With 40 days until the election, Harris and Trump chart different paths to victory.

Both sides are trying to minmize direct contact

The presidential contest between Donald Trump and Kamala Harris is unfolding in a way I have never witnessed before. Typically, campaigns compete in all battleground states, though the intensity may vary depending on the importance of each state. Of course, some states are considered must-win.

However, I have never seen both sides so actively strategizing to avoid a direct confrontation as much as they are now.

The Kamala Harris campaign is aiming to reach 270 electoral votes by focusing on Nevada, Michigan, Wisconsin, and Pennsylvania. Meanwhile, Donald Trump is targeting North Carolina, Georgia, and Arizona to reach 270. North Carolina and Pennsylvania appear to be the only two states that both campaigns are seriously trying to stop the other side from winning. Even then, it seems that the Trump campaign is content to keep PA competitive but not willing to fight tooth and nail to win it.

This strategy could work for both campaigns, but the issue is that it will bring both sides very close to 270, leaving just one or two states to push one of them over the finish line. It’s going to be a nerve-wracking experience for all of us. If you’re surprised…