Harris Cuts North Carolina Ads As Trump Gains Edge In Key Regions

The Kamala Harris campaign has reduced its advertising presence in North Carolina just one week before the election, cutting $2 million of a planned $2.7 million ad buy, according to reports from the Carolina Journal. The move raises speculation that the Harris campaign may be conceding ground in the state.

Polls show Harris and Trump neck and neck statewide, with both candidates tied at 47%. However, Trump leads in key regions across western North Carolina and along the coast. In the Raleigh-Durham area, Harris maintains a lead, which she aims to strengthen with a scheduled rally in Raleigh on Wednesday. Trump will also rally North Carolina supporters in Rocky Mount the same day, setting the stage for high-profile campaign events in the final stretch.

Republican voters in North Carolina are showing up at a higher rate than in 2020, marking a significant shift in early voting. Civitas Center’s Dr. Andy Jackson pointed out that Republican turnout is up by 9,000, while Democrats’ turnout has dropped by over 340,000 compared to the last presidential cycle. With over 3 million votes already cast, this trend could have a substantial impact on the election outcome in North Carolina.

Black and young Democratic voters have been less active this election, further impacting Harris’ support. Early voting among Black voters is down by 40,000 from 2020, with younger Democrats showing a 37,000 vote decrease. Dr. Michael Bitzer from Catawba College noted that these drops are concerning for Harris’ campaign, as both groups were critical for Democratic success in the previous election.

With both parties working to maximize turnout in the final week, North Carolina remains a critical battleground. Harris and Trump’s North Carolina rallies may provide a final push in a state that played a pivotal role in the last election.