This story at a glance…

1. Harris and Trump rally in key swing states.

2. Harris appears with Springsteen and Obama in Atlanta.

3. Harris calls Trump a fascist; Trump responds to Biden’s remarks and vows to fire Special Counsel Jack Smith if re-elected.

4. Concerns rise over election security and political violence.

Harris vs. Trump: Rhetoric Heats Up as Election Nears

With just under two weeks until the 2024 U.S. presidential election, both campaigns are working hard to rally voter turnout in key states. Vice President Kamala Harris and former President Donald Trump are holding major events as they seek to energize their bases in the final days. Each candidate is focusing on boosting voter enthusiasm rather than introducing new policies, as the race tightens.

Harris Holds Rally in Atlanta with Obama and Springsteen
On Thursday, Vice President Kamala Harris will rally voters in Atlanta, Georgia, alongside musician Bruce Springsteen and former President Barack Obama. Both figures bring significant influence to the event, with Springsteen’s widespread popularity and Obama’s standing in Democratic politics expected to attract a large crowd. This is part of Harris’s strategy to build excitement and drive voter turnout in crucial swing states.

Her running mate, Minnesota Governor Tim Walz, is also campaigning in North Carolina, making stops in Greenville, Wilmington, and Durham. Harris’s husband, Doug Emhoff, will visit Milwaukee and Kenosha in Wisconsin, another pivotal state in the election.

Trump Rallies in Arizona, Responds to Biden’s Comments
Meanwhile, former President Donald Trump will hold a rally in Tempe, Arizona, before traveling to Las Vegas. Recently, Trump responded to a remark made by President Joe Biden, who had commented, “We got to lock him up,” about Trump. Although Biden quickly clarified that he meant “politically,” Trump seized on the statement, using it as evidence of what he calls “election interference.”

Trump has repeatedly claimed that the legal cases against him are politically motivated, though no evidence supports this claim. Speaking to his supporters, Trump framed himself as a victim of political persecution, rallying his base around this theme.

Harris Calls Trump a Fascist During CNN Town Hall
During a CNN town hall on Wednesday, Vice President Harris referred to Trump as a “fascist,” agreeing with moderator Anderson Cooper’s question about whether Trump fits that definition. Harris’s remarks are part of a broader Democratic effort to portray Trump as a threat to democratic values, a stance shared by many in her party.

Throughout the town hall, Harris returned to this theme, often using questions on a variety of issues to emphasize the dangers she believes Trump’s leadership poses. Her comments follow similar concerns raised by John Kelly, Trump’s former chief of staff, who has also expressed worry about Trump’s leadership style.

Trump Criticizes Jack Smith
Former President Donald Trump escalated his rhetoric on Thursday, declaring he would fire Special Counsel Jack Smith if elected again. Smith has been leading investigations into Trump, including charges related to the 2020 election and classified documents. Trump's comments came during an interview with conservative radio host Hugh Hewitt, where he criticized Smith and described his potential actions in office. 

Closing Campaign Push
As part of her final push before Election Day, Harris will deliver a speech next week at the Ellipse in Washington, D.C., where Trump held a rally on January 6, 2021, before the Capitol riot. Harris’s speech will focus on her vision for unity and democracy, drawing a contrast with Trump’s leadership. Her campaign sees this as a critical moment to solidify support in the closing days.

Trump has continued to focus on the legal battles surrounding his campaign, frequently referencing the charges he faces as part of a broader narrative of political persecution. His supporters remain energized by his defiance of the system, as he aims to rally his base in key states.

Election Security and Political Violence
In addition to campaign events, concerns over election security and potential violence have surfaced. A recent report by Microsoft revealed that China-linked accounts have been targeting Republican members of Congress on social media, attempting to influence the election by promoting their opponents. While the impact of these efforts remains unclear, foreign interference continues to be a point of concern.

There have also been instances of political violence. In Arizona, a man was arrested in connection with three shootings at a Democratic campaign office in Tempe. The suspect was charged with terrorism-related offenses after authorities found a large collection of weapons in his home. While no one was injured, the incident has heightened concerns about the potential for violence during this election season.

Reflection
Proverbs 29:11 says, "Fools give full vent to their rage, but the wise bring calm in the end." In a time when tensions are high and political divisions are sharp, we need to remember the value of calm, thoughtful engagement. We are called to be peacemakers and to pray for our leaders, regardless of political affiliation, asking God to guide them with wisdom and integrity.