US Vice President Kamala Harris, recently identified as the likely Democratic presidential nominee, has quickly become a powerful figure of inspiration for the over 4.4 million Indian-Americans in the US. Ajay Bhutoria, who serves as the deputy national finance chair for the ‘Harris for President, 2024’ campaign, has observed that the grassroots enthusiasm for Harris is driving her early success.
At 59, Harris officially kicked off her presidential campaign last week after President Joe Biden announced his withdrawal from seeking a second term on July 20. While she has not yet been officially named the Democratic candidate, her campaign is already gaining significant traction.
Bhutoria highlighted the added excitement surrounding Harris’s candidacy due to her Indian roots. With a mother from Chennai, Harris is more than just a candidate; she is a symbol of hope and representation for the Indian-American community. Bhutoria noted that this community’s influence is expected to be a key factor in crucial battleground states.
The campaign’s early achievements are notable, with Harris’s team reporting a remarkable USD 200 million raised and 170,000 volunteers recruited within just a week. Bhutoria emphasized that despite the short time frame, Harris has managed to rally the Democratic Party and generate strong grassroots support.
The campaign’s success is also reflected in its record-setting fundraising and a surge in volunteer activity across key states. Bhutoria commented on the enthusiasm, stating that Team Harris is energized and prepared to face off against the Trump-Vance ticket.
As the election draws near, Harris is set to contend with former President Donald Trump on November 5. Bhutoria acknowledged that while the race is expected to be tight, the momentum and energy behind Harris are substantial. The upcoming election will likely hinge on a few pivotal states and a narrow voter margin.
To leverage this momentum, the Harris campaign is organizing a nationwide weekend of action to mark the 100-day countdown to the election. Bhutoria highlighted the campaign’s strategy, saying that it is mobilizing energy across the country as the election approaches.
Bhutoria also underscored Harris’s broader significance, describing her as a symbol of hope and a visionary leader for a critical moment in American history. Her campaign is focused on advancing democracy, safeguarding reproductive rights, and creating opportunities for all Americans.
As America faces a crucial choice between a future of progress and inclusion versus one of division and regression, Harris offers a compelling vision for the path forward, according to Bhutoria.
