US Vice-President Harris' campaign raises $500m in one month ahead of November polls

United States Vice President Kamala Harris’ campaign has raised approximately $500 million in just one month, according to Reuters.

This unprecedented fundraising surge occurred since Harris became the Democratic presidential candidate, highlighting strong support as the November 5 election approaches.

Campaign funds are crucial for advertising and get-out-the-vote activities, which are instrumental in mobilizing voters and persuading the undecided. The substantial financial backing reflects the urgency and excitement surrounding Harris’ candidacy.

Reuters, citing four sources familiar with Harris’ campaign activities, reported that the funds were amassed in the four weeks following her entry into the race on July 21. Harris stepped into the presidential race after President Joe Biden vacated the top spot on the Democratic ticket, prompting a wave of financing that had stagnated after Biden’s lackluster debate performance against Republican Donald Trump.

Harris’ campaign achieved a significant milestone by raising $200 million in the first week alone, quickly consolidating support to secure the party’s nomination. In July, her team raised an additional $310 million, bringing the total amount raised by her and Biden before his withdrawal to over $1 billion. This marks the fastest crossing of the billion-dollar fundraising threshold in history, according to the campaign.

In contrast, Trump’s campaign reported raising $138.7 million in July, with cash reserves of $327 million. Despite outraising Biden in the second quarter, Trump’s figures are overshadowed by the enthusiasm for Harris, whose campaign reported a cash-on-hand total of $377 million in July. This momentum has continued into August, fueled by small-dollar donations and large turnouts at Harris’ rallies in key swing states.

During the Democratic National Convention’s opening night in Chicago, Harris praised Biden, who in turn highlighted his achievements and urged voters to support Harris and her running mate, Minnesota Governor Tim Walz, in the upcoming election. Former President Barack Obama, another significant fundraising figure, is set to address the convention on Tuesday night while Harris continues to rally voters in Wisconsin.

Biden’s campaign committee raised $1.04 billion during the 2020 election cycle, or $1.62 billion when combined with outside groups, according to OpenSecrets, an organization that tracks political fundraising. Harris’ impressive fundraising tally underscores the high stakes and intense voter interest as the election nears.