Kamala Harris’ campaign for the presidency in 2024 experienced a significant loss against Donald Trump, with warning signs emerging well ahead of Election Day.
A pivotal incident occurred just prior to the election when Harris held a rally on the famous ‘Rocky steps’ in Philadelphia.
Though meant to convey determination, some critics interpreted it as an unintended symbol, given that Rocky Balboa ultimately loses his decisive fight in the film—hinting at Harris’ own defeat by Trump.
Another early warning came from the small New Hampshire town of Dixville Notch, known for voting first in the nation.
In 2020, Biden had dominated the town, but this year, the votes were evenly divided between Trump and Harris—a minor but significant indicator of the obstacles Harris would encounter.
Liberal commentators such as CNN’s Van Jones expressed concerns about Harris’ final campaign strategies, including events with celebrities like Oprah Winfrey and Lady Gaga, remarking, “I don’t like these big star-studded events,” comparing them to Hillary Clinton’s tactics in her 2016 defeat.
Although Harris saw considerable support in urban areas, she struggled to connect with essential demographics. As results came in, her backing among Black, Latino, and suburban voters in swing states fell short, leading to early forecasts of a Trump win.
Fox News’ Bret Baier characterized Trump’s win as “probably the biggest political phoenix from the ashes we have ever seen in the history of politics.”
Commentators quickly reacted to the election results. Van Jones, visibly affected, reflected on the loss, while MSNBC’s Joy Reid expressed her disappointment, labeling Trump an “extremist, right-wing fascist.” She pointed to Trump’s language and policy positions as alarming and divisive.
With swing states like Florida and Texas leaning toward Trump, Reid identified elements such as voter suppression and shifting demographics among white women and Latino voters as factors contributing to Harris’ defeat.
As Trump’s win became official, observers throughout the media contemplated the election’s implications for the future of the country.
