‘Pennsylvania is such a mess’: Inside Team Harris’ unusual levels of finger-pointing
SUMMARY
Democratic insiders in Pennsylvania are frustrated with Vice President Kamala Harris' campaign, particularly criticizing campaign manager Nikki Lu for lacking deep connections in Philadelphia, a critical area for Harris’ success. Concerns focus on poor outreach to key demographics, especially Black and Latino voters, as well as underutilization of high-profile surrogates like Philadelphia’s Mayor Cherelle Parker. Latino and Black leaders have privately pressed the campaign for stronger efforts, but feel left out or ignored. Some staff changes, like bringing on former Obama field director Paulette Aniskoff, have provided cautious optimism, but there remains anxiety over the state's pivotal role in the election. Despite Harris’ team claiming to have a robust ground game, local Democrats worry that campaign missteps could cost Harris Pennsylvania—and potentially the presidency.
