Local Democratic leaders show support for VP Harris at Grand Rapids event

GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. (WOOD) — On Thursday, a group of local state lawmakers held their first Harris for President event in Grand Rapids.

The event comes as Democrats are quickly rallying behind Vice President Kamala Harris, as it appears she will likely be the party’s presidential candidate this November.

Michigan Senate Majority Leader Winnie Brinks, state Reps. Kristian Grant, Rachel Hood and Carol Glanville, and advocates for reproductive freedom were among those who gathered at Harmony Brewing Company in support of Harris.

“Harris’ distinguished career in public service as district attorney, attorney general, United States senator and vice president make her the most qualified and the most prepared to serve as our next president,” said Grant, D-Grand Rapids.

The lawmakers highlighted Harris’ accomplishments in Washington, D.C., pointing to infrastructure improvements, the country’s COVID-19 recovery and her backing of abortion rights.

Brinks, D-Grand Rapids, said she believes Harris is better for working families.

“I know that she will build and strengthen our middle class because, as they say, we have the receipts. Kamala believes in what I believe in, and that’s a future where every person in America has an opportunity not to just get by but to get ahead,” Brinks said.

A new poll , released on Thursday and conducted by Emerson College Polling, The Hill and WOOD TV8, showed Harris trailing former President and Republican nominee Donald Trump by just 1 point in Michigan.

It also showed tight races in several other key swing states, with Trump slightly leading most of them.

“We feel like we are moving in the right direction, and it only gets better from here. The enthusiasm has been palpable, and it’s not just the dollars that are coming in, it’s the endorsements, the folks that are pledged to vote for her at the convention. It’s the volunteers that are signing up,” Brinks said.

“The polling today shows that President Trump is still ahead,” said Michigan House Minority Leader Matt Hall, R-Richland. “Donald Trump will make our manufacturing strong in Michigan again, he will secure our borders, he will make our cities safer and cleaner, and I think he’ll help solve this inflation problem that’s happened under the Biden administration.”

Brinks said she believes Harris will receive a bump in polling numbers after a potential running mate is decided.

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