As Election Day approaches, Vice President Kamala Harris’s campaign faces steep challenges. Like with most things in life everything comes down to a few good or bad decisions, right? What began as a hopeful candidacy has become a defensive battle marked by missteps and waning support even in Democratic circles. Many Democratic pundits claim that the party has somewhat accepted that they will lose on election day. The initial excitement following her nomination led to deeper dissatisfaction within a party that felt forced to rally behind her without a traditional primary process.
Two critical decisions contributed most to Harris’s stalled momentum: her choice of running mate and a disruptive endorsement that reshaped the election landscape. These issues were compounded by her vague policy positions during interviews and her close association with the Biden administration’s mixed legacy. All of these factors culminated in a significant shift among voters, who now make what they see as the logical choice to support former President Donald Trump.
The Controversial Running Mate Pick
On August 6, Harris selected Minnesota Governor Tim Walz as her running mate, a move that sparked immediate debate within an already uneasy party. Many Democrats had hoped for Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro, whose moderate stance could have provided balance and appealed to crucial swing state voters. His selection would have strengthened the ticket by bridging ideological divides and shoring up key electoral support.
Instead, Walz’s record came with significant baggage. Issues ranging from an embellished military service history and a past DUI to problematic ties with foreign officials quickly surfaced. His handling of civil unrest in Minnesota only added to perceptions of weak leadership. These controversies forced Harris to pivot to damage control rather than focus on promoting her campaign’s vision and policies.
Walz’s debate performance on October 10 against Senator JD Vance further highlighted the decision’s impact. Vance’s poised and effective approach made Walz appear underprepared, exacerbating concerns about the ticket’s competence and readiness.
Kennedy’s Endorsement and Its Impact
On August 23, the second major blow landed when Robert F. Kennedy Jr. suspended his independent presidential run and endorsed Donald Trump. The timing—just days after the Democratic National Convention—was a strategic setback for Harris, overshadowing the positive momentum her campaign needed. Kennedy’s endorsement carried weight with voters looking for authenticity and a leader willing to challenge the status quo.
Kennedy’s reputation as a principled and unconventional thinker resonated deeply with moderates and independents, pulling potential support away from Harris. This was particularly evident among parents concerned with public health issues, who viewed Kennedy’s endorsement as a reason to reconsider their vote. Trump, benefiting from this shift, drew support from voters seeking decisive leadership and a return to core values.
Harris’s Vague Plans and the Biden Legacy
Harris’s struggle was not limited to external disruptions. Interviews throughout her campaign showed a recurring issue: a lack of specific, actionable plans on major issues. This reinforced voter skepticism and fueled doubts about her preparedness to lead.
Adding to this burden was her close association with the Biden administration, which faced criticism over economic hurdles, foreign policy missteps, and legislative standoffs. Voters increasingly viewed Harris as a continuation of an administration that had not met their expectations, further sapping enthusiasm from her base.
The Logical Shift Among Voters
Faced with these cumulative setbacks, many voters are making what they perceive as a logical choice: to support former President Trump. For them, Harris’s campaign represents uncertainty and repeated strategic misjudgments, while Trump is seen as a familiar figure promising a return to strong, decisive governance.
The consequences of these pivotal decisions—picking Walz, losing Kennedy’s potential voter base, and failing to present a clear agenda—have defined Harris’s campaign in the final days. This cycle serves as a cautionary tale not just for her candidacy but for the Democratic Party as it contemplates its future strategies and leadership.
RibotskyInstitute.com 
Leave a comment