USA, Chicago: Vice President Kamala Harris’s presidential campaign has made significant strides, raising $200 million and attracting 170,000 new volunteers in just a week following President Joe Biden’s endorsement. This momentum is notable as it comes shortly after Biden announced he would not seek reelection, focusing instead on supporting Harris against former President Donald Trump in the upcoming November election. Harris’s campaign, bolstered by a majority of Democratic National Convention delegates, positions her as the likely Democratic nominee.
The campaign's financial and volunteer support highlights the grassroots enthusiasm for Harris, who has managed to galvanize new donors, with 66% of the $200 million raised coming from first-time contributors. This surge in support contrasts with Trump’s campaign, which reported raising $331 million in the second quarter, surpassing the $264 million raised by Biden and his Democratic allies. Despite this, Harris’s campaign remains optimistic, focusing on the energy and unity within the Democratic Party.
Ajay Bhutoria, deputy national finance chair of 'Harris for President, 2024,' emphasized Harris's symbolic significance to the Indian-American community, noting her Indian heritage as a source of inspiration and support. Bhutoria highlighted the community's historical engagement and influence, particularly in key battleground states, suggesting that Harris’s candidacy could be pivotal in the election. This enthusiasm is reflected in the record-breaking fundraising and the influx of volunteers, underscoring the campaign’s dynamic and widespread support.