Slotkin’s Rally: A New Chapter for Democratic Unity
During President Biden’s recent campaign visit to Michigan, Representative Elissa Slotkin, the Democratic nominee for the state’s open Senate seat, notably did not appear. However, just weeks after that absence, Ms. Slotkin made a striking return to the political spotlight by openly endorsing her party’s presidential ticket at a lively rally in Detroit on Wednesday night.
Addressing a crowd of approximately 15,000 enthusiastic supporters gathered to back Vice President Kamala Harris and her newly chosen running mate, Governor Tim Walz of Minnesota, Ms. Slotkin concluded her passionate speech with a stinging remark aimed at the Republicans’ vice-presidential nominee, Senator JD Vance of Ohio. She declared:
“Let me just say one thing again about Midwestern values, and again you’re going to have to excuse me: No red-blooded Michigander is ever going to let a Buckeye get into the damned White House.”
Ms. Slotkin’s bold statement reflects a broader recognition among Democrats of the shifting political landscape following President Biden’s decision to withdraw from the re-election race. The newfound vigor and swift unification of the Democratic Party behind Ms. Harris and Mr. Walz have significantly altered the strategies of both Democrats and Republicans in the upcoming elections.
- Gone are the days when Democratic candidates for the House and Senate would find excuses to avoid appearing with their standard-bearer, often citing prior commitments.
- Republican hopes for a decline in Democratic voter turnout, stemming from a disheartened base, seem to be fading as well.
Recent polling data from The New York Times and Siena College reveals that while Ms. Harris holds narrow leads among likely voters in critical battleground states such as Pennsylvania, Michigan, and Wisconsin, the support for down-ballot Democratic candidates is significantly stronger.
| State | Harris’ Lead | Down-Ballot Democratic Support |
|---|---|---|
| Pennsylvania | Narrow Lead | Far Bigger Lead |
| Michigan | Narrow Lead | Far Bigger Lead |
| Wisconsin | Narrow Lead | Far Bigger Lead |
This evolving dynamic suggests a reinvigorated Democratic base, ready to rally behind their candidates as they head into the critical election season.
