American politics has always held the potential for joy, but it seemed elusive until Vice President Kamala Harris emerged as the Democratic nominee last month. For nearly a decade, the political landscape was dominated by fear and loathing, with positive campaigns appearing out of touch and naive.
This shift was largely due to Donald Trump’s distinctive worldview, which influenced the debate even during the Biden administration. Trump’s approach and the fear-based rhetoric of his supporters cast him as an existential threat, prompting Democrats to focus on preserving democracy.
Kamala Harris’s nomination sparks a shift towards joy in American politics after nearly a decade of fear-driven campaigns
Human nature leans towards negativity, which is why fear-based strategies, like warning of dangerous immigrants or dictatorial threats, have proven effective. However, maintaining constant vigilance is challenging, explaining Harris’s move away from Biden’s democracy-focused campaign theme.
After nearly a decade of fear-driven politics, the appetite for a new approach has surged. Joy appears to be making a comeback, revealing a deep-seated desire for a more uplifting political narrative.
Recognizing this latent hunger for positivity is one thing; demonstrating it is another. As Tim Walz recently noted, Harris embodies this joy. A leader’s attitude influences their followers, evident in the contrast between Democratic and Republican convention signage.
This doesn’t imply that Democrats are inherently virtuous or Republicans evil; joy itself is neutral. Historically, politicians like Ronald Reagan and Barack Obama used optimism and hope to inspire. If Harris succeeds, she will follow in their footsteps.
Harris and Walz’s emphasis on “joy” resonates deeply. As David Brooks noted, joy transcends self and is found in shared experiences and relationships. This contrasts sharply with Trump’s approach, underscoring why joy-driven politics could be more effective than fear. Success in this arena might inspire future leaders to prioritize hope and joy over fear and bitterness.
