Massachusetts, United States

The Donald Trump vs Kamala Harris presidential race is heating up. On Saturday, the two political rivals traded barbs from afar, calling each other names. While Harris called Donald Trump "just plain weird," Trump in exchange painted her as an "evil," and "unhinged" person.

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This war of words marked a tumultuous week in the 2024 presidential race.

'He said- she said'

Harris' comments, as per Reuters, came just a few days after she ascended to the top of the presidential nominee list after being backed by US President Joe Biden.

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During a private fundraiser headlined by singer-songwriter James Taylor, Harris criticised Trump and his running mate, Senator JD Vance's rhetoric was "just plain weird." 

Also read | Trump tells Christians they 'wouldn't have to vote again' if he wins 2024 presidential election - WATCH

Harris called herself an "underdog," and said, "We are the underdogs in this race, but this is a people-powered campaign."

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"Donald Trump has been resorting to some wild lies about my record. And some of what he and his running mate are saying, well, it's just plain weird," she said.

The phrase 'weird' as per the report represents a new Democratic strategy, with the Harris campaign portraying Trump as "old and quite weird."

At the fundraiser, Harris, 59, contrasted her prosecutorial background with Trump's criminal record, framing her campaign as forward-looking in contrast to what she termed 'felon' Trump's desire to return the country to a "dark past."

Hours later, Trump retaliated at a rally in St. Cloud, Minnesota, accusing Harris of wanting to "destroy the country" and attacking her stance on public safety and immigration. Trump, 78, described Harris as "even worse" than Biden, declaring that her presidency would end the American dream.

Also read | Kamala Harris faces uphill battle: Polls show potential Democratic prez pick struggles to win over male voters

"If a crazy liberal like Kamala Harris gets in, the American dream is dead," Trump said.

Trump's speech was filled with grievances and baseless claims about election fraud.

Harris' candidacy has revitalised the Democratic campaign, which had struggled with doubts about Biden's viability.

Since Biden's exit, Harris has raised over $100 million, including $1.4 million at Saturday's fundraiser attended by around 800 supporters. 

(With inputs from agencies)