In a strategic move aimed at bridging party divides, Vice President Kamala Harris addressed a gathering of supporters in Upper Makefield Township, Bucks County, on October 16, 2024. The event, held at the historic site where George Washington crossed the Delaware, was marked by a focus on unity and collaboration, as Harris sought to win over disaffected Republicans ahead of the upcoming presidential election.
A Call for Bipartisanship
Harris, the Democratic presidential nominee, acknowledged the unusual nature of her audience, which included Republican supporters. “In a typical election year, you all being here with me might be a bit surprising. Dare I say unusual,” she remarked, emphasizing the importance of unity in the current political climate.
She framed the election as a pivotal moment for American democracy, stating, “At stake in this election are the Democratic ideals that our founders and generations of Americans before us have fought for.” Her message resonated in Bucks County, a key purple county in the Philadelphia suburbs, known for its history of ticket-splitting in elections.
- Key Themes:
- Emphasis on unity and collaboration across party lines.
- Acknowledgment of the historical significance of the event location.
- Framing the election as a critical moment for democracy.
Harris criticized former President Donald Trump, her opponent, for his approach to governance, claiming he prioritizes political posturing over genuine problem-solving. “Unlike Donald Trump, who frankly as we have seen cares more about running on problems than fixing problems,” she stated, reinforcing her commitment to bipartisan solutions.
Support from Former Republicans
The event featured endorsements from former Republican officials and supporters, including former Congressman Adam Kinzinger, who praised Harris for her dedication to the rule of law and democracy. Kinzinger described her as the “conservative choice” in the upcoming election, highlighting the importance of principles over party affiliation.
Bob and Kristina Lange, lifelong Republicans and former Trump voters, also spoke at the event, sharing their reasons for supporting Harris. Bob Lange noted that the events of January 6th were pivotal in their decision to distance themselves from the Republican Party. “January 6th was the straw that broke the camel’s back for me,” he said, reflecting a sentiment shared by many disillusioned voters.
- Notable Supporters:
- Former Congressman Adam Kinzinger.
- Bob and Kristina Lange, family farmers and former Trump supporters.
The Langes expressed optimism about Harris’ chances in the election, despite facing backlash from some in their community. “The support we’ve gotten from people coming to our farm market is overwhelming,” Bob Lange remarked, indicating a potential shift in voter sentiment.
The Political Landscape in Bucks County
Bucks County has a rich history of ticket-splitting, with voters often supporting candidates from both parties in different races. While Democrats have performed well in recent statewide elections, Republicans recently regained a voter registration advantage in the county for the first time since 2007.
Former Congressman Jim Greenwood, co-chair of Pennsylvania Republicans for Harris, emphasized the importance of voter turnout over registration numbers. “What really is going to tell the tale is how many people go out and vote,” he stated, highlighting the need for effective outreach to ensure that registered voters participate in the election.
- Historical Context:
- Bucks County has a history of supporting both Democratic and Republican candidates.
- The county played a crucial role in the 2020 election, with Biden narrowly defeating Trump.
Greenwood pointed to key areas in central Bucks County, such as Doylestown and Solebury, as critical to watch on election night. He noted that these neighborhoods, characterized by higher income levels and a concentration of college graduates, may see significant ticket-splitting.
Harris Campaign’s Strategy
The Harris campaign has established a strong presence in the collar counties surrounding Philadelphia, with ten campaign offices, including three in Bucks County. This outreach strategy aims to engage moderate Republicans and independents who may be disillusioned with the current political climate.
Andrew Macaulay, a Democratic supervisor in Warrington, described Bucks County as a “very purple” area and expressed confidence in the campaign’s ability to connect with non-MAGA Republicans. He anticipates that many voters will choose to skip the presidential ticket while supporting Republican candidates down the ballot.
As the election approaches, Harris’ efforts to court disaffected Republicans in Bucks County could play a pivotal role in shaping the outcome, reflecting a broader strategy to unite voters across party lines in a time of deep political division.
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