The 'underdog' vs. a 'blowout': How Harris and Trump are positioning their campaigns

In the final stretch of the presidential race, Vice President Kamala Harris is attempting to position her campaign as an underdog despite having better polling and resources than her opponent, President Donald Trump. Harris has publicly expressed confidence in her campaign's success, stating, 'We are going to win,' even after a chaotic debate performance by President Biden. Trump's campaign, however, dismisses this narrative, asserting that Harris is not an underdog but the current vice president with significant advantages. Trump's team emphasizes their confidence in his momentum, with a spokesperson noting that they are not complacent and are actively engaging with voters through media interviews and rallies. Despite Trump's assertions of having unprecedented support, there is an acknowledgment within his campaign that the race is competitive and should not be taken for granted. The urgency of Harris's campaign is heightened by the need to introduce herself to voters quickly, as she has faced the challenge of selecting a vice presidential candidate and organizing a national convention shortly after stepping into the lead role. This compressed timeline adds pressure to her campaign, which is navigating a polarized political landscape. Concerns about key battleground states, particularly Pennsylvania, are significant for Democrats, as they may need to secure additional states to compensate for potential losses. Some analysts suggest that Harris could be viewed as a slight underdog, indicating the competitive nature of the race and the challenges both candidates face as they approach the election.