Former President Barack Obama is set to join Vice President Kamala Harris on the campaign trail in swing states, providing a boost for her campaign. Obama, known for his success in grassroots outreach and digital focus, will hold rallies in battleground states leading up to Election Day.

Key Facts

• Obama’s first stop will be Pittsburgh on October 10th, with more details of his trip and subsequent rallies yet to be revealed. He will continue to campaign in key swing states, according to communication director Hannah Hankins.

• By joining Harris on the trail, Obama hopes to invoke the spirit of his successful 2008 campaign, which encouraged supporters to have conversations about the election with friends and neighbors. This grassroots approach was a critical strategy that often goes unnoticed.

• The 2008 Obama campaign also made use of sophisticated targeting and digital tactics, which have since become standard practice. These strategies brought about significant success and may be utilized in future Harris advertising as well.

• Harris’ campaign has hired key Obama pollsters, speechwriters, and strategists, signaling similarities between their campaigns. Both campaigns promote a positive outlook and a message of hope and change, resonating with voters.

How Is Harris’ Campaign Similar to Obama’s?

Harris’ campaign team includes several former Obama campaign members, such as David Plouffe, Stephanie Cutter, and Mitch Stewart. This demonstrates a clear connection between their campaigns and indicates a shared approach.

Jamal Simmons, a former Harris adviser, highlights the campaign’s focus on “a new way forward” with joy and positivity, resembling Obama’s message of hope and change in 2008. This stands in contrast to previous campaigns, such as Clinton 2016 and Biden 2020, which lacked a similar level of enthusiasm.

Additionally, Harris’ campaign has organized mass training events called “Camp Kamala,” reminiscent of the “Camp Obama” programs from 2007. While “Camp Obama” focused on grassroots organizing and leadership, “Camp Kamala” is aimed at last-minute mobilization through tactics like phone calls and door knocking.

Key Background

Obama endorsed Harris in July, considering her the successor to his movement and coalition. Since then, he has been actively supporting her campaign efforts through fundraising events and content. His involvement has already raised over $76 million for Harris’ campaign, and he plans to do everything he can to help her win.

Harris and Obama have a long history together, dating back to their first meeting two decades ago. Harris supported Obama’s 2008 campaign by knocking on doors and fundraising during the Iowa caucuses. Obama returned the support by endorsing Harris in her campaign to be California’s attorney general in 2010 and her Senate bid in 2016.

Surprising Fact

Although Harris’ campaign has garnered attention for its efforts on TikTok and online jokes targeting younger audiences, it is worth noting that former President Trump still holds a substantially larger social media presence. Nonetheless, Harris’ campaign has found success in reaching out to a wider audience through these platforms.