Kamala Harris campaigns in Scranton, PA ahead of election

Kamala Harris campaigned in Scranton, Pennsylvania, on Friday, aiming to connect with voters similar to those who supported Paige Cognetti, the city's mayor. Cognetti, an outsider, won her election despite initial skepticism about her candidacy due to her non-Irish last name. Harris faces challenges in winning over white working-class voters, a demographic that significantly supported Joe Biden, who was born in Scranton. However, she is gaining traction among Black and Latino voters, as evidenced by her campaign's new Spanish-language ad targeting the state's Latino population. The local political landscape reflects a mix of support and skepticism towards Harris's campaign. While some believe her focus on economic issues, such as affordability, resonates with voters, others doubt her ability to replicate Biden's success in the region. The mayor emphasizes the importance of addressing everyday concerns over broader political issues, suggesting that Harris's economic plans could appeal to Scranton residents. Despite her outsider status, Harris's campaign strategy includes engaging with diverse communities and addressing their specific needs. The demographic shift in Scranton, with a growing number of Latino voters, presents an opportunity for her campaign to expand its base. The local Republican Party remains skeptical, indicating a divided political atmosphere as the election approaches. Overall, Harris's visit to Scranton highlights the complexities of campaigning in a swing state, where historical voting patterns and demographic changes play crucial roles in shaping electoral outcomes.