Kamala Harris' Brat Summer Is Almost Over. What's Next?
Aug 15, 2024
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Hunter Harris, a writer and critic, and Leah Feiger, an influential commentator, dive into the exciting world of social media’s impact on political campaigns. They discuss how Kamala Harris has transformed her public image, becoming more relatable and engaging with younger voters. The conversation highlights the stark contrasts between online strategies of right and left-leaning influencers. They also explore the intriguing interplay between political branding and pop culture, plus a quirky look at celebrity conspiracies that spark discussion.
Kamala Harris's transition from being perceived as overly 'giggly' to embracing her humor has enhanced her relatability among voters.
The integration of social media trends and cultural movements in Harris's campaign highlights the evolving influence of digital platforms on politics.
Deep dives
The Evolution of Kamala Harris's Public Image
Kamala Harris's public perception has evolved significantly in the current election cycle, transitioning from a somewhat overshadowed figure to a more memeable and relatable politician. Initial criticisms labeled her as too ‘giggly’ or ‘laughy,’ which were interpreted through a lens of gendered bias, potentially undermining her credibility. However, as the campaign unfolds, Harris's humorous and authentic communication style is being embraced, as exemplified by social media trends that highlight her comedic moments. The shift indicates that what was once a perceived hindrance in her candidacy has now become one of her greatest assets as voters resonate with her relatable demeanor.
The Impact of Internet Culture on Campaign Strategies
The dynamics of online culture are substantially influencing modern political campaigns, particularly regarding how candidates engage with voters. For instance, the Harris campaign effectively utilized trending cultural moments, such as the 'brat summer' phenomenon, to resonate with younger voters and capitalize on social media platforms. This approach stands in stark contrast to the more traditional strategies employed during Biden's campaign, showcasing a shift towards a more agile and culturally aware political stance. The successful integration of internet vernacular and memes into political campaigning highlights the potential of digital platforms to shape political narratives and public perception.
The Role of Fandoms in Political Campaigning
Fandoms are playing a crucial role in shaping political campaigns, with grassroots movements emerging to support candidates like Kamala Harris. The endorsement from informal groups, such as Club Chalamet, illustrates how passionate communities are mobilizing their influence to advocate for political change. Additionally, the participation of well-known personalities from different media sectors signifies a shift in how traditional and digital fandoms interact with politics. The infusion of celebrity culture into political support not only energizes campaigns but also attracts diverse demographics, inviting younger voters to engage with political issues.
Anticipating Future Campaign Challenges
While Kamala Harris is currently experiencing a boost in popularity through her engaging online presence, questions remain about the sustainability of this momentum moving toward the election. Key challenges include addressing criticism regarding her past positions and appealing to a broader audience that includes moderates and older voters. As her campaign gears up for future discussions, integrating policy positions with her current relatable image will be essential to maintain enthusiasm. The concern lies in how effectively Harris can balance the playful nature of her campaign with the serious realities of political leadership as the election date approaches.
Team Trump was winning the internet until the Harris-Walz campaign took over. But Democrats can’t just keep calling Republicans “weird” and celebrating Brat Summer until election day. Today on the show, writer and critic Hunter Harris on how Kamala Harris is harnessing social media and what comes next in the run-up to November.
Leah Feiger is @LeahFeiger. Hunter Harris is @hunteryharris Write to us at politicslab@WIRED.com. Be sure to subscribe to the WIRED Politics Lab newsletter here.