Staff Reports
Vice President Kamala Harris is gearing up for a showdown with former President Donald Trump in the upcoming election, and she appears to be pulling out all the stops this time. Harris has crafted a tightly-knit inner circle composed of seasoned Democratic strategists, advisors, and a sprinkle of familiarity, all designed to propel her campaign into victory lane.
One of the key players in this star-studded ensemble is Lorraine Voles, newly anointed chief of staff. Voles has a solid pedigree, having navigated the murky waters of White House politics under Bill Clinton and a host of other Democratic notables. She stepped in during a chaotic staff upheaval back in 2022, and while she might not be a household name, she has the trust of her boss. Her ability to maintain order amid the storm showcases her tactical prowess, making her a potent asset for Harris as they march toward November.
'The seven people who make up Harris’s inner circle.' From @dcexaminer https://t.co/Jxf2Ld6jtG
— Byron York (@ByronYork) August 2, 2024
Senator Laphonza Butler, a relatively fresh face in the Senate, has also been tasked with supporting Harris. Appointed by Governor Gavin Newsom to fill the late Dianne Feinstein’s seat, Butler has cozy ties to the vice president dating back to her days as a prosecutor in San Francisco. Many observers note her strategic advantage due to her union connections and her ability to identify with some of the criticisms Harris may face. It’s almost as if a battle cry has been issued, with Butler poised to face the media’s scrutiny alongside Harris.
Then there’s Minyon Moore, playing a crucial role as the chairwoman of the Democratic National Convention Committee. With experience dating back to the days of Bill Clinton, she’s not just a party loyalist but a central figure in shaping the Democratic narrative, having also worked on Hillary Clinton’s presidential bids. Those who are well-versed in party politics understand that her influence could greatly enhance Harris’s standing among the ever-elusive swing voters.
Also in the mix is Leah Daughtry, a prominent religious figure and the DNCC rules chairwoman. Daughtry adds yet another layer of Democratic legacy to Harris’s campaign, wielding her influence from her extensive experience in managing party issues. It seems that Harris’s team is putting significant emphasis on her religious credentials, perhaps hoping to appeal to the more faith-oriented segments of the electorate.
Lastly, there’s the ever-present Doug Emhoff, the “second gentleman.” While his title is meant to be progressive and modern, one could argue it’s a cheeky nod to the burgeoning trend of identity politics that the Democrats fervently embrace. Emhoff’s role as Harris’s primary confidant and supporter could be seen as both a strength and a potential pitfall; their partnership aims to inspire voters while underlining Harris’s trailblazing path as the first female to climb the ladder as a presidential candidate.
With a roster this carefully curated, one can’t help but wonder if Harris is preparing for a formidable defense against a well-liked and highly polarizing Trump. Each player in her camp holds significant sway within the Democratic Party, and whether this star-studded lineup can turn the tide in her favor remains to be seen. As they say, politics makes for strange bedfellows, especially when aiming for the highest office in the land.
