With the iconic “Vehicle City” sign behind her, Vice President Kamala Harris stood last week in Michigan’s heartland, an emblem of the American auto industry. Her speech skillfully tailored to the blue-collar workers of the Midwest, emphasized a clear message of commitment to the industries that built America, such as steel and auto manufacturing. She pointed out how six auto plants closed during Donald Trump’s presidency and criticized the Republican ticket for failing to support a Lansing GM facility.
But despite the well-crafted rhetoric, there was still an undercurrent of nervousness among the voters. Maureen Hayes, an auto supplier worker at the rally, reflected this sentiment, voicing concern about the lack of young male voters, but holding onto some hope that women would turn out in greater numbers. As the election nears, Harris’ challenge is more complex than her campaign realizes. If she wins, it will likely be because the Democratic Party made the bold decision to shift from an unpopular older candidate and voters rejected the political regression embodied by Donald Trump—especially his controversial stance on abortion rights.
The gender gap could be pivotal in determining the election outcome. Yet Harris must address lingering concerns among voters who feel uncertain about her approach. The stakes are high, and Harris’ message must signal that she intends to govern from the center, while also reassuring her base and appealing to moderates.
Her recent moves suggest awareness of this need. To project a more moderate image, Harris has aligned herself with former Rep. Liz Cheney in key battleground states like Wisconsin. In a recent “60 Minutes” interview, Harris sought to refine her narrative, emphasizing values like consensus, common ground, and compromise—qualities that she now understands are at the heart of what Americans are craving.
However, Harris’ appeal to centrist voters must go further. Her rhetoric should shift from merely promising moderation to actively showcasing her willingness to collaborate with Republicans. By naming specific Republicans—such as Sens. Susan Collins and Lisa Murkowski—whom she plans to work with in her administration, Harris can signal that she intends to rise above partisan extremism. Further, she should assert her readiness to negotiate with a Republican-controlled Senate on issues like tax reform, signaling a commitment to bipartisan governance.
One bold but effective move would be to visit symbolic sites linked to bipartisan cooperation. Harris could hold an event in Maine, at the Margaret Chase Smith Library, underscoring her willingness to work with Collins. Similarly, appearing in Murdo, South Dakota, or College Station, Texas, could send a powerful message about Harris’ commitment to finding common ground with Republicans.
While centrist voters may not know every detail about the GOP lawmakers she mentions, they will understand the symbolism. It’s not just about policy positions; it’s about signaling a willingness to cooperate with the other side. For many voters, this is the reassurance they need.
Another provocative strategy would be for Harris to preemptively announce Mitt Romney as her potential secretary of state. This would not only highlight her commitment to including Republicans in her administration but also address voters who are wary of extremism on both sides. It would also play to Romney’s sense of patriotism, particularly among moderate voters who feel alienated by Trump’s brand of divisive politics.
However, while Harris works to court centrist voters, she must also confront the extremes within her own party. A critical stance on Big Tech, particularly its role in the mental health crisis among children, could win her support across the political spectrum. Additionally, confronting Trump on issues like his stance on overtime pay would highlight his disconnection from working-class Americans, a point that Harris should hammer home.
The Vice President must also be prepared to take on some of the more sensitive issues within her coalition, particularly in the Middle East. In Michigan, Arab-American voters are deeply divided on the issue, with many feeling betrayed by the Biden administration’s handling of Israel’s military actions. Harris has an opportunity here to clarify her stance and distinguish herself from Biden’s policy if she feels it aligns with her values and will appeal to her Michigan base.
Despite the challenges, Harris can make a compelling case for unity and pragmatism. Some voters may be skeptical of her, unsure about her political views or uncomfortable with her race and gender. But by doubling down on her commitment to bipartisanship, moderating her message, and taking bold steps to reach across the aisle, Harris has the potential to secure the necessary support for a successful campaign.
In the end, Harris must avoid falling into the trap of pleasing every faction within her own party. As Sen. Gary Peters of Michigan wisely advised her, “Be who you are.” Only then can she connect with the voters who want a leader willing to bridge divides and deliver practical solutions.
