In a day marked by intense political competition and fiery rhetoric, Vice President Kamala Harris and Sen. JD Vance, Donald Trump’s running mate, each made their pitches to voters in the Midwest. On Wednesday, both leaders campaigned in Eau Claire, Wisconsin, before Harris continued to Detroit, Michigan, for a second rally. This head-to-head battle underscores the strategic importance of the Midwest in the upcoming election.

Harris, who was accompanied by her newly announced running mate, Minnesota Governor Tim Walz, emphasized their administration’s accomplishments and laid out their vision for the future. She criticized the Trump administration’s policies, highlighting their impacts on healthcare, infrastructure, and the economy. Walz, meanwhile, brought a local perspective, underscoring the importance of strong leadership and his commitment to service.

Sen. JD Vance, representing the Trump campaign, took a different tack. He focused his attacks on Walz’s military record, a move designed to question the credibility and leadership of Harris’s new running mate. Vance’s speech aimed to rally the conservative base by portraying the Trump-Vance ticket as the true defenders of American values and military strength.

The fundraising numbers revealed the high stakes of this election. The Harris-Walz campaign announced a stunning $36 million raised in the 24 hours following the running mate announcement, bringing their total to $310 million in July alone. This amount is double what the Trump campaign managed to raise, signaling a significant financial advantage.

The day’s events also set the stage for a potential debate showdown. In a morning interview, Trump hinted at an upcoming debate with Harris, though he suggested it might occur on a network other than Fox News. This has fueled speculation about the format and timing of such a debate, adding another layer of anticipation to an already heated race.

As both campaigns intensify their efforts, the Midwest remains a crucial battleground. Harris and Vance’s dueling events in Wisconsin and Michigan highlight the importance of this region in determining the outcome of the election. With substantial fundraising and strategic campaigning, both sides are gearing up for a fiercely contested election season.