Donald Trump and Kamala Harris campaigned in battleground states on Friday amid escalating disputes over Haitian immigrants, with Trump advocating significant deportations. Trump’s Nevada rally aimed to address economic concerns such as inflation.
Meanwhile, Harris travelled to Pennsylvania after a strong debate performance against Trump, intensifying competition in critical swing states. With only seven weeks until election day, polls indicate a tight race.
Following the consensus that Harris won the debate, Trump intensified his immigration rhetoric. He criticized Harris from his Los Angeles golf course, labelling her actions regarding border control as inadequate and blaming her for illegal immigration surges.
Read: Donald Trump Faces Potential Lawsuit from Taylor Swift
Trump also focused on Springfield, Ohio, claiming Haitian immigrants there compromised local lifestyles. He promised unprecedented deportations from Springfield, citing disruptions attributed to the immigrant community, including bizarre claims of pet consumption, which intensified local tensions.
Springfield’s schools closed for two days due to threats, with the FBI investigating aggressive calls to the Haitian community centre, as stated by centre head Viles Dorsainvil.
Controversially, Trump has also been seen with far-right figure Laura Loomer, known for her extreme views, raising eyebrows during significant public appearances.
Read: Trump Labels Harris a Marxist in Latest Campaign Strategy
As the election approaches, Trump has pivoted to campaign against Harris instead of Joe Biden, reflecting strategic shifts in response to changing dynamics in the Democratic candidacy.
Harris, aiming to represent a new leadership era, has largely sidestepped Trump’s attacks, focusing on promising a shift from the drama of Trump’s tenure. At a North Carolina rally, she emphasised moving forward despite acknowledging the challenging race ahead.