As the 2024 presidential election enters its final stretch, Kamala Harris and Donald Trump are narrowing their focus to seven key states that could determine the outcome. With just 63 days remaining until Election Day on November 5, 2024, both campaigns are intensifying their efforts in these battleground areas.
The electoral map has settled, with Arizona, Georgia, Nevada, North Carolina, Michigan, Pennsylvania, and Wisconsin emerging as the primary targets for both candidates. This shift comes after initial speculation about potential Democratic-leaning states being in play has subsided.
Harris, who made history as the first woman, African American, and Asian American vice president in 2021, has revitalized Democratic prospects, particularly in Sun Belt states with significant African American and Latino populations. Meanwhile, Trump, the 45th president who served from 2017 to 2021, maintains a strong offensive in Midwestern battlegrounds.
Pennsylvania, a crucial swing state, is receiving particular attention from both campaigns. Trump's team is investing heavily in advertising there, recognizing its potential to significantly impact the race for the 270 electoral votes needed to secure the presidency.
The Democratic campaign currently holds advantages in advertising spending and ground organization. Harris' team and allied groups have reserved over $280 million for television and radio advertising in the final two months, compared to Trump's $133 million. Additionally, the Democrats boast a more extensive network of campaign offices and staff in swing states.
Polls indicate a close race across the seven key states, with Harris showing a slight edge in some areas. However, both candidates face challenges in appealing to independent voters, many of whom find both options unsatisfying.
"I'll feel good after the election. Let's get the hay in the barn. There's still a lot of hay out there in the field."
The race may ultimately be decided by which candidate can successfully position themselves as the "change candidate." With approximately 70% of voters believing the country is heading in the wrong direction, both Harris and Trump are striving to present themselves as the solution to current challenges.
As the campaign intensifies, key dates approach rapidly. The first debate between Harris and Trump is scheduled for September 10, 2024, marking their first-ever meeting. Pennsylvania will begin in-person absentee voting the following week, with early voting starting in at least four states by the end of September and a dozen more by mid-October.
The involvement of super PACs and high-profile supporters, such as Elon Musk backing a pro-Trump effort, adds another layer of complexity to the race. As both campaigns navigate these final weeks, they remain acutely aware that victory is far from certain in this closely contested election.