Former President Donald Trump ramped up his criticism of Vice President Kamala Harris at a campaign rally in Erie, Pennsylvania on Sunday, September 29, 2024. Trump labeled Harris as “mentally impaired” and called for her impeachment and prosecution over her role in the U.S.-Mexico border situation. This marks a significant escalation in Trump’s aggressive rhetoric as he seeks a return to the presidency in the 2024 election.
Trump accused Harris of being responsible for what he termed a “border invasion,” alleging that her actions have resulted in hundreds of murders and predicted thousands more. He followed these claims with a post on Truth Social, saying, “Kamala’s illegal migrants. It’s the biggest crime story of our time. She should resign or be IMPEACHED!”
Trump’s severe comments were met with chants of “lock her up,” from his supporters, echoing his previous campaigns against political opponents. He also aired a campaign-style ad that mocked Harris’ distinct laugh and critiqued her management of immigration issues. Trump is clearly trying to rally his base against Harris and her policies.
Trump also launched personal attacks on Harris, saying, “Honestly, I believe she was born that way. There’s something wrong with Kamala, and I just don’t know what it is, but there is definitely something missing.” This provocative language has drawn some criticism from within his own party.
Vice President Harris has largely refrained from responding to Trump’s comments, dismissing similar remarks as routine. She has been vocal about immigration, questioning Trump’s inaction on key issues during his presidency. While in Arizona, Harris highlighted Trump’s lack of progress in fixing the immigration system or addressing the lack of immigration judges and border agents during his four-year term.
Trump’s allegations against Harris are not new. He has consistently criticized her immigration policies at previous rallies, attributing the perceived disorder at the southern border to her. However, critics argue that some of Trump’s cited immigration statistics, particularly those linking a crime surge to the current administration’s immigration policies, have been exaggerated or include data from his own term. A Department of Homeland Security spokesperson clarified that the data Trump referenced “goes back decades” and encompasses noncitizens who arrived under various administrations, not solely during Harris’ tenure.
Several prominent Republicans have begun distancing themselves from Trump’s rhetoric. Senator Lindsey Graham of South Carolina suggested a different strategy, arguing that it would be more effective to critique Harris’ policies’ impact on the country. Majority Whip Representative Tom Emmer, a Republican, echoed this sentiment, urging a focus on key issues.
Former Maryland Governor Larry Hogan, known for his moderate views, criticized Trump’s comments more directly. He called Trump’s remarks “outrageous and unacceptable” and “insulting, not only to the vice president but to people that do have mental disabilities.”
As Trump continues his 2024 campaign, his attacks on Harris seem set to remain a key talking point. However, it is yet to be determined whether his rhetoric will mobilize his supporters or alienate voters.
