Democratic presidential nominee and U.S. Vice President Kamala Harris reacts as she speaks at North Western High School in Detroit, Michigan, U.S., September 2, 2024. REUTERS/Brendan McDermid
Harris to Advocate for Domestic Ownership of U.S. Steel Amid Election Campaign
Support for American Steelworkers
Vice President Kamala Harris, during a campaign rally in Pittsburgh alongside President Joe Biden, is expected to emphasize the importance of keeping U.S. Steel domestically owned and operated. This event marks a critical moment in the post-Labor Day phase of the campaign leading up to the November 5th election. Harris’s position aligns with that of President Biden, who earlier stated that U.S. Steel Corp should remain an American-owned company, even as it faces a $14.9 billion acquisition proposal from Japan’s Nippon Steel.
Campaign Strategy and Key Battleground States
Harris’s speech is part of a broader strategy to appeal to voters in battleground states, including Pennsylvania, Georgia, Michigan, and Nevada. These states are pivotal in determining the outcome of the election. The Vice President, who stepped into the Democratic presidential race after Biden’s withdrawal following a poor debate performance, will use her platform to affirm her support for American workers, particularly in the steel industry.
Tensions Over Middle East Policy
The rally comes amid heightened tensions related to the Middle East, where the Biden administration’s efforts to broker a ceasefire between Israel and Hamas have faced criticism. The recovery of six hostages’ bodies in Gaza over the weekend has intensified scrutiny of the administration’s handling of the crisis. President Biden expressed disappointment in Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s efforts to secure a hostage deal, while Republicans have criticized both Biden and Harris for the deaths of the hostages.
Impact on the U.S. Election
The ongoing conflict in Gaza is influencing the U.S. election, with pro-Palestinian activists threatening to protest Harris on the campaign trail. In Michigan, home to a significant Arab American and Muslim American population, protests over U.S. support for Israel could sway voter sentiment, potentially benefiting third-party candidates. Harris, however, continues to lead in the polls, with a recent Reuters/Ipsos poll showing her ahead of former President Donald Trump by a margin of 45% to 41%.
Fundraising and Campaign Momentum
Harris’s campaign is generating significant enthusiasm among Democrats, with record-breaking donations and volunteer engagement. In contrast, Trump’s campaign has been overshadowed by his controversial remarks and crude internet memes. Financially, Harris’s campaign is outperforming Trump’s, reporting $204 million in fundraising for July, compared to $48 million by Trump’s main fundraising group.
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