Kamala Harris targets Mormon voters in Arizona outreach efforts

Vice President Kamala Harris is intensifying her outreach to members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Arizona, a key demographic in the upcoming elections. With nearly 450,000 church members in the state, Harris's campaign has formed an advisory committee to engage both current and former members, aiming to sway their votes in a highly competitive political landscape. The outreach is particularly crucial given the narrow margins by which Democrats have won in recent elections, including Biden's victory by just under 10,500 votes in 2020. Harris's strategy focuses on countering Donald Trump's appeal among Latter-day Saints, who have historically leaned Republican. Prominent church members, like former Republican state lawmaker Joel John, are voicing their concerns about Trump's values, particularly in light of his actions surrounding the January 6 Capitol riots. The church does not endorse political candidates, but John emphasizes the importance of electing leaders who embody moral integrity, a quality he believes Trump lacks. The outreach efforts are not unprecedented; previous Democratic candidates have attempted to connect with Latter-day Saints, recognizing their potential influence in close races. Younger members of the faith, who are increasingly diverse and less tied to traditional party affiliations, may be more receptive to Harris's message. This demographic shift presents an opportunity for Harris to gain traction among voters who may prioritize values over party loyalty. As the election approaches, the effectiveness of these outreach efforts will be critical in determining whether Harris can secure a portion of the Latter-day Saints' votes, which could significantly impact the overall election results in Arizona.