Following President Joe Biden's announcement that he will not seek reelection, top advisers to former President Donald Trump have been strategically planning for this potential scenario since the June 27 presidential debate. Their preparations included researching potential Democratic contenders, conducting polls comparing Trump against possible replacements, and intensifying attacks on Vice President Kamala Harris, whom they view as the most likely successor.
As soon as Biden officially declared his decision and endorsed Vice President Harris, Trump's campaign managers wasted no time in releasing a scathing statement linking Harris to the current administration's policies. Additionally, an affiliated super PAC has already secured airtime in key swing states to shape Harris's image among undecided voters as someone who supported a supposedly declining Biden.
This swift and coordinated response underscores the meticulous planning and strategic foresight of Trump's team in anticipating Biden's potential exit from the race. The groundwork laid by the advisers prior to Biden's announcement is now being put into action, with a clear focus on undermining Harris's credibility and association with the current administration.
It remains to be seen how these efforts will impact the upcoming presidential race and the public's perception of Vice President Harris. However, the proactive approach taken by Trump's campaign signals a calculated effort to influence the narrative surrounding the Democratic Party's leadership transition and position Trump favorably in the political landscape.