DiscoverThe NPR Politics PodcastHarris' & Trump's Paths To The Presidency
Harris' & Trump's Paths To The Presidency

Harris' & Trump's Paths To The Presidency

Update: 2024-08-054
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The podcast begins with a lighthearted anecdote about a summer night in Kansas City, setting the stage for a discussion about the upcoming presidential election. The conversation then shifts to the impact of Kamala Harris becoming the Democratic presidential nominee, focusing on how the political map is changing, particularly in key swing states like Georgia, Nevada, and Pennsylvania. The hosts discuss the implications of the presidential race for congressional elections, highlighting the potential for a shift in control of both the House and Senate. They also delve into the ongoing effort to define Kamala Harris, both from the right and the left, and how her popularity could play a significant role in the election. Finally, the podcast examines the "honeymoon period" that Harris is currently experiencing and whether it is likely to end, discussing the potential for her to face more scrutiny and challenges as the campaign progresses.

Outlines

00:00:00
The Political Landscape Shifts with Kamala Harris at the Top of the Ticket

The podcast discusses the impact of Kamala Harris becoming the Democratic presidential nominee, focusing on how the political map is shifting, particularly in key swing states like Georgia, Nevada, and Pennsylvania.

00:00:57
Congressional Races and the Presidential Landscape

The podcast explores the implications of the presidential race for congressional elections. The hosts discuss the potential for a shift in control of both the House and Senate, highlighting the importance of these races in shaping the legislative agenda.

00:13:55
Defining Kamala Harris and the Honeymoon Period

The podcast delves into the ongoing effort to define Kamala Harris, both from the right and the left. The hosts discuss how voters' perceptions of the economy under Biden are not yet fully translating to Harris, and how her popularity could play a significant role in the election. They also examine the "honeymoon period" that Harris is currently experiencing and whether it is likely to end, discussing the potential for her to face more scrutiny and challenges as the campaign progresses.

Keywords

Kamala Harris


Kamala Harris is the current Vice President of the United States and the Democratic nominee for President in the upcoming election. She is the first woman and first Black and Asian American to be nominated for President by a major party.

Donald Trump


Donald Trump is the former President of the United States and the Republican nominee for President in the upcoming election. He is a controversial figure known for his populist rhetoric and divisive policies.

Swing States


Swing states are states that are considered to be competitive in presidential elections, as they could vote for either the Democratic or Republican candidate. These states are often the focus of intense campaigning and media attention.

Congressional Races


Congressional races are elections for seats in the United States House of Representatives and the United States Senate. These races are often closely tied to the presidential election, as voters' choices for president can influence their choices for Congress.

House of Representatives


The House of Representatives is the lower chamber of the United States Congress. It has 435 members, each representing a congressional district. The House has the power to originate all bills that raise revenue and to impeach federal officials.

Senate


The Senate is the upper chamber of the United States Congress. It has 100 members, two from each state. The Senate has the power to confirm presidential appointments, ratify treaties, and try impeachment cases.

Q&A

  • How has the political landscape shifted since Kamala Harris became the Democratic presidential nominee?

    The political landscape has shifted in favor of Harris, particularly in the Sunbelt states where Biden was struggling. Her campaign is seeing increased enthusiasm and volunteer turnout, and the Trump campaign is now focusing more on Pennsylvania and Georgia.

  • What are the implications of the presidential race for congressional elections?

    The presidential race could have a significant impact on congressional elections, potentially leading to a shift in control of both the House and Senate. The hosts discuss the importance of these races in shaping the legislative agenda and the potential for a "wave" election.

  • How is the race to define Kamala Harris playing out?

    Both the right and the left are trying to define Harris, with the right focusing on her perceived weaknesses and the left trying to highlight her strengths. The hosts discuss how voters' perceptions of the economy under Biden are not yet fully translating to Harris, and how her popularity could play a significant role in the election.

  • Is the "honeymoon period" for Kamala Harris likely to end?

    The hosts believe that the "honeymoon period" for Harris is likely to end as the campaign progresses. They discuss the potential for Harris to face more scrutiny and challenges, and how her performance in unscripted situations could shape voters' perceptions.

Show Notes

As election day nears, Vice President Harris and former President Trump will focus their campaigns in specific states in their efforts to win. We look at the latest NPR Election Map and explore their relative paths to victory.

This podcast: White House correspondent Asma Khalid, political correspondent Susan Davis, and senior political editor & correspondent Domenico Montanaro.

The podcast is produced by Casey Morell and Kelli Wessinger. Our intern is Bria Suggs. Our editor is Eric McDaniel. Our executive producer is Muthoni Muturi.

Listen to every episode of the NPR Politics Podcast sponsor-free, unlock access to bonus episodes with more from the NPR Politics team, and support public media when you sign up for The NPR Politics Podcast+ at plus.npr.org/politics.

Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices

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Harris' & Trump's Paths To The Presidency

Harris' & Trump's Paths To The Presidency