On October 11, Vice President Kamala Harris made a significant announcement at a campaign rally in Arizona, pledging to establish a bipartisan advisory council if elected president in the upcoming November election. This move, she explained, stems from a desire to uphold a “strong, two-party system” in the face of increasing political polarization. Harris emphasized that her leadership style embraces diverse perspectives and encourages the flow of ideas from all sides. “I love good ideas, wherever they come from,” she remarked, highlighting her commitment to fostering an environment where open debate is encouraged.
This is not the first time Harris has spoken about inclusivity in leadership. During an interview in August, she announced her intent to appoint a Republican to her Cabinet, further demonstrating her commitment to bipartisan governance. At the Arizona rally, she reiterated this stance, saying that she welcomes challenges to her own ideas because “the best ideas will survive those challenges.” Harris pointed out that she often brings people into her office who are unafraid to question her, as she values input that isn’t just aimed at pleasing her.
Harris’s comments came during a key campaign stop in Arizona, a state that has become a crucial battleground in the election. Recent polling from the Wall Street Journal shows a tight race, with Harris holding a narrow 2-point lead over former President Donald Trump. In Arizona, Harris has managed to draw support from 8 percent of Republican voters, while Trump maintains 88 percent of GOP support. Harris also enjoys a strong backing from Democrats, securing 96 percent of the party’s vote in the state. These numbers underscore the fierce competition for independent and swing voters, who are likely to be decisive in key battleground states like Arizona.
In her speech, Harris paid tribute to the late Senator John McCain, a revered figure in Arizona and a notable critic of Donald Trump. Harris praised McCain as “an incredible American hero” who embodied the values of patriotism, sacrifice, and principle. She recalled a memorable exchange with McCain during her early years in the Senate when, after a heated debate over a judicial nominee, McCain complimented her by saying, “Kid, come over here … you’re gonna make a great senator.” Harris also noted McCain’s pivotal role in casting the tie-breaking vote to preserve the Affordable Care Act in 2017, a move that solidified his legacy as a maverick who was willing to break ranks with his party when necessary.
The Arizona rally marked an important moment in Harris’s campaign, as the state remains a critical target in the race to the White House. McCain’s son, Jimmy McCain, endorsed Harris for president in September, further strengthening her connection to Arizona’s political legacy. With polls showing a close race, winning over independent voters and moderate Republicans has become essential for both Harris and Trump in the final weeks leading up to the election.
Donald Trump is expected to hold a rally in Prescott Valley’s Findlay Toyota Center on October 13, as he seeks to shore up support in Arizona and solidify his standing among Republicans. Trump, who has often clashed with the McCain family, faces the challenge of maintaining strong Republican voter support while also appealing to independents. With Harris making inroads into Trump’s traditional base, the competition for Arizona’s electoral votes is set to intensify.
As the election draws nearer, both candidates are focused on key battlegrounds like Arizona, where the fight for independent and swing voters could ultimately determine the outcome. Harris’s emphasis on bipartisanship and her praise for McCain may resonate with moderates, while Trump’s upcoming rally is likely to aim at consolidating his core base. The next few weeks will be critical as the race for the presidency reaches its final, decisive phase.
