Latter-day Saints for Harris-Walz Campaign Initiative

Harris’s campaign has established an advisory committee to formalize these outreach efforts, recognizing the significant population of nearly 450,000 Latter-day Saints in Arizona, who represent about 6% of the state’s electorate. Historically, this demographic has leaned Republican, with a substantial majority supporting Trump in the 2020 election. However, recent trends indicate a potential shift, particularly among younger members of the faith who prioritize moral considerations over strict party affiliation. The campaign emphasizes themes of constitutional fidelity and moral integrity, positioning Harris as a candidate who aligns more closely with the values espoused by the LDS community, especially in contrast to Trump’s controversial behavior and rhetoric.

Key Strategies and Messaging

• Faith-Based Appeal: Supporters of Harris, like Joel John, a former Republican state lawmaker, advocate for a faith-driven rationale for backing the Democratic ticket, citing the divinely inspired nature of the U.S. Constitution as a core tenet of their faith.

• Demographic Shifts: Analysts suggest that younger Latter-day Saints are increasingly diverse and may be more open to Democratic ideals, contrasting with older generations that have traditionally aligned with the GOP.

Opposition from Republican Figures

The Republican National Committee has responded to Harris’s outreach by reinforcing Trump’s commitment to traditional values and religious freedoms. Halee Dobbins, a spokesperson for the RNC, argues that Trump’s policies resonate more with religious communities than those of Democrats, framing the latter as having strayed from core values.

Broader Political Context

The Democratic Party’s efforts to engage Latter-day Saints are not new; previous candidates have also sought to connect with this group. The current political landscape in Arizona, characterized by narrow margins in recent elections, makes the outreach to Latter-day Saints particularly crucial for both parties. Trump’s campaign is simultaneously courting this demographic, indicating a competitive race in a state that has become increasingly pivotal in national elections.