Harris’ Stumping for President Biden

Vice President Kamala Harris, who spoke at a rally last Friday in Orangeburg, S.C., is one among several prominent Democrats who have campaigned in the state for President Biden. Worth noting is that its Democratic primary race isn’t viewed as competitive, however, Harris’ commitment to Biden’s campaign demonstrates a strong strategy to reinforce his candidature.

Shifting Political Geography

Most ambitious politicians have traditionally focussed on Iowa and New Hampshire, seemingly casually engaging at fairs and local fundraising dinners as if they were just in the neighborhood. When President Biden directed Democrats to place South Carolina first on their presidential primary calendar, the political landscape shifted. Politicians now need to build support not in primarily white Northern places, but in a Southern state with a predominantly black primary voting base, representing the modern Democratic Party better.

Presidential Forte for 2024 and Beyond

Vice President Kamala Harris arrived for her ninth visit to South Carolina since assuming office. She has successfully created robust relationships within the state, and her stalwart support for Mr. Biden is anticipated to ensure a comfortable victory in the party’s first recognized primary election in South Carolina. Furthermore, her trip also serves a dual purpose – to fortify Mr. Biden’s vulnerabilities and support among black and younger voters, and to keep her at the forefront for the next presidential contest in 2028.

Early Endorsement for Harris 2028

The state’s influential Democrat, Representative James E. Clyburn, had already expressed his support for Ms. Harris as a future White House candidate months ago. Thanks to his endorsement of Mr. Biden before his state’s 2020 primary election that reinvigorated the campaign and led to his ultimate nomination, his endorsement for Ms. Harris holds substantial weight. “That’s why we got to re-elect the ticket. Then you talk about viability after that,” Clyburn stated.

Final Note

The rigorous efforts made by Vice President Kamala Harris to strengthen President Biden’s stand in the political arena underscores the importance of winning the South Carolina primary. Given Harris’ consistent focus on working for the Democratic party’s benefits as well as strategizing for her future Presidential run, it’s clear that politics in South Carolina, especially considering its significance as a key player in the Democratic primary calendar, is crucial for both immediate and long-term electoral strategies.