Politics
Kamala Harris steps up midterm campaign efforts amid mixed reactions from Democrats
Former Vice President Kamala Harris is increasing her campaign appearances and endorsements for the 2026 midterms, drawing enthusiasm from some candidates and resistance from others in competitive races.
The short version
- Former Vice President Kamala Harris is expanding her political engagement for the 2026 midterm elections through campaign travel and candidate endorsements.
- Several Democratic contenders in conservative and swing districts, including candidates in Iowa, Alaska, Wisconsin, and Kansas, have stated they prefer she keep her distance.
- Other candidates, such as Georgia Senator Jon Ossoff and Nevada gubernatorial hopeful Aaron Ford, have welcomed her involvement and planned joint events.
- The split highlights navigating national party figures in battleground territories as Democrats work to preserve and contest key seats.
Key facts
- Kamala Harris is scheduling a canvassing launch in Las Vegas with Nevada Attorney General Aaron Ford for his gubernatorial bid, alongside recent endorsements of candidates including New Hampshire Senate nominee Chris Pappas.[Politico]
- Candidates including Wisconsin House nominee Rebecca Cooke, Kansas Senate candidate Adam Hamilton, Iowa gubernatorial candidate Rob Sand, and Iowa Senate candidate Josh Turek have voiced preference that Harris avoid campaigning with them.[Politico]
- Alaska Senate nominee Mary Peltola's campaign stated she was not seeking endorsements from outside the state after Harris's operation sent a fundraising solicitation on Peltola's behalf.[Politico]
- A spokesperson for Georgia Senator Jon Ossoff stated that he is grateful for Harris's support and would welcome her to campaign in Georgia.[Politico]
- Harris spokesperson Eduardo Negrón stated she will focus fundraising and travel on races where she can make an impact while supporting candidates taking necessary steps to win tough contests.[Politico]
What remains uncertain
- The full extent of Harris's future travel schedule and involvement in key battleground Senate races remains unspecified, with campaigns in Michigan, Maine, and North Carolina declining to comment on desired levels of participation.[Politico]