This story at a glance…

1. Trump held a major rally in Pennsylvania with Elon Musk, drawing 20,000 supporters.

2. Harris is focusing on media outreach, with appearances on Call Her Daddy and 60 Minutes.

3. Trump uses his rallies for earned media, while Harris relies on substantial ad spending.

4. Running mates Walz and Vance face tough questions and showcase contrasting styles.

Presidential Race: A Month to Go

As Election Day draws closer, Vice President Kamala Harris and former President Donald Trump are ramping up their campaigns with a flurry of public appearances and interviews. With early voting already underway in some states, both candidates are working to capture the attention of undecided voters through a mix of traditional media and town hall events. Let’s look closer at their strategies as they work to sway voters in this final stretch.

Harris’ Media Blitz: Aiming for Diverse Audiences
Vice President Kamala Harris has been busy this week, stepping outside the usual political playbook to connect with a wide range of voters. She appeared on Call Her Daddy, a popular podcast aimed at Gen Z and Millennial women, where she discussed reproductive rights and her approach to economic issues. Harris spoke candidly about the criticism she’s faced as a childless woman, calling such attacks “mean-spirited” and affirming that family can take many forms. This podcast appearance is part of a broader media strategy that targets groups who may not tune into traditional news outlets.

Harris will also appear on 60 Minutes this Monday, one of the more traditional media stops in her itinerary. She’ll participate in a town hall on Univision later this week, focusing on issues that resonate with Latino voters. The Vice President is focusing on targeted media outreach to appeal to various demographics, showing an effort to connect with those who might feel overlooked by mainstream political discourse.

Trump’s Engagements: Addressing Key Issues and Core Supporters
Meanwhile, Donald Trump returned to Butler, Pennsylvania—the site of an earlier assassination attempt—to host a massive rally with tech billionaire Elon Musk by his side. Before a crowd of 20,000 supporters, Musk, a prominent Trump backer, underscored his support for the former president and hinted at the power of their alliance by embracing the label “Dark MAGA.” Musk’s presence energized the crowd and showcased Trump’s appeal to younger voters and tech-savvy audiences. The rally highlighted Musk's ongoing support for Trump's campaign, both in person and financially through his super PAC.

Trump used the rally to address election security and voting issues, even voicing frustration over voter ID laws. Musk’s role as both a speaker and financial backer underscored his vested interest in Trump's potential return to the White House. 

Trump is also actively engaging with voters through a mix of public events and planned media appearances. Although he was initially scheduled for a 60 Minutes interview alongside Harris, Trump backed out, choosing instead to commemorate the anniversary of the October 7 attack on Israel at an event in Florida. This aligns with his focus on international relations and his staunch support for Israel, topics that resonate strongly with his base.

On Tuesday, Trump will appear at a town hall event in Florida with Robert F. Kennedy Jr., where they are expected to discuss public health topics, including vaccine policies. He’s also scheduled to speak at the Detroit Economic Club on Thursday, where he’ll focus on economic issues—an area he continues to emphasize as a cornerstone of his campaign.

Trump has also been making headlines for his lengthy, intense rally speeches. According to reports, Trump’s speeches now average over 80 minutes, significantly longer than in 2016. These speeches have grown increasingly focused on past grievances, a notable shift as he seeks to re-energize his core supporters.

Walz and Vance on the Trail: The Running Mates in Action
Both candidates’ running mates have been hitting the campaign trail as well. Governor Tim Walz, Harris’s running mate, appeared on Fox News Sunday this week, tackling tough questions on immigration and abortion rights. Walz acknowledged past misstatements and focused on his commitment to issues like women’s health and gun control. Although he received some criticism for appearing uncertain, Walz has been praised for his ability to connect with voters through his straightforward style and down-to-earth demeanor.

Meanwhile, Senator JD Vance, Trump’s running mate, has been equally active, known for his combative style on the campaign trail. Vance frequently challenges the media and is known for pushing back hard on opponents, helping to solidify his reputation as a tough contender in debates and interviews.

Reflection
Scripture tells us, “Be completely humble and gentle; be patient, bearing with one another in love” (Ephesians 4:2). As we consider our choices and the direction we want for our nation, may we be guided by God’s call to love our neighbors and pursue unity. Let us pray for wisdom, understanding, and a spirit of peace as we make decisions that will shape our future.