Kamala Harris Sets Record in Election Donations Ahead of 2024 Presidential Race
Democratic presidential candidate Kamala Harris has achieved a significant milestone in her campaign by raising over one billion dollars in the third quarter of 2024. This remarkable fundraising feat surpasses the previous record set by President Joe Biden in 2020, who raised $888 million during the same period. Harris's campaign, along with associated political action committees (PACs), garnered a staggering $359 million in September alone, markedly outpacing her Republican opponent, Donald Trump, who raised $160 million in the same month.
As of the beginning of October, Harris's campaign reported a total of $346 million in available funds, compared to Trump's $283 million. This financial advantage is expected to play a crucial role in the final stretch of the election campaign, allowing Harris to invest heavily in media buys and outreach efforts as she prepares for the pivotal swing states that could determine the election outcome.
Polls Indicate Tight Race Despite Fundraising Advantage
Despite her fundraising success, recent polling data indicates a highly competitive race. According to a Washington Post survey, Harris and Trump are nearly tied in key swing states, with both candidates receiving approximately 47% support from registered voters. Among likely voters, Harris holds a slight edge with 49% compared to Trump's 48%. The poll highlights that undecided voters remain a significant factor, particularly among younger demographics, with 43% of voters aged 18-25 still unsure of their choice.
Harris's campaign strategy will likely focus on converting undecided voters in battleground states such as Arizona, North Carolina, Georgia, Wisconsin, Michigan, and Pennsylvania, where polling indicates close margins. The ability to leverage her financial resources effectively could be pivotal in swaying these critical voters in the lead-up to the election.
