Chris LaCivita: The Republican Operative Orchestrating Attacks on Kamala Harris’ Running Mate

Just months ago, Donald Trump seemed poised to make a triumphant return to the Oval Office. But now, the former president finds himself in a precarious position, with his poll lead evaporating against Vice President Kamala Harris. As Trump stews at Mar-a-Lago, his campaign has turned to a veteran Republican operative known for his ruthless attacks: Chris LaCivita.

For over two decades, LaCivita has been the go-to strategist for GOP candidates facing an uphill battle. His specialty lies in orchestrating cutting personal attacks against opponents, a skill he honed during the notorious 2004 Swift Boat Veterans for Truth campaign that helped derail John Kerry’s presidential bid.

Now, it appears LaCivita is bringing his signature tactics to bear on the 2024 election. Recent months have seen a barrage of right-wing attacks on Harris’ running mate, Gov. Tim Walls of Minnesota, targeting his military record. These attacks bear striking similarities to those employed by LaCivita against Kerry two decades ago.

The resurgence of LaCivita’s old playbook has raised concerns among some Republicans. In the past, LaCivita’s tactics have been described as “hyperactive,” “manic,” and “renegade,” even by those who hired him. His attacks have been so outlandish at times as to make his clients uncomfortable.

LaCivita’s current role as both a Trump campaign aide and de facto COO of the Republican National Committee gives him unprecedented control over party spending. This power raises the possibility that he could once again wield the kind of influence he had during the Swift Boat campaign, when he was able to secure tens of thousands of dollars from billionaire donor Harlan Crow.

As the election nears, it remains to be seen whether LaCivita’s tactics will be effective in tarnishing Harris’ running mate. But one thing is clear: the Republican Party is once again relying on a controversial operative with a history of scorched-earth attacks. It’s a strategy that may backfire, but it also has the potential to sow chaos and division in an already polarized political landscape.