Staff Reports
Republicans are wanting former President Donald Trump to stick to attacking Vice President Kamala Harris based on policy rather than on personal character. Meanwhile, the Democrats have apparently taken the opposite approach, simplifying their campaign strategy down to “call Trump names and hope for the best.” Harris has made it crystal clear that she prefers to challenge Trump on what really matters to her: his character. She’s hardly even bothered to talk about policies, opting instead to paint the Republican front-runner as unworthy of office.
In her campaign’s early days, Harris attempted a mix of both policy and personal digs, but her team quickly directed her away from specifics and toward the overall vibe. According to insiders, they believe elections are won based on feelings rather than facts or detailed proposals, leading to the absurdity of discussing *vibes* in a political campaign. As if voters went to the polls with mood rings and a psychic instead of facts and data.
The once firebrand progressive seems to be treading cautiously these days, pulling back on many bold stances that might scare off the average voter. Harris has recently thrown in the towel on high-profile issues like dismantling private health insurance and banning fracking. Additionally, her apparent endorsement of a border wall plan—despite vehemently declaring it a “medieval vanity project” before—has raised eyebrows. Clearly, the current political winds are blowing right, and she’s looking to switch up her sails.
While Trump sticks to his guns, often poking fun at Harris with his “Comrade Kamala” jabs and other personal attacks, the suggestion from some of his allies is that maybe he should focus on the actual policies being proposed by his opponent instead. Lindsey Graham mused that with a genuine debate about the issues, it could play right into Trump’s hands. But Trump seems to be enjoying this game, much to the chagrin of some advisers. Instead of clowning around with policy talk, he’s decided to embrace the chaos of his personal attack style, even joking about polling his rally audience on whether to take the low road or stick to serious discussions. Guess which option won?
Democrats attack Trump’s character as Republicans urge policy focus https://t.co/nleSg44AER
— Washington Examiner (@dcexaminer) August 30, 2024
Amid this chaos, Harris’s claims of unchanging values despite her rapidly shifting policy positions provide endless material for conservative jesting. Her embracing of mainstream issues may make her appear more palatable to moderates, but it sure feels disingenuous. Meanwhile, her one sincere policy proposal, revolving around price controls for groceries, was met with such skepticism it could have been from a late-night infomercial. Even fellow Democrats seem to be taking steps back, prompting speculation if anyone wants to be associated with her at this point.
The contrasting strategies between the two candidates raise questions about what voters will ultimately value more when November rolls around: a candidate who appeals to “vibes” or one who lays out a clear policy framework (even if that often involves humor and personality). Democrats might think disparaging Trump is a safe gambit, but one couldn’t help but wonder if those voters craving a solid vision for the country might be left disappointed by such tactics.
