How Much is “Being Cool” Actually Worth in Politics?
Aug 29, 2024
auto_awesome
Naomi Fry, a staff writer for The New Yorker, joins Tyler Foggatt to dive into the influence of celebrity culture on Kamala Harris's political campaign. They discuss how endorsements from stars like Taylor Swift and Beyoncé can transform a candidate's public image. Fry likens the revitalization of Harris's candidacy to a dramatic scene from 'Pulp Fiction,' questioning the true value of being 'cool' in politics. The conversation explores historical examples of charisma's impact on voter behavior, as well as the blending of entertainment and political strategy.
Kamala Harris's rise underscores the significant influence of celebrity culture in energizing voter engagement and shaping political campaigns.
The current political landscape emphasizes the importance of candidate perception and 'coolness' over detailed policy proposals, raising questions about electoral success.
Deep dives
Cultural Impact of Kamala Harris
Kamala Harris has quickly become a cultural phenomenon, transitioning from an unpopular vice president to a celebrated Democratic nominee, often compared to the excitement surrounding Barack Obama. This shift is partly attributed to the disillusionment with former President Biden's administration and the urgent desire for change among voters. With her identity as a young woman of color, Harris offers a sense of hope and representation that resonates with many. The cultural embrace she has received signifies not just her political rise, but also how much influence celebrity culture has on electoral campaigns.
The Role of Celebrity in Politics
The discussion highlights the growing relationship between celebrity culture and political campaigns, especially how celebrities can enhance civic engagement and voter turnout. Although endorsements from stars like Taylor Swift and Beyoncé could energize young voters, research shows that their impact directly on voting behavior is less clear. Celebrities can boost engagement around issues, but the leap from endorsement to actual votes remains complicated. This presents a challenge for Harris, as reliance on star power may not guarantee electoral success despite significant cultural clout.
Vibe vs. Policy in Elections
The current political landscape illustrates a shift where the perception of candidates—primarily characterized by vibe rather than concrete policy—has become increasingly important. Harris's campaign currently seems to focus on creating a positive atmosphere rather than detailing specific policies, reflecting a broader trend where 'coolness' plays a critical role in elections. In contrast, Trump’s unique approach to maintaining his own perceived 'cool' status, despite challenges, demonstrates the significance of how candidates are viewed by the public. This leaves an ongoing question about how effective vibes will be in sustaining support leading up to November.
Celebrity Endorsements and Election Dynamics
The podcast explores how Trump's niche celebrity endorsements, like UFC CEO Dana White and online streamer Aiden Ross, contrast with Harris's mainstream celebrity support. These endorsements have a certain audience appeal, particularly among younger demographics, and underscore the evolving landscape of political endorsements. However, there is skepticism about whether Trump's celebrity connections can mobilize broader voter support or if they merely resonate within specific, often isolated communities. As the election season progresses, the effectiveness of these endorsements in swaying undecided voters remains a crucial and unresolved aspect of the campaign.
The New Yorker staff writer Naomi Fry joins Tyler Foggatt to unpack Kamala Harris’s cultural blitzkrieg and how a litany of A-list celebrities and online influencers have helped revitalize the Presidential race. “It’s like the scene in ‘Pulp Fiction’ or something, where Uma Thurman overdoses and then has the adrenaline shot into her heart,” Fry said. To what degree can a candidate turn “being cool” into a winning strategy?