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Kamala Harris Reaches Out to Republicans, Pledges Bipartisan Advisory Council

Kamala Harris, in a key campaign stop in Arizona, pledged to create a bipartisan council of advisers if elected president, in a significant outreach to Republicans and independents. This move underscores her efforts to position herself as a unifier, critical in a state where the election could be decided by swing voters.

Vice President Kamala Harris has made overtures to Republicans to an unprecedented degree in modern U.S. presidential politics. | Ross D. Franklin/AP

Kamala Harris Seeks Bipartisan Support in Arizona

Vice President Kamala Harris continues to extend her efforts to reach across the aisle, promising to create a bipartisan advisory council if elected president. This announcement came during a campaign stop in Arizona, a crucial battleground state that could determine the outcome of the 2024 election.

Harris emphasized the importance of collaboration, stating that maintaining a healthy two-party system is essential for the U.S. to remain a strong democracy. Her remarks in Scottsdale reflect a broader strategy to appeal to independents and moderate Republicans who could play a pivotal role in the upcoming election.

A Focus on Bipartisanship

During her Arizona campaign, Harris made an unprecedented move for modern U.S. presidential candidates by pledging to include Republicans in her administration. She noted that she would appoint GOP members to her Cabinet and form a bipartisan council of advisers to help shape policy.

This outreach follows Harris’ previous efforts, where she campaigned alongside conservative figures like Rep. Liz Cheney and garnered endorsements from Republican officials. While no specifics were given about the proposed council, Harris’ message aims to attract voters from across the political spectrum in a state where Republicans outnumber Democrats.

Arizona’s Importance in 2024

Arizona is seen as a critical swing state in the 2024 election. In 2020, it became a rare victory for a Democratic presidential candidate, with Joe Biden being the first Democrat to win the state since 1948. As polls show Harris and Trump in a tight race, securing Arizona’s support is vital for both campaigns.

A recent Wall Street Journal poll showed Trump leading Harris 46% to 45% across all swing states. However, Harris held a slight two-point lead in Arizona. These tight margins highlight the importance of swing voters, particularly independents and disaffected Republicans, in deciding the election’s outcome.

Harris’ Call for Unity

Harris has positioned herself as a candidate for all Americans, emphasizing unity and common ground in her speeches. In Arizona, she reiterated her commitment to working together, stating, “I am committed to all of you to be a president for all Americans and to work as we must — together — again, knowing we have so much more in common than what separates us.”

Her call for unity, alongside her bipartisan outreach, is a clear strategy to expand her base beyond traditional Democratic voters and appeal to moderates and Republicans, especially in key battleground states like Arizona.

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