“Saturday Night Live” has spent decades lampooning politicians, bringing humor to an often divisive subject. According to creator Lorne Michaels, the show’s landmark 50th season will be no exception. As the November election approaches, Michaels views the upcoming weeks as an opportunity to invite some of the show’s beloved former cast members back to the iconic Studio 8H for special appearances.

“I want to celebrate this season with people coming back who have been a part of the show and who love it — not necessarily as hosts, but just making appearances,” Michaels shared in a recent interview. He added that the election season, with five or six episodes in the lead-up to November, presents the perfect chance for these guest spots.

One familiar face returning is Maya Rudolph, who will once again step into the role of Vice President Kamala Harris. Michaels also confirmed that Steve Martin will make an appearance during this milestone season, though not to portray Minnesota Governor Tim Walz, despite online calls for him to do so. Martin’s exact role remains a mystery, but fans can look forward to his comedic presence.

As for the portrayal of former President Donald Trump, Michaels did not confirm whether Alec Baldwin, who famously played Trump in recent seasons, would return to the role. However, cast member James Austin Johnson, who has also portrayed Trump, will be involved in some capacity. “Trump has morphed,” Michaels noted, referring to the evolution of Trump’s public persona. “We’re going to have to reinvent it again because, well, you saw the debate. You can’t come back with the same show.”

Michaels emphasized that part of the beauty of show business is the need to constantly refresh and reexamine familiar characters. This creative reinvention is key to keeping “SNL” relevant, especially when it comes to political figures who change over time. “We have the people to play the candidates, and it should be fun,” Michaels said, hinting at the exciting comedic takes viewers can expect as the election season unfolds.

Discussing “SNL’s” approach to political satire, Michaels explained that the show’s goal is not to preach to its audience but to provide an even-handed comedic take on both sides of the political spectrum. “You can’t lecture the audience, which is what most of politics is now — people lecturing the audience,” Michaels remarked. “Ours is like, ‘Yeah, there are kind of idiots on both sides.’ It has to be comedy. We’re first and foremost a comedy show.”

As the countdown to the election begins, “SNL” is gearing up for another round of political sketches that balance humor with insight. With a talented cast and returning favorites, the 50th season promises to be a celebration of the show’s long history of using comedy to reflect on current events.

“SNL” will kick off its highly anticipated 50th season on September 28 on NBC. The season opener will feature Jean Smart, star of “Hacks,” as the host, with musical guest Jelly Roll. With a lineup like this and the return of familiar faces, this season is set to be a memorable one. Fans can expect plenty of surprises, sharp satire, and, of course, laughter as “Saturday Night Live” continues its tradition of finding humor in the heart of American politics. As “SNL” embarks on this milestone season, it also serves as a reminder of the show’s resilience and adaptability in an ever-changing political landscape. The return of iconic cast members and the introduction of new voices reflect its commitment to staying relevant and entertaining. With each sketch, “SNL” aims not just to provoke laughter but to spark conversations about the issues that matter most, ensuring that its legacy endures for years to come.

During the first and potentially only presidential debate between Kamala Harris and Donald Trump, Harris adopted a provocative strategy, targeting Trump with sharp remarks throughout the nearly two-hour event. She criticized Trump heavily, suggesting that world leaders mocked him and military officials deemed him a “disgrace.” Harris also highlighted Trump’s 2020 election loss and his ongoing legal troubles, which she argued he was struggling to accept.

Trump frequently reacted with agitation, often veering off-topic and repeating false claims. He continued to assert unfounded allegations about election fraud, immigrants committing bizarre acts, and Democrats endorsing illegal abortion practices. His rhetoric painted a grim picture of America, reminiscent of his earlier presidency speeches about “American carnage.”

A notable moment in the debate was when Harris jabbed at Trump’s rally sizes, which visibly flustered him. Despite attempts by the debate moderator to steer the discussion towards immigration—a topic Trump usually favors—Trump fixated on his rallies and his grievances about the 2020 election, including repeating a debunked myth about Haitian migrants.

Trump also delved into various conspiracy theories during the debate, including one about migrants supposedly eating pets, despite denials from city officials and a lack of evidence. His assertions about crime rates and election integrity were met with corrections from the moderator, further fueling his erratic responses.

On the topic of abortion, Harris effectively countered Trump’s defense of his stance by sharing real-life implications of restrictive abortion policies, contrasting sharply with his inaccurate claims about abortion laws.

In terms of foreign policy, neither candidate provided concrete plans for resolving ongoing conflicts. Trump criticized Harris for her stance on the Israel-Gaza conflict and claimed he could quickly resolve the Russia-Ukraine war, while Harris accused Trump of being susceptible to manipulation by autocrats.

Overall, the debate showcased Harris’ strategic approach to challenging Trump and highlighted Trump’s tendency to divert discussions and promote conspiracy theories.

Donald Trump’s Arlington National Cemetery Visit Sparks New Controversy

This week, former President Donald Trump’s campaign faced fresh controversy during his visit to Arlington National Cemetery, aimed at highlighting the disarray of the US withdrawal from Afghanistan in 2021.

According to two Trump campaign officials, an individual physically obstructed Trump’s team from accompanying him during the Monday visit. A cemetery spokesperson confirmed to CNN that an incident occurred and a report was filed, but offered no further details.

Trump’s visit, which included a wreath-laying ceremony to honor the 13 US service members killed at Kabul airport’s Abbey Gate, was marked by a TikTok video posted by the Trump campaign, commemorating the three-year anniversary of the tragedy.

Trump’s Arlington Cemetery Visit Ignites New Controversy Over Photography and Conduct

In a Truth Social post, former President Donald Trump suggested that a recent incident during his Arlington National Cemetery visit was related to his campaign’s use of photography. Trump shared a statement from the families of fallen soldiers who expressed their approval of having an official videographer and photographer present to capture the event respectfully.

However, Arlington National Cemetery clarified that federal law prohibits political campaign or election-related activities within its grounds. The cemetery confirmed that it had communicated these restrictions to all participants, including photographers and content creators supporting partisan political candidates.

The controversy emerged following an NPR report detailing a “verbal and physical altercation” at the event. Sources indicated that a cemetery official attempted to stop Trump’s team from photographing and filming near the burial sites of recent US casualties. According to NPR, Trump campaign staff allegedly “verbally abused and pushed the official aside.”

Trump spokesperson Steven Cheung denied claims of physical altercation but confirmed that an individual attempted to “physically block” Trump’s team. Cheung hinted that video evidence might support this claim.

Trump campaign manager Chris LaCivita defended the visit, stating that Trump attended the event at the invitation of the Abbey Gate Gold Star Families to honor their loved ones. LaCivita condemned the actions of the individual who allegedly obstructed Trump’s team, calling it a disgrace and an affront to Arlington’s sacred grounds.

Sen. JD Vance, Trump’s running mate, downplayed the incident as a “little disagreement” and reiterated that the families had invited Trump to support them. Vance insisted that evidence supports the campaign’s claim of permission for photography.

In contrast, Virginia Democratic Rep. Gerry Connolly has called for Arlington Cemetery to publicly release the report on the incident, questioning Trump’s motives and condemning his team’s behavior as “abhorrent and shameful.”

This story has been updated to include further statements and developments related to the controversy surrounding Trump’s visit.

On Monday, Democrats, supported by Kamala Harris’ presidential campaign, filed a lawsuit to block new election rules in Georgia that they argue could create post-election disorder in the crucial battleground state. The lawsuit, lodged in Georgia state court by the Democratic National Committee, the Georgia Democratic Party, and several county election board members, challenges two recent rules enacted by the Georgia State Election Board. These rules allow for ‘reasonable inquiries’ before certifying election results and authorize county election board members to investigate ballot counts. This legal action escalates a growing controversy involving three Republican state election board members, who have received praise from former President Donald Trump for their actions.

In the 2020 election, Donald Trump lost Georgia by just over 10,000 votes, a result that became the focal point of his unsuccessful efforts to overturn the election through claims of voter fraud, despite no evidence supporting these claims.

Now, Democrats are seeking judicial clarification to ensure that election superintendents cannot delay or refuse to certify the results of the November 5, 2024 election. They want the court to rule that, unless a valid judicial order dictates otherwise, election superintendents must certify the results by 5:00 P.M. on November 12, 2024.

The lawsuit argues that Georgia law traditionally treats election certification as a non-discretionary duty. If election officials have concerns about irregularities, they can raise these issues during the certification process, but they cannot use them as a reason to delay or withhold certification. Certification is a crucial final step in confirming voting results, which must be verified with the secretary of state’s office.

Recent developments have heightened concerns over the state election board’s actions. The five-member board typically handles routine election duties, but recent partisan appointees have been accused of overstepping their authority. Three new Republican members, appointed this year, have come under scrutiny following mentions by former President Trump, who has criticized the board’s handling of election matters.

Democrats and voting rights advocates are calling for an investigation into the Republican board members, urging GOP Governor Brian Kemp to look into the matter. Last week, Democratic state Senator Nabilah Islam Parkes filed an ethics complaint, alleging that board members Janelle King, Rick Jeffares, and Dr. Janice Johnston violated state law by pushing through the new rules so close to the election.

“This is about protecting all voters,” said GOP board member Janelle King. “I am making sure I am doing the right thing. I am appreciative of the president’s support, but I am not working on behalf of anyone.”

The situation continues to evolve as both sides prepare for the upcoming election.

A New York appeals court is scheduled to hear oral arguments on Donald Trump’s appeal regarding the $454 million civil fraud judgment against him on September 26, which makes it unlikely that a decision will be reached before Election Day. Trump is contesting Judge Arthur Engoron’s ruling, which found him liable for fraud and imposed a $354 million penalty plus interest, bringing the total to over $100 million. In his appeal, Trump claims the judgment is unconstitutional, argues that no actual harm occurred, and asserts that the case should be dismissed because the alleged misconduct occurred too long ago.

In April, Trump posted a $175 million bond after the appeals court reduced the amount, which temporarily paused any actions by New York Attorney General Letitia James’ office to seize properties or bank accounts.

Recently, the attorney general’s office filed a brief urging the appeals court to uphold Engoron’s verdict. They argue that there is “overwhelming evidence” proving Trump deliberately inflated the value of his properties on financial statements. The attorney general’s office criticizes Trump’s appeal for focusing on what they describe as “meritless legal arguments” instead of addressing the substantive evidence of fraud. They highlighted specific examples of deception, such as the inflated valuation of Trump’s Mar-A-Lago estate, which they argue exaggerated its value by hundreds of millions of dollars on financial statements.

The attorney general’s office defended the initial judgment, asserting that the $363.8 million figure was a reasonable estimate of the illicit profits resulting from the fraud. They countered Trump’s claims that the judgment improperly included loans beyond the statute of limitations and that profits from property sales were double-counted. According to the attorney general’s office, the judgment accurately reflected distinct categories of ill-gotten gains linked to the fraudulent statements.

Her speech at the Democratic National Convention on Thursday night will be her most challenging moment yet in a whirlwind month that has brought her to the brink of a historic presidency with the potential to transform American politics.

The vice president will present a vision for a new beginning, offering a way forward from the prolonged negativity of Donald Trump’s rhetoric, the public fatigue from a once-in-a-century pandemic, and the rising cost of living.

More broadly, she aims to restore a sense of lightness and optimism to American life, reclaiming the concept of “freedom” from conservative interpretations. Her agenda includes expanding reproductive rights, providing new economic relief for working and middle-class families, improving access to health care, and enhancing safety from mass shootings.

In this election, we face a fundamental question: What kind of country do we want to live in?” Harris asked at a crowded rally in Milwaukee on Tuesday night, as the convention unfolded in Chicago. “Do we choose a nation of chaos, fear, and hatred, or one defined by freedom, compassion, and the rule of law?”

With President Joe Biden’s reelection bid ending due to advanced age, Harris is being urged by her party to rise to a higher level in the political arena.

No modern presidential nominee from any major party has faced such a daunting challenge in such a brief period.

Kamala Harris stands as the final barrier to Trump’s return to power, after he navigated four criminal indictments, one conviction, and defeated his primary challengers in pursuit of a remarkable presidential comeback.

On Wednesday night, Minnesota Governor Tim Walz, Harris’ vice presidential pick, asserted that she could “turn the page on Donald Trump.” Speaking in his straightforward Midwestern manner, Walz’s message aims to resonate with White men in the heartland who might be growing weary of the MAGA agenda.

“Kamala Harris is tough, experienced, and ready,” Walz declared emphatically.

In a bid to sway independent and undecided voters, talk show icon Oprah Winfrey, alongside a lineup of entertainers and celebrities, reinforced the convention’s central message.

“Let us choose common sense over nonsense, because that’s the best of America,” Winfrey urged. “Let us embrace the promise of tomorrow over the bitterness of returning to yesterday. We will not go back. We will not be set back, pushed back, bullied back, or kicked back. We are moving forward.”

Harris’ Key Objectives for Thursday Night

Most presidential nominees spend years developing their political strategies and public speaking skills. Kamala Harris, however, has had to rapidly assemble her campaign.

— Harris needs to prove herself as a viable commander in chief. Despite her support for Biden’s national security policies, her stance on issues like China, Russia, the Ukraine conflict, and Iran remains unclear.

— To challenge Trump effectively, Harris must present herself as the change candidate that voters have been calling for. This is challenging given her association with an unpopular administration. In a bid to distinguish herself from Biden, Harris has adopted a populist approach, pledging to tackle price gouging by supermarkets. Expect her to emphasize this in her speech, aiming to connect with voters. Former President Bill Clinton captured this strategy in his convention speech, highlighting the need for candidates to address voters’ problems, opportunities, fears, and dreams.

— Harris’ mixed record as vice president has led to skepticism about her readiness for the presidency. While her strong start as the presidential candidate has mitigated some Democratic concerns, her ability to withstand future scrutiny remains uncertain. Trump aims to frame her as an extreme liberal outside the American mainstream. Her speech on Thursday will be crucial in countering attacks on her immigration record, character, and leadership capabilities. An even bigger test awaits with her debate against Trump on September 10.

— The early phase of Harris’ campaign has been marked by a resurgence in Democratic enthusiasm. Observers will be watching to see if she can translate this momentum into a successful campaign strategy capable of winning significant voter support.

— Harris needs to undermine Trump’s appeal to build her own majority. While she’s been less explicit than Biden in framing the election as a battle for the nation’s soul, she warns that a second Trump term could dramatically alter the country. “This is not 2016 or 2020. The stakes are higher because we know what he does when he’s in office,” Harris has stated.

Ultimately, Harris must make Americans comfortable with the idea of her presidency.

In a personal appeal, second gentleman Douglas Emhoff portrayed her as a compelling leader, sharing details of their relationship.

“She will lead with joy and toughness, with that laugh and look, with compassion and conviction. She believes we are strongest when we fight for our beliefs, not just against our fears,” Emhoff said. “Kamala Harris was the right person for me at a pivotal moment in my life, and at this moment in our nation’s history, she is the right president.”

Despite her four years as vice president, Harris remains relatively unknown to many Americans. A recent CBS News poll found that only 64% of Americans knew her positions, compared to 86% for Trump.

This moment offers Harris a critical chance to introduce herself to the nation. It also underscores the urgency for her to define her own narrative before Trump does.

She may not get a better opportunity.

A remarkable turn of events

Although Kamala Harris has shown unwavering loyalty to Biden, her vice presidency has not been marked by significant achievements—one reason why there was minimal pressure on Biden to step down at the start of this cycle.

Now, however, a nominee who has yet to win a presidential vote (her 2020 primary campaign ended well before the Iowa caucuses) is being asked to secure victory in a high-stakes election.

Typically, securing a party nomination requires preparation for the immense responsibilities of the presidency. For Harris, this is not entirely uncharted territory, as she was on the 2020 ticket as vice president and has been a heartbeat away from the top position since.

Harris’ reputation has been bolstered by her role as Biden navigated the pressures of his candidacy and eventually yielded to his party’s call for him to step aside. This crisis may have set the stage for her emergence as a key Democratic figure.

She is not alone in this endeavor. This week, former Democratic presidents, first ladies, and members of Harris’ inner circle and family have rallied behind her, marking a dramatic shift in a party reeling from Biden’s poor debate performance against Trump.

Biden’s emotional handover of his legacy and the party’s hopes to Harris, coupled with his retreat after his convention address on Monday night, leaves Harris as the sole figure who must now persuade voters that she is ready to be the 47th president.

A biography that could unite the Democratic coalition

Kamala Harris would be the first Black woman and Indian American President. Throughout the week, Democratic Party leaders have emphasized her diverse background, from her middle-class upbringing and early job flipping burgers at McDonald’s to her role as California’s attorney general, where she tackled violent crime. They argue that her rise from modest beginnings to the vice presidency reflects a life of service that qualifies her to lead the nation.

This rich and varied biography could be pivotal in reuniting the Democratic coalition of women, minority, and suburban voters, potentially paving her way to the Oval Office.

Upon arriving in Chicago, Democrats were energized by the enthusiasm surrounding Harris and Walz, who captivated large crowds at swing state rallies, leaving Trump struggling to gain momentum and facing the challenge of being the oldest candidate in the race at 78.

However, as the days progress, the reality of the still-tight election has begun to set in. Former Presidents Bill Clinton and Barack Obama have cautioned that the race is far from over and that the recent euphoria is merely the beginning of a long campaign.

Minnesota First Lady Gwen Walz has clarified that she and Governor Tim Walz did not use in vitro fertilization (IVF) to conceive their children, revealing that they utilized intrauterine insemination instead. The Governor has frequently discussed their fertility journey on the campaign trail, emphasizing the personal significance of IVF and reproductive care.

Governor Walz has highlighted their fertility struggles in various speeches, including a recent rally in Glendale, Arizona, where he underscored the personal connection his family has to the issue. He has also criticized Republican vice presidential nominee JD Vance for opposing a bill aimed at ensuring nationwide access to IVF, attributing his family’s ability to have children to this treatment in previous statements.

Minnesota First Lady Gwen Walz recently clarified that she and Governor Tim Walz used intrauterine insemination (IUI), not in vitro fertilization (IVF), to conceive their children. Gwen Walz described IUI as “an incredibly personal and difficult experience” and revealed they kept their fertility struggles private, even from close family. The only person who knew the details was their next-door neighbor, a nurse who administered the injections necessary for IUI.

Governor Walz has highlighted their fertility journey as a key issue on the campaign trail, particularly as he has joined the Democratic ticket with Vice President Kamala Harris. He has used their personal experience to advocate for broader access to fertility treatments, linking it to his criticism of Republican vice presidential nominee JD Vance. In recent speeches, including one in Glendale, Arizona, Walz has emphasized the personal nature of reproductive care, stating, “This one’s personal for me about IVF and reproductive care,” and reflecting on their years of fertility treatment.

In July, Walz criticized Vance for opposing a bill that would have ensured nationwide access to IVF, attributing their successful conception to this treatment. “Thank God for IVF, my wife and I have two beautiful children,” he remarked, underscoring the significance of reproductive care in their lives.

Gwen Walz’s clarification comes amid heightened debates over reproductive rights, including attempts to restrict IVF following the overturning of Roe v. Wade. Their story highlights the broader implications of these legal and political battles on personal experiences with fertility.

During a turbulent news conference on Thursday, former President Donald Trump revealed a crucial insight: ‘I’m very angry at her.’ 

Trump’s ire was directed at Vice President Kamala Harris, whose recent entry into the general election race has left him feeling disoriented and nostalgic for his previous campaign’s dynamics — the one where he was challenging President Joe Biden.

The former president’s disarray was evident in his self-pitying and volatile remarks delivered at his New Jersey golf club, raising concerns about the future of his bid to return to power.

Trump’s brash and unconventional style won him the Oval Office in 2016, captivating grassroots Republicans with his anti-establishment rhetoric. However, eight years later, his familiar act is wearing thin. The reality is more stark as he faces a new campaign against a younger, more dynamic opponent, rather than the aging Biden. Trump’s failure to concentrate on key issues like the economy is frustrating his strategists and missing opportunities to exploit Harris’ weaknesses. This allows the vice president to gain momentum and address Biden’s polling shortcomings.

Another Strange Public Appearance

Nearly every Trump event now seems like an attempt at damage control for a previous misstep. Thursday’s news conference was meant to rectify the mishaps from his North Carolina trip on Wednesday, where Trump dismissed his aides’ request for an ‘intellectual’ economic speech and instead resorted to personal attacks on his opponent.

Trump’s team made efforts to support him on Thursday by presenting grocery items like Cheerios, coffee, and ketchup, along with charts highlighting rising costs under Biden. However, Trump quickly derailed, falsely accusing Democrats of illegally replacing Biden with Harris, blending grievances about energy and rent costs in a jumbled tirade.

In an attempt to stay on message, Trump occasionally followed his prepared remarks with his finger, but his speech frequently diverged into erratic shifts. He claimed that current global conflicts and rising car insurance rates would never have occurred under his presidency, while a growing swarm of flies, drawn to breakfast sausages left in the heat, added to the surreal nature of the event. The setting of his private golf club seemed incongruous for an address meant to highlight everyday Americans’ struggles.

Trump reacted defensively to suggestions from prominent Republicans, including Nikki Haley, to shift his focus from personal attacks on Harris to more pressing voter issues. He expressed frustration over Harris and her running mate, Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz, mocking his approach and voiced his anger over perceived injustices against him.

Despite the controversies and erratic behavior, Trump retains a strong base of supporters and remains a formidable contender for a political comeback, potentially becoming only the second one-term president in history to return to office. While his unorthodox style appeals to many of his followers, it risks alienating moderate, suburban swing voters who played a crucial role in his 2020 defeat and will be essential in the upcoming election.

Renewed Concerns About Trump’s Suitability for Office

Trump’s erratic rhetoric during his recent news conference vividly highlighted the intense frustration he has been displaying in public since Biden exited the race, and Harris capitalized on it with energetic rallies and large crowds.

With Biden’s departure from the race following a debate that amplified concerns about his suitability for a second term, Trump’s own focus issues are now raising doubts about his readiness to return to office.

Alyssa Farah Griffin, former Trump White House communications director, observed on CNN’s ‘AC360,’ ‘Donald Trump is not the Donald Trump of 2016. He seems slower, meandering, and low-energy, struggling to make coherent points. Against Biden, his contrast may have made him appear more vibrant, but it’s not effective against Kamala Harris, who is younger and more energetic.’

CNN political commentator Scott Jennings, who worked in the George W. Bush White House, praised Trump’s focus on high food prices but noted that Trump veered ‘way off course’ during his news conference. Jennings emphasized that Trump needs to stay focused and decide how he wants to approach the remainder of his campaign.

Despite advice, Trump showed no inclination to change, telling reporters, ‘Now you’ll say he ranted and raved … I’m a very calm person, believe it or not.’

In contrast to his claim, Trump’s Thursday appearance was marked by a series of off-topic rants—revisiting the Hillary Clinton email controversy, discussing peculiar topics like ‘bird cemeteries’ supposedly caused by wind farms, boasting about his relationship with China’s President Xi Jinping, and railing against prosecutors over charges related to the 2020 election and classified documents.

The Harris Launch

The Harris campaign is taking full advantage of Trump’s frequent outbursts. Following Trump’s New Jersey appearance, the vice president’s team responded with a cheeky ‘Statement on Trump’s … Whatever that was.’

The shift in focus to Harris was evident on Thursday when President Biden and Vice President Harris appeared together at a formal event for the first time since Biden effectively stepped back from his reelection campaign. Harris led enthusiastic cheers in suburban Maryland as they promoted a significant agreement with major pharmaceutical companies aimed at reducing drug costs for seniors. ‘It is my profound honor to serve alongside this extraordinary leader, President Joe Biden,’ Harris declared.

Biden appeared visibly touched by his reception and praised Harris as someone who would make ‘one hell of a president.’ The event highlighted Harris’ strategy to share in the Biden administration’s notable achievements while countering Trump’s attempts to link her to policies that have contributed to inflation and economic dissatisfaction among working Americans.

On Friday, Harris is set to deliver an economic address in North Carolina, responding to Trump’s recent remarks in the crucial swing state. Her speech is anticipated to include proposals aimed at combating what she sees as price gouging by major supermarkets and a plan to reduce housing costs, including $25,000 in down payment assistance for first-time homebuyers. The backdrop of these proposals is a populist effort to cast Harris as a dedicated advocate for working Americans against powerful corporate interests. As she highlighted in the context of a recent pharmaceutical deal, ‘My entire career, I have worked to hold bad actors accountable and lower the cost of prescription drugs.’

However, Harris’ plans are likely to stir controversy, with critics already accusing her of endorsing price controls that have failed in other contexts. This leaves room for Trump to mount a strong counterargument. Yet, the former president, who has always relied on his own instincts as his best advocate, now seems to struggle with coherence in his approach.

‘I have to do it my way,’ Trump declared on Thursday.

Trump Absent from Key Midwest Kickoff as Vance Takes on Harris and Walz

On a pivotal day for the 2024 election battleground, former President Donald Trump was notably absent. Instead, Republican vice presidential pick, Ohio Sen. JD Vance, led the charge against the newly announced Democratic ticket through the crucial swing states.

Vice President Kamala Harris and her new running mate, Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz, energized their base with high-octane rallies in Wisconsin and Michigan. Their appearances highlighted a rejuvenated Democratic Party, with Harris channeling Trump’s flair for dramatic entrances by arriving aboard Air Force Two for a packed Michigan rally.

Harris, now stepping confidently into her role as the Democratic nominee, drew large, enthusiastic crowds, signaling to Trump—who closely monitors such metrics—that her political honeymoon is in full swing.

Trump Team Launches Counter-Offensive

Trump Team Initiates Counter-Offensive Against Harris and Walz

As Kamala Harris gains traction with her new running mate, Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz, Trump’s team is making its move to counter their momentum. Struggling to adapt to the shift in the Democratic ticket after Joe Biden’s withdrawal, Trump has resorted to attacking Harris with baseless claims and juvenile nicknames like “Kamabla,” reflecting his struggle to mount a coherent response.

During a call-in to Fox News from his Florida club, Trump criticized the Harris-Walz ticket as radical and extreme, suggesting they aim to turn the U.S. communist. However, his arguments remained vague and lacked impact.

In contrast, JD Vance took a more targeted approach. At a smaller event in Eau Claire, Wisconsin, he directly addressed regional economic concerns such as high prices, housing, and energy costs, while framing the election as a choice between a return to Trump-era policies and the perceived failings of the current administration. Vance’s rhetoric subtly shifted focus from Biden to Harris, suggesting she holds the real power in the White House.

Harris, speaking in the same city, acknowledged the economic challenges despite a strong post-pandemic recovery. She committed to addressing issues like affordable housing, healthcare, and childcare, recognizing that while the economy is improving, everyday costs remain a significant concern for voters.

Vance and Trump’s Strategies to Undermine Harris

Trump Campaign and Vance Intensify Pressure on Harris

In a strategic move to unsettle Kamala Harris, the Trump campaign has ramped up calls for her to participate in a major media interview, aiming to exploit what they perceive as her vulnerability in unscripted settings. Ohio Sen. JD Vance criticized Harris for not fielding questions from the press since her nomination, calling it “disgraceful” and suggesting it undermines both her and the media’s credibility.

Harris, who has occasionally struggled in spontaneous interviews, faces mounting pressure from the Trump camp to prove herself beyond prepared speeches. With the Democratic National Convention approaching, her team has been focused on campaign-building and selecting a running mate, which they argue justifies her limited media engagement for now. However, as the campaign progresses and global challenges intensify, Harris will need to demonstrate her readiness for the presidency.

Vance’s efforts to confront Harris were on display during his Wisconsin visit, where he took a moment to approach Air Force Two, humorously remarking on his curiosity about the plane. This episode highlights Vance’s strategy of directly engaging with key political symbols to emphasize his challenge to the vice president’s emerging campaign.

Trump’s Change of Stance on Second Debate?

Trump Signals Flexibility on Second Debate Venue”

On Wednesday, former President Donald Trump hinted at a potential shift in his stance on the upcoming presidential debate. After initially refusing to participate in a debate scheduled by ABC and insisting that Vice President Kamala Harris appear on Fox News instead, Trump expressed a new willingness to engage in a debate on a different network.

In an interview on Fox News, Trump suggested, “We’ll be debating her, I guess, in the pretty near future. It’s going to be announced fairly soon, but we’ll be debating her.” He emphasized his eagerness to participate, stating, “I’d do it right now, because I want to debate her. I think it’s important for the country that we debate.”

Although Trump had previously pushed for the debate to be held on Fox News, he acknowledged that the final decision would involve mutual agreement, adding, “I think Fox would do a really good job, but two people have to agree.

Battling for Rural Voters

Harris Highlights Walz as Key to Winning Over Rural Voters

Vice President Kamala Harris appears to view Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz as a crucial asset in reaching voters beyond traditional Democratic strongholds. Enthusiastic about Walz’s role, Harris praised him in front of a vibrant crowd in Detroit on Wednesday night, asking, “Isn’t he amazing?”

Harris Campaign Sees Walz as Key to Rural Outreach Amidst Trump’s Counter-Attacks

The Harris campaign is strategically positioning Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz as a vital asset in securing rural voters in swing states. Dan Kanninen, the campaign’s battleground states director, highlighted the need to narrow margins in rural areas to win, noting Walz’s success in representing a traditionally Republican district in southern Minnesota. The campaign views Walz’s track record as a model for reducing Democratic losses in rural regions nationwide.

In response, the Trump campaign is working to undermine Walz’s appeal, portraying him as an extreme leftist on issues like crime, immigration, and social policies. Trump’s allies have criticized a new Minnesota law mandating menstrual products in all school bathrooms as evidence of Walz’s progressive leanings and have highlighted his perceived slow response to the Minneapolis unrest following George Floyd’s murder. However, Trump’s earlier praise for Walz’s handling of the 2020 unrest complicates these attacks, potentially weakening their effectiveness.

Dispute Over Military Service

Vance Intensifies Criticism of Walz’s Military Service Record

JD Vance has escalated his attacks on Tim Walz’s military service, accusing the Minnesota governor of avoiding deployment to Iraq. Vance claimed that while he answered the call to serve honorably when the Marine Corps requested his presence in Iraq, Walz opted to leave the Army National Guard in 2005, leaving his unit behind as he pursued a run for Congress. “When the United States asked me to go to Iraq, I did it. I’m very proud of that service. Tim Walz, on the other hand, chose to step away and let his unit go without him,” Vance said.

Walz’s Military Service Under Scrutiny Amidst Vance’s Accusations

Tim Walz filed paperwork to run for Congress on February 10, 2005. Shortly after, his Army National Guard unit was alerted to a potential deployment to Iraq within two years. Despite this, Walz’s campaign affirmed his commitment to his congressional bid. Walz, who had served 24 years in the Army National Guard, retired in May 2005. While service members typically submit retirement paperwork months in advance, the exact timing of Walz’s submission remains unclear. His unit received deployment orders for Iraq in July 2005, two months after his retirement.

JD Vance has intensified his criticism of Walz’s military record, accusing him of avoiding service in Iraq. Vance, who served four years in the Marine Corps and deployed to Iraq for about six months, challenged Walz’s claims of combat service. Vance also criticized Walz for allegedly misrepresenting his service, pointing to remarks Walz made about supporting an assault weapons ban. While Walz did deploy with the Minnesota National Guard to Vicenza, Italy, in August 2003, he did not serve in a combat zone during his deployment.

Biden’s Cautionary Note

The contentious debate between military veterans highlights the deepening political divide as the election looms with significant national stakes.

In a recent development, President Biden issued a stark warning regarding Trump’s potential threat to democratic norms. In his first interview since stepping back from the campaign trail, Biden expressed concerns about the possibility of an orderly transition of power should Trump lose in November. 

“I mean, if Trump loses, I’m not confident at all. He means what he says,” Biden told CBS News, reflecting his apprehensions about the stability of the democratic process under Trump’s influence.

CNN projects that Missouri Rep. Cori Bush will lose her Democratic primary to St. Louis County prosecutor Wesley Bell, continuing a trend seen six weeks ago with the defeat of New York Rep. Jamaal Bowman by pro-Israel groups.

Bush, a prominent member of the progressive “squad” alongside Bowman, faced a challenging primary in Missouri’s 1st Congressional District—the second most expensive primary of the cycle, following Bowman’s race. Her strong stance advocating for a ceasefire in Gaza contributed to her challenges.

Bell, who rose to prominence during the Ferguson protests following the 2014 police killing of Michael Brown, has now secured a victory despite Bush’s support from progressive organizations, local leaders, and key congressional Democrats. Bell, who first entered politics on the Ferguson City Council in 2015 and became St. Louis County prosecutor in 2018, is poised to be a strong contender in the general election for the solidly Democratic St. Louis-area seat.

Bell’s win marks the second time in three election cycles that an incumbent in the 1st District Democratic primary has been ousted, following Bush’s 2020 defeat of Rep. William Lacy Clay.

Wesley Bell’s decision not to charge the officer who shot Michael Brown disappointed some in the community, including Brown’s father, who voiced his frustration by supporting Cori Bush in a last-minute ad, stating, “I feel like (Bell) lied to us.”

During the primary campaign, Bush portrayed Bell as a candidate influenced by corporate donors, disconnected from the community he aims to represent in Congress. In a recent fundraising email, Bush argued that supporting her campaign meant standing up against a “grifter politician” and advocating for genuine representation for Missouri’s 1st District.

Bush’s defeat is a setback for House progressives, following a similar blow earlier this year when Jamaal Bowman, another progressive ally, lost to a more moderate opponent by over 15 points in his Democratic primary. Both Bush and Bowman faced criticism for their protest votes against President Joe Biden’s bipartisan infrastructure bill in 2021, which they felt lacked sufficient climate measures. (Only six Democrats opposed the bill, alongside most Republicans.)

The United Democracy Project, a super PAC associated with the American Israel Public Affairs Committee, spent around $9 million on ads targeting Bush and supporting Bell. One ad accused Bush of betraying both President Biden and the city of St. Louis.

Bush’s vulnerabilities included her vote against the infrastructure bill and her outspoken calls for a ceasefire in Gaza, which her opponents argued made her a target. They also criticized her focus on national issues at the expense of local concerns in her district.

Additionally, the Mainstream Democrats PAC ran ads against her, highlighting a federal investigation into alleged misuse of campaign funds for security services, though Bush denies any wrongdoing and asserts that she adhered to House rules.

Bell benefitted from significant local endorsements and substantial financial support from various sources, including the United Democracy Project, the Democratic Majority for Israel, the pro-crypto Fairshake PAC, and billionaire Reid Hoffman’s Mainstream Democrats.

Bush’s defeat marks the fourth instance this year of a House member losing a primary. Earlier, Rep. Jerry Carl lost an all-incumbent Republican primary in Alabama to Rep. Barry Moore due to redistricting, Jamaal Bowman lost his primary in June, and last week, Virginia Rep. Bob Good, a chair of the House Freedom Caucus, conceded his Republican primary after a recount confirmed his defeat.