In Erie, the election campaign is on a knife's edge.

The race for the White House promises to be hardly more exciting, especially in the hotly contested Pennsylvania. Amidst this political confrontation, Erie emerges as the pivotal point. The mood here, right on the shore of the blue Lake Erie, appears to be shifting in favor of the Democrats, notably benefiting Kamala Harris, who impresses voters with her economic strategies. Former staunch Trump supporters, like Brandon DiMarco, have switched to a democratic course. Residents observe that the political landscape is changing. Fewer Trump signs adorn the city’s front yards, while the presence of the Democrats is growing. Yet in an election campaign that offers disparities, Pennsylvania stands out as the greatest jewel in the fight for the White House. Both Harris and Trump are heavily investing in the state and frequent its venues more often than any other campaign arena. Past events in Erie, such as the visit by Trump’s candidate JD Vance and progressive Senator Bernie Sanders, reflect the high interest of both camps. The Republicans have improved their ground organization, led by supporter groups like Turning Point USA, while the Democrats are finding new energy and looking optimistically at their chances. The challenges, however, are significant. Harris not only has to strengthen her position in Democratic strongholds like Philadelphia but also reduce the Republican lead in more rural regions like Butler or Aliquippa. Here, enthusiasm for Trump remains unbroken despite particular incidents such as an attempted assassination. Opinions in Erie are divided, and the atmosphere hovers between hope and uncertainty. "It is extremely close,” says Bill Ohmer, a resident accountant. This uncertainty is also reflected in the words of Katelyn Peters, who says she is still undecided about whom she will vote for.