Kamala Harris Supporters Make Case to Executive Directors

CHICAGO — In a series of private engagements during the Democratic National Convention, close aides to Vice President Kamala Harris actively engaged the chief executives, advocating for Harris’ candidacy over Donald Trump, people familiar with the discussions said.

At events, including exclusive gatherings for leaders in finance, technology and law, these associates emphasized the economic stability and growth a Harris administration could bring. They highlighted her focus on strengthening the middle class and providing a predictable environment for businesses, contrasting that with the uncertainty they associate with a Trump administration.

These discussions were held under conditions of anonymity to freely discuss strategic details.

One notable event took place in Chicago at a venue called the Bunker, orchestrated by Tech:NYC, a major tech conglomerate. Here, the conversation included strategies to solidify tech industry support for Harris, even from those who traditionally lean toward the Republican side. Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer was among the attendees.

Speculation also emerged during convention week about possible appointments within a Harris administration. Conversations at a gathering at the Peninsula Hotel in Chicago led by Sen. Kirsten Gillibrand and Harris ally Charlies Phillips hinted at possible roles, including a significant position for Phillips in the Treasury Department.

JPMorgan Chase CEO Jamie Dimon has also been rumored as a possible candidate for Treasury Secretary, although JP Morgan Chase has not responded to the speculation.

Harris’s campaign has received significant financial support: more than $200 million raised in July and nearly $220 million in funding in August, according to recent FEC data.

A key briefing involving about 60 CEOs and CFOs was hosted by Charles Myers, Harris’s chief fundraiser, at the University of Chicago Booth School of Business. The discussion, which featured Harris campaign adviser Gene Sperling and Rebecca Patterson, formerly of Bridgewater Associates, focused on the economic risks posed by Trump’s proposed policies, including tariff hikes and potential compromises to the independence of the Federal Reserve.

Parallel discussions led by Blackstone Vice Chairman Tom Nides mirrored these themes, with Commerce Secretary Gina Raimondo and former Secretary Penny Pritzker advocating a collaborative approach between Harris, businesses and workers.

As Harris’s campaign rolls out its economic strategy, which includes housing initiatives, food price controls and tax credit support for families, the financial implications have been scrutinized. The Committee for a Responsible Federal Budget projects a potential $1.7 trillion increase in the deficit over 10 years under its plan, prompting Harris to propose a corporate tax rate hike to fund these initiatives.

The importance of Democratic control of Congress to carry out these plans was the focus of a fundraiser by the Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee, which stressed the need for Democratic victories in the House to realize Harris’s policy goals.