Vice President Kamala Harris finds herself in a challenging position as she embarks on the task of constructing a presidential campaign in a relatively short timeframe. With only about two months before early voting commences, Harris must swiftly raise funds, devise a strategic plan, recruit staff, establish a digital presence, create advertisements, organize a convention, and attend to numerous other essential elements of a successful campaign.
Despite the time constraints, Harris holds certain advantages, having previously run for president in 2020 and currently serving as the Democratic vice presidential nominee. Additionally, she has garnered significant support, including an endorsement from President Joe Biden and access to the existing campaign infrastructure from Biden's team.
Financially, Harris is in a favorable position, with nearly $96 million in cash-on-hand as of July. Her campaign received a substantial boost following Biden's endorsement, raising $81 million within a day, marking the largest 24-hour fundraising haul of the year for any campaign.
Securing the backing of delegates is crucial for Harris, who already has more than the required number to secure the Democratic nomination. Notable endorsements from key Democratic figures and organizations, such as the AFL-CIO, further strengthen her position.
In addition to selecting a running mate, Harris must focus on crafting her campaign identity, engaging in extensive outreach efforts, and enhancing her online presence. Building a comprehensive campaign website, developing a robust social media strategy, and organizing campaign events are among the critical tasks ahead for Harris as she navigates the complexities of the presidential race.