Kamala Harris’s acceptance speech at the Democratic convention showcased her ability to connect deeply with the American public, a trait that distinguishes standout politicians. Harris, already a unique candidate as a biracial woman with a blended family, used her platform to emphasize that her story is fundamentally American, resonating with a broad audience.
Telling a Relatable American Story
Harris’s speech echoed the themes of past successful presidential nominees who leveraged their personal narratives to connect with voters. George H. W. Bush, Bill Clinton, and Barack Obama all shared stories of family, adversity, and the American dream in their acceptance speeches, which helped them to overcome perceptions of privilege or elitism.
In 1988, George H. W. Bush downplayed his privileged background by focusing on his life as a war veteran and a family man, living the American dream of hard work and community. Bill Clinton, in 1992, countered accusations of elitism by highlighting the lessons he learned from his working-class grandfather, dismissing the elite institutions he attended. Barack Obama, in 2008, connected his own family’s struggles with those of ordinary Americans, emphasizing shared values and experiences.
Harris’s Speech: A Focus on Middle-Class Roots
Harris mirrored this approach by recounting her upbringing in a working-class neighborhood, emphasizing her middle-class roots. She spoke of her mother’s journey from India and the modest apartment they lived in before affording a home. This narrative positioned Harris as someone who understands the challenges and aspirations of ordinary Americans, much like the presidents before her.
“We know a strong middle class has always been critical to America’s success,” she said. “And building that middle class will be a defining goal of my presidency. This is personal for me. The middle class is where I come from.”
A Focused Critique of Trump
In her speech, Harris also directed sharp criticism at Donald Trump, contrasting her values with what she described as Trump’s disregard for American norms and institutions. While she offered broad policy goals like an “opportunity economy” and a middle-class tax cut, her most pointed remarks were about Trump’s leadership, particularly his response to the reversal of Roe v. Wade and his treatment of the military.
By focusing on Trump’s actions and positioning herself as a defender of American values, Harris aimed to present herself as a tough, no-nonsense leader who is in touch with the concerns of everyday Americans.
A Speech with a Clear Purpose
Harris’s acceptance speech may not have delved deeply into policy specifics, but it succeeded in its primary goal: to connect with the electorate on a personal level and to position herself as a candidate who embodies the values and experiences of most Americans. This connection is what ultimately sets standout politicians apart and is crucial in building trust and securing voter support.
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