Vice President Kamala Harris gave the main speech at the American Federation of Teachers’ 88th national convention in Houston, Texas. At the same time, she started an official TikTok account to show how important the app is for the 2024 presidential campaign and to connect with more voters through this popular platform.
In her inaugural TikTok video, Harris explained her decision to join the app, noting her recent appearance on the For You Page and deciding to engage with users directly. This move highlights her recognition of TikTok’s role in amplifying her campaign, especially following President Joe Biden’s announcement that he would not seek re-election, positioning her as the Democratic Party’s front-runner.
Kamala Harris
Harris’s swift embrace of TikTok contrasts with President Biden’s more cautious approach, despite his previous appearances on the platform’s @BidenHQ page, which has now transitioned to @KamalaHQ. This shift occurs amid ongoing concerns from U.S. lawmakers about TikTok’s Chinese ownership and potential national security implications.
Despite these concerns, TikTok’s widespread popularity, particularly among younger demographics, makes it a vital tool for political campaigns. The app’s restriction on political advertising has not deterred politicians from utilizing its vast reach to engage with voters, underscoring its growing influence in the political landscape.
Former President Donald Trump also recently joined TikTok, despite his previous critiques and concerns about the app. He acknowledged the platform’s significance and criticized a potential ban, arguing it would benefit Facebook, which he views unfavorably. This sentiment reflects the complex dynamics of social media’s role in modern political campaigns.
