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As early voting commenced in Detroit on Saturday, Vice President Kamala Harris rallied voters at a high school gym, emphasizing the significance of early voting in preventing Donald Trump’s return to power.
“Now who’s the capital of producing records?” Harris asked, referencing the city’s musical heritage. “So we are going to break some records here in Detroit today.”
Harris was joined by singer Lizzo for an energetic rally near an early voting site. Following the rally, the crowd marched to the voting site, where they cast their ballots.
“If you ask me if America is ready for its first woman President, all I have to say is it’s about damn time,” Lizzo declared, echoing one of her hit songs.
Early voting began in Detroit on Saturday and expands statewide next weekend. Historically, Democrats have garnered significant support in Michigan before Election Day, although it remains unclear whether this trend will hold this year. While Democrats feel they have a slight advantage, Republicans assert they are on new ground due to increased GOP participation in early voting. This follows Trump’s criticism of the practice in 2020.
Lizzo’s presence at the rally, a Detroit-born artist, underlined the campaign’s focus on local engagement. The rally’s setting, a high school gym with minimal sound systems, emphasized a community-driven approach rather than an arena-style event. Campaign aides highlight this deliberate strategy, aiming to attract local voters and encourage them to vote.
Both Harris and Trump have been actively campaigning in Michigan, a state with 15 electoral college votes considered crucial by both campaigns. On Friday evening, Trump faced challenges at a rally where he attempted to address his prior remarks about Detroit.
In addition to Lizzo, Harris was accompanied by six national union presidents and local politicians. While speeches took place, Harris’ campaign staff diligently collected voter and volunteer information.
“The race is tight. It’s going to be hard work. But we like hard work,” said Harris, who was immediately departing for Georgia to rally early voters. “We’re here because this is a working day.”
As will be every single day between now and Election Day.
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