Vice President Kamala Harris’s candidacy has revitalized the energy of other Democratic candidates, particularly highlighting the importance of the Latino vote in key districts, as recognized by Suzan DelBene, chair of the Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee (DCCC). DelBene emphasized that the Latino vote is crucial in districts across the country, some with significant Latino populations, making their support pivotal for securing a majority in the House of Representatives.
DelBene spoke about a program called “How’s the People?” which focuses on engaging with communities of color and effectively communicating information to them. This effort is part of a broader strategy to connect with diverse communities, which has been energized by Harris’s candidacy.
In a recent interview during the Democratic National Convention in Chicago, DelBene expressed confidence in winning the November 5th elections, even predicting that Representative Hakeem Jeffries of New York would certify the 2023 election, with the 119th Legislature set to begin on January 3, 2025.
DelBene highlighted the impact of Harris’s campaign, noting that it has significantly boosted fundraising efforts and volunteer participation across the country. She mentioned that just after Harris announced her candidacy, the DCCC had its largest online fundraising day of the cycle, raising nearly a million dollars. The enthusiasm from Harris’s campaign has led to increased support for Democratic candidates nationwide.
DelBene also discussed the Democrats’ strategy to regain control of the House, which is currently held by Republicans with a 220-212 majority. She mentioned that Democrats have 30 candidates running in key districts across the country, from New York to California, Iowa to Alabama, and are focusing on both winning new seats and retaining vacant ones.
Economic concerns are at the forefront of the Democratic legislative agenda, with a focus on reducing living costs, particularly housing affordability. This aligns with Harris’s presidential campaign platform, which includes a plan to build three million affordable homes. Additionally, DelBene highlighted the importance of tax policies that benefit the middle class, such as a tax credit of up to $6,000 per child.
The legislative agenda also aims to reduce prescription drug costs and protect Social Security and Medicare, further underscoring the Democrats’ commitment to addressing key economic issues facing American families.