DARK RHETORIC

During the campaign, Trump criticized first Biden and then Harris for their handling of the economy, which polls show is at the top of voters’ concerns despite low unemployment and a slowing economy. ‘inflation. But he showed a characteristic inability to stay on message, at one point questioning Harris’ black identity and vowing to protect women “whether they like it or not.”

His unbridled approach seemed designed to inflame his supporters rather than increase his appeal. Even more so than in 2016 and 2020, Trump has demonized immigrants crossing the border illegally, falsely accusing them of fomenting a wave of violent crime, and he has vowed to use the government to pursue his political rivals.

Polls show he has made gains among black and Latino voters, despite the historic nature of Harris’ candidacy. Trump has often warned that migrants are depriving these districts of jobs.

In contrast, Harris has tried to bring together a broader but uneasy coalition of liberal Democrats, independents and disaffected moderate Republicans, portraying Trump as too dangerous to be elected.

She campaigned on protecting reproductive rights, an issue that has galvanized women since the U.S. Supreme Court in 2022 struck down the nation’s right to abortion.