As Kamala Harris campaigns for the presidency in 2024, various voting groups that initially gained momentum from her candidacy are continuing their efforts to rally and persuade voters. Harris, the first woman of color on a major party’s presidential ticket, has energized organizations focused on mobilizing underrepresented communities, including women, people of color, and young voters. While her candidacy has galvanized support, these groups are still working hard to overcome barriers to voter engagement and reach communities traditionally left out of the political process.
One significant group benefiting from Harris’s candidacy is focused on empowering women of color. Organizations like Higher Heights and She the People, which work to increase political participation among Black, Latina, Asian American, and Indigenous women, saw renewed enthusiasm and resources when Harris launched her campaign. Her background and story resonate deeply with their target communities, inspiring women who see Harris as an embodiment of their values and experiences. However, these groups are aware that inspiration alone is not enough; they are actively countering voter apathy and misinformation, organizing events and discussions that emphasize the importance of turning out for the issues these voters care about, from healthcare to social justice.
Young voters are another critical demographic that Harris’s campaign has helped energize. Grassroots organizations like Rock the Vote and NextGen America have seen increased interest from younger Americans inspired by Harris’s progressive policies on climate change, student debt, and social reform. These groups have been harnessing this energy to encourage young people not only to register but also to follow through with voting. Efforts include hosting virtual town halls, organizing campus events, and running social media campaigns to reach digital-savvy voters where they are most engaged. With misinformation and political fatigue affecting younger voters, these organizations work tirelessly to keep them motivated and informed.
Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) communities have also been significantly impacted by Harris’s candidacy. Groups like APIAVote and AAPI Victory Fund have ramped up outreach efforts, recognizing that many voters in these communities feel more represented with Harris on the ballot. These organizations are focused on addressing language barriers, combatting voter suppression, and providing culturally relevant information to ensure AAPI voices are heard at the polls.
The Harris candidacy has undeniably given a boost to these voting groups, but they remain vigilant in ensuring that support translates to actual votes. For these organizations, the goal is to create lasting civic engagement that extends beyond any single election. By leveraging the momentum from Harris’s campaign, these groups hope to establish a legacy of political involvement within communities that have historically been underrepresented, helping shape the future of American politics.