Kamala Harris is set to receive a significant boost in her bid for the White House, as the Black Men Vote PAC announces a $4 million campaign to galvanize Black male voters in key swing states.
The initiative, detailed by Politico, aims to leverage social media, door-to-door canvassing, and radio advertising to highlight Harris’ achievements and secure crucial votes in Michigan, Wisconsin, and Pennsylvania.
Frank White, co-founder and board chair of Black Men Vote PAC, expressed his belief that Black men could be pivotal in determining the outcome of the 2024 election.
“Black men can be the difference between winning and losing,” White stated.
He also stated that Harris’ candidacy represents a valuable opportunity for the PAC. “Kamala is a better investment,” he noted.
The Associated Press reports that Black men have become a crucial voting bloc this election cycle. Historically leaning Democratic, they are now being actively courted by both major political parties.
Bishop Reginald Jackson, head of the 534 African Methodist Episcopal churches in Georgia, noted that Harris’ candidacy has revitalized interest among Black men who were previously skeptical.
“Since the change in the Democratic ticket, there has been a turnaround. I think they feel they have something that they can support,” Jackson said.
The New York Times highlights that influential figures like Illinois Attorney General Kwame Raoul are rallying support for Harris. Raoul addressed a Black men fundraising event, urging support for Harris as a demonstration of strength.
“Sometimes we think that standing behind a Black woman as a leader does not display strength. I’m here to tell you that it does the opposite,” Raoul asserted. He stressed, “I’m standing behind a Black woman to be president of the United States, and it doesn’t make me any less of a Black man.”
Harris has been proactive in engaging with Black men throughout her term as Vice President. In 2023, she hosted a meeting at the White House with 60 Black men, facilitated by the NAACP. Harris has also addressed concerns directly, stating in an interview with The Nation that no demographic should be taken for granted.
“You’ve got to make your case,” she asserted, highlighting her commitment to earning every vote.
Jason Nichols, senior lecturer in the African American Studies Department at the University of Maryland College Park, believes Black men are increasingly aware of the impact of their votes this election.
“You see the community coming together to vote their best interest — which, in this case, is a Black woman,” Nichols remarked. “I think this time Black men understand the assignment.”
