“It Could Come Down to Wisconsin”: Harris’ Strength in Key Swing States Points to a Crucial Showdown

As election night unfolds, former Vice President Kamala Harris is demonstrating strength in two critical swing states, Pennsylvania and Michigan, setting the stage for a potential deciding battle in Wisconsin. Washington Post columnist E.J. Dionne highlighted Harris’ strong position in Pennsylvania, where she has taken an early lead in several important counties, as well as in Michigan, where her campaign continues to perform well.

“Harris is running very well in places she needs to win in Pennsylvania,” Dionne observed. He pointed to Philadelphia and Montgomery counties, where there remains a substantial number of uncounted ballots. These heavily populated areas have historically favored Democratic candidates, giving Harris a promising edge in a state crucial to securing the presidency.

In Michigan, Harris appears to be holding her own, but a large portion of votes is still being tallied, leaving some uncertainty about the final outcome. “She looks good in Michigan, though lots of votes are still to come in,” Dionne remarked, emphasizing that Michigan’s outcome could further solidify Harris’ path to victory.

If Harris can secure both Pennsylvania and Michigan, their combined 34 electoral college votes would give her a substantial boost. In this scenario, Dionne speculates that Wisconsin could become the ultimate battleground. “Assuming those end up with her, it could come down to Wisconsin,” Dionne wrote, alluding to the razor-thin margins in this pivotal state.

Wisconsin, home to Milwaukee—its largest city—has been a focal point of political attention, particularly after former President Donald Trump called Milwaukee a “horrible city” in June. The comment stirred controversy, especially given that Milwaukee hosted the Republican National Convention. Trump’s remarks reflect a contentious relationship with the state, where he lost by a narrow margin in the 2020 election.

President Joe Biden won Wisconsin with approximately 1,630,866 votes, edging out Trump’s 1,610,184 by around 20,000 votes. In Milwaukee specifically, Biden secured 317,527 votes compared to Trump’s 134,482, a significant difference of more than 183,000. As votes continue to roll in, Harris’ performance in Pennsylvania and Michigan could set the stage for a Wisconsin showdown. Both campaigns are aware of the stakes in Wisconsin, given its recent history of tight races and the potential for a narrow margin once again.

Dionne’s analysis underscores the strategic importance of Wisconsin in this election cycle. With Trump’s relationship to Milwaukee marred by his critical comments and Harris performing well in nearby states, Wisconsin could end up playing the pivotal role in determining the next president.

In a race this close, Harris’ ability to hold onto her leads in Pennsylvania and Michigan may prove decisive, but Wisconsin’s unpredictable electorate adds an element of suspense. As the nation watches closely, it is clear that every vote will count in the final tally.