Democratic governors from Michigan, Pennsylvania, and Wisconsin embarked on a bus tour this week to rally support for Vice President Kamala Harris in key battleground states. Despite assurances from the governors that their efforts were aimed at engaging all supporters in the fight, some Michigan Democrats have expressed concerns about Harris’ chances in the state, particularly against former President Donald Trump. Rep. Debbie Dingell and Rep. Elissa Slotkin have voiced doubts about Harris’ current standing in Michigan.
The bus tour, which brought together the governors of Michigan, Pennsylvania, and Wisconsin, along with the chairman of the national Democratic Party, Jaime Harrison, made a stop in Flint, Michigan. The event was organized quickly, and attendees like Debbie McIntosh received last-minute invitations. Winning the “blue wall” states of Michigan, Pennsylvania, and Wisconsin is crucial for Harris, given their historical significance in the Democratic Party’s path to victory. However, Harris faces challenges, including concerns about Black voter turnout in key cities like Detroit, Milwaukee, and Philadelphia, as well as frustrations over the Israel-Hamas conflict.
Harris has been intensifying her campaign efforts in the blue wall states, with plans to spend the week leading up to the election in Michigan, Pennsylvania, and Wisconsin. The idea for the bus tour originated on a call between the governors and Harris’ campaign, with Michigan’s Gov. Gretchen Whitmer taking the lead in organizing and funding the tour. The tour began in Wisconsin before making its way to Michigan and will continue on to Pennsylvania over the weekend.
The governors emphasized the high stakes of the 2024 presidential race during the tour, each using their own style to convey the importance of supporting Harris. Whitmer and Shapiro took a more energetic approach, while Evers adopted a more subdued tone. It is evident that the governors are heavily invested in delivering their states for Harris, given the potential consequences of serving under a president who has promised retribution against political opponents. Whitmer and Shapiro, who were once considered as potential vice presidential picks, also have their own political futures at stake.
The success of Harris’ campaign in these key states relies on reuniting a strained Democratic coalition, particularly among Jewish and Arab American communities affected by tensions related to the Israel-Hamas conflict. The governors, with their strong ties to these communities, are working to address these issues on a local level. Whitmer has maintained close relationships with Arab American and Jewish leaders in Detroit, while Shapiro, who is Jewish, has also kept in touch with both communities. Evers highlighted the importance of addressing global issues through Harris’ leadership, emphasizing her ability to handle complex challenges with thoughtfulness and diplomacy.
Overall, the bus tour served as a platform for these Democratic governors to rally support for Harris in must-win states, while also addressing concerns about her campaign’s standing in key battlegrounds. The tour highlighted the governors’ commitment to securing victory for Harris in the 2024 presidential race and their efforts to navigate complex political dynamics within their communities. As the election approaches, the governors continue to emphasize the importance of unity and engagement in supporting Harris’ bid for the presidency.
