The media has been actively promoting the branding message of the Harris-Walz campaign, focusing on the “folksy” nature of Tim Walz since his selection as Kamala Harris’s running mate. Various news outlets, including ABC, NPR, POLITICO, NBC, Bloomberg, and even the BBC, have highlighted Walz’s approachable demeanor, attempting to create a relatable image for him.
Following Joe Biden’s withdrawal from the presidential race, the media and Democratic leaders rallied around Kamala Harris, embracing a narrative of “joy” associated with her candidacy. This upbeat and positive message was a central theme at the Democratic National Convention, which was characterized by a sense of joy and enthusiasm.
Media Amplifies Harris-Walz Campaign’s ‘Folksy’ Branding Amid Criticism Over Emphasis on Joy
The Harris campaign has created a new social media account called Team Kamala, in addition to her existing Kamala Harris account. This new account aims to engage her supporters and promote the joyful narrative that has become a cornerstone of her campaign. Despite criticisms, the campaign continues to emphasize this joyful message as a key component of their strategy.
Critics have begun to push back against the campaign’s emphasis on joy, with some commentators suggesting that this focus might be superficial and inadequate for addressing substantive policy issues. Various social media users have voiced their skepticism, arguing that the emphasis on joy may be a distraction from more pressing matters and could limit the campaign’s effectiveness.
Additionally, the Harris campaign’s attempt to attract a diverse group of followers, including through playful language like “hotties,” has faced ridicule. Critics have questioned the sincerity and appropriateness of such tactics, reflecting a broader skepticism about the campaign’s focus on style over substance. This has led to debates about the effectiveness of the campaign’s strategy and the authenticity of its joyful message.
