herself an Iraq War veteran, highlighted Trump’s draft deferments during the Vietnam War and criticized his reported remarks from the past about fallen servicemen. “American voters have a choice: do they want a five-time draft dodger who denigrates our military or Kamala Harris and Tim Walz, who genuinely care for veterans?” Duckworth posed rhetorically.

Duckworth praised Minnesota Governor Tim Walz, an Army National Guard veteran, for his public service, defending him against criticisms of previous statements regarding his military experience. Despite some controversy over his claims, she underscored the significance of having someone with military experience like Walz in a vice presidential role, particularly in discussions on conflict and security.

In summary, while the Democrats work to consolidate their economic messaging and rally behind party unity at the convention, they also grapple with external pressures from protests and significant topics like humanitarian issues. With Duckworth’s hopeful predictions about Harris’s approach and the focus on working families, the Democratic Party aims to strengthen its grassroots support ahead of the upcoming election.

Source: ABC News