Zoom Fundraisers for Harris Gain Traction Amid Controversy

This week, three fundraising groups—White Dudes for Harris, Women for Harris, and Cat and Dog Ladies Unite for Kamala Harris—held Zoom calls to support Vice President Kamala Harris. The latter group’s initiative was sparked by Ohio Senator J.D. Vance's controversial 2021 remarks about “childless cat ladies,” which have resurfaced and galvanized Harris's supporters. The fundraising efforts have proven successful, with Win With Black Women hosting a call that attracted 44,000 participants and raised over $1.5 million. In response to Vance's comments, which have drawn criticism from both sides of the political aisle, figures like Donald Trump Jr. have attempted to downplay their significance. Some Republicans, including Trump’s press secretary Karoline Leavitt, have defended Vance, claiming his words were taken out of context. The backlash echoes sentiments from the 2016 election when Hillary Clinton labeled a segment of Trump supporters as a “basket of deplorables,” highlighting the ongoing divisive rhetoric in American politics. Vance addressed the controversy during an appearance on The Megyn Kelly Show, asserting that parenthood profoundly alters one’s perspective. He emphasized that the media's portrayal of his comments was misleading. Meanwhile, Harris's campaign is leveraging social media memes and celebrity endorsements to connect with younger voters, a demographic that may be less engaged with President Biden’s older demographic. As the 2024 election approaches, the dynamics between candidates and their supporters continue to evolve, with fundraising efforts and public statements playing crucial roles in shaping voter perceptions.