Kamala Harris’s candidacy: Beyond feminism and toward victory

Oluwaseun Ajayi

As the 2024 presidential election approaches, Kamala Harris’s candidacy offers a unique opportunity to analyse the intersection of gender and politics, especially when compared to Hillary Clinton’s historic run in 2016. Both women have been trailblazers in their own right, but their paths to the nomination reveal significant differences shaped by presidential backing, the power of incumbency, their articulate spirits, and levels of public acceptance.

Kamala Harris enjoys robust support from President Joe Biden, who selected her as his running mate in 2020 and endorsed her candidacy after his withdrawal from the 2024 race. This strong endorsement from a sitting president provides her campaign with significant weight and credibility. In contrast, Hillary Clinton received substantial backing from then-President Barack Obama during her 2016 campaign. While Obama’s endorsement was influential, Clinton did not benefit from the same level of current governmental support that Harris now enjoys.

As the sitting Vice President, Harris benefits from the power of incumbency, which grants her high visibility and a platform to influence policy. This incumbency advantage positions her as a formidable candidate with direct experience in the executive branch.

In terms of public acceptance, Harris has garnered a diverse base of support, particularly among women, minorities, and younger voters. However, she also faces significant scrutiny and mixed perceptions among the broader electorate, which her campaign must address strategically. Clinton’s 2016 campaign faced polarised opinions, with strong support from many Democratic voters but substantial opposition from others, partly due to long-standing controversies and political baggage. Given these comparisons, it is essential for the Harris campaign to adopt a strategic approach focused on winning the election rather than emphasising gender equality.

While gender equality is an important issue, the primary focus should be on addressing a wide range of voter concerns such as the economy, healthcare, and national security. This strategy involves highlighting Harris’s qualifications, experience, and vision for the future, rather than solely her status as a female candidate. Additionally, the campaign should balance Harris’s empathetic and nurturing qualities with the strategic and competitive nature of the political landscape. Showcasing her as a strong, capable leader while maintaining her relatability can appeal to a broader electorate. Furthermore, the campaign must not underestimate the appeal and resilience of Donald Trump. Adopting a proactive approach to countering Trump’s narratives with clear, decisive messaging and robust policy proposals is crucial, especially with limited time left before the election.

Oluwaseun Ajayi, oluwaseunfelixajayi@gmail.com

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