News Mania Desk/Agnibeena Ghosh/18th August 2024
In the early stages of her presidential campaign, Kamala Harris has shown an impressive turnaround that has caught many by surprise. Just three weeks into her bid for the presidency, Harris and her campaign team engaged in an in-depth discussion with pollsters formerly associated with Joe Biden’s campaign. The goal was to assess her messaging and adjust strategies as needed.
During this call, veteran Democratic strategist Geoff Garin suggested significant changes to Harris’ messaging. Garin advised against her frequent use of the phrase “We’re not going back,” which he felt lacked forward-looking vision. He also recommended she tone down what he referred to as “weird” or overly negative rhetoric. Despite these suggestions, Harris and her team chose to maintain the energetic slogans and chants that had resonated with crowds at her rallies.
In private briefings, Harris reportedly decided to trust her own instincts over the pollsters’ recommendations. This decision reflects a broader shift in her campaign strategy. Known for her previous struggles and self-doubt, Harris has recently demonstrated a more confident and dynamic presence on the campaign trail. Observers who once doubted her capabilities are now taken aback by her newfound clarity and poise, a marked contrast to earlier perceptions of her as inconsistent or overly cautious.
Strategically, Harris has limited her public appearances and interviews to control her message and avoid missteps. A notable instance was her solo appearance at Andrews Air Force Base, where she was criticized for a muddled statement about diplomacy, which was seized upon by political opponents. Despite this, her campaign has maintained focus on key issues and avoided unnecessary public scrutiny.
Within the Democratic Party, there is concern that any misstep could be detrimental, potentially leading to broader implications for her campaign. However, Harris appears to be energized by the chance to campaign on her own terms, rather than being seen merely as a continuation of Biden’s administration. This newfound independence allows her to articulate a vision for the future without being constrained by her previous role as vice president.
Harris’ campaign has benefited from a revamped internal operation and a smaller, trusted advisory team. This contrasts sharply with the chaotic environment of her previous presidential run, which was marked by second-guessing and internal conflicts. The current campaign is characterized by a more streamlined and efficient approach, with Harris herself deeply involved in strategic decisions and messaging.
Her team has shifted away from traditional political strategies, opting instead for targeted outreach and carefully managed public appearances. The campaign has focused on issues such as abortion rights, climate change, and economic policies that resonate with younger voters and key Democratic constituencies. This approach has been complemented by an emphasis on more engaging and less formal interactions with voters.
Harris has also sought to address past criticisms and rebuild her public image by leveraging her personal strengths and policy expertise. Her campaign has intentionally spotlighted her ability to connect with voters and convey a message of positive change. Additionally, her campaign has embraced her distinctive traits, including her laughter, which has previously been criticized but is now being promoted as a symbol of her authenticity and optimism.
As the campaign progresses, Harris remains acutely aware of the high stakes involved. The success of her bid is closely tied to the broader fortunes of the Democratic Party, and she has expressed an understanding of the interconnected nature of her political destiny with the party’s success. Her current trajectory reflects a significant shift from earlier struggles to a more confident and strategically focused campaign, positioning her as a serious contender in the presidential race.
