At a rally in Erie, Pennsylvania, Republican presidential nominee Donald Trump intensified his personal attacks on Democratic rival Kamala Harris, calling her “mentally impaired” and suggesting she be “impeached and prosecuted.” Trump’s speech echoed similar themes from a previous event which he described as “dark.” He accused Harris of being responsible for an “invasion” at the US-Mexico border and questioned her mental capabilities. Trump’s use of offensive attacks has increased as the election approaches, despite some Republicans advising him to focus on the issues.
Trump’s calls for the prosecution of political enemies are seen as a departure from the norm of the US justice system being free from political interference. He has threatened legal action against Google and Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg, and has continually vowed to prosecute those involved in alleged wrongdoing in the election. However, Trump himself faces several legal issues, including a pending federal case for his alleged involvement in the January 6 insurrection and a state case in Georgia for his efforts to overturn the 2020 election results.
Acknowledging the possibility of losing the election, Trump continues to make personal attacks on Harris, referring to her as “stupid,” “weak,” and “lazy.” While some Republicans have urged him to focus on issues like the economy and immigration, Trump persists in his offensive rhetoric. Despite repeated calls to stick to the issues, Trump and his allies continue to attack Harris personally, rather than focusing on policy differences.
Former Maryland Governor Larry Hogan criticized Trump for questioning Harris’s racial identity and mental competence, calling it insulting. Harris, who has consistently identified as Black and South Asian throughout her political career, has responded to previous comments from Trump by saying it is the “same old show” and lacks a plan to address the needs of the American people. Some of Trump’s supporters acknowledge his offensive remarks but continue to support his policies on immigration and the economy.
At the rally in Erie, Trump promised to end the “invasion” at the border and begin deportations if he were to be elected. He claimed that migrants from dangerous countries were destroying small towns and causing anguish in communities throughout Wisconsin, Michigan, and Pennsylvania. Trump has defended his personal attacks on Harris by stating that he is “entitled” to them due to her actions against him and others. Despite criticism from some Republicans and others, Trump continues to use offensive language and personal attacks as part of his campaign strategy.
