Top Democrats at the Democratic National Convention claim that Americans do not focus on policy when casting their votes, suggesting that emotional appeals and personal characteristics may be more influential.
As the Democratic National Convention drew to a close, CNN anchor Manu Raju initiated a discussion centered on the party's approach to showcasing Vice President Kamala Harris. Some Democratic Party members, Raju noted, expressed concern about Harris potentially tripping up in interviews, giving ammunition to her opponents.
Surprising attendees, a montage of elected Democrats aired, expressing their belief that Americans "don't vote" based on policy prescriptions. The montage prompted fellow anchor Kasie Hunt to remark, "Maybe. If you go with the vibes, it's a vibes election." Anchor Erin Burnett concurred, stating, "That's right."
DNC Attendees: Americans Don't Vote Based on Policy
The following night on CNN, anchor Erin Burnett posed a question to radio host Charlamagne Tha God regarding Harris' strategy of avoiding detailed policy discussions with the press. Tha God responded that Harris' approach, which involved focusing on public appearances, had proven effective.
On Friday morning, CNN senior political analyst Ron Brownstein minimized the significance of Harris' DNC speech content, arguing that the "feeling of change" she embodied was more impactful. Anchor Sara Sidner echoed this view, suggesting that the speech's primary impact was emotional, not substantive.
DNC Attendees: Americans Don't Vote Based on Policy
Brownstein further emphasized, "If you're talking about a fresh start and turning the page, you almost didn‘t have to listen to anything she said. She radiated change in the way she presented herself last night." The style-over-substance nature of Harris' speech was encapsulated by CBS News anchor Tony Dokoupil's observation from the DNC floor.
Describing the atmosphere as akin to a "seven-year-old's birthday party," Dokoupil remarked, "There is joy and there's not a lot of thinking! It's a good time!"
DNC Attendees: Americans Don't Vote Based on Policy
The perspective expressed by DNC attendees and media pundits aligns with a growing trend among politicians, who increasingly prioritize emotional appeals and personal characteristics over policy substance in their campaigns. This approach suggests a shift in voters' perceptions and expectations, potentially leading to a political landscape where style and personality outweigh specific policy platforms.
As the 2024 presidential election approaches, it remains to be seen whether Harris' strategy of focusing on emotional resonance and avoiding detailed policy prescriptions will prove successful. However, the recent statements by Democrats and media commentators indicate that this approach may be gaining traction among those seeking to appeal to the electorate.
DNC Attendees: Americans Don't Vote Based on Policy
Only time will tell if voters will ultimately embrace this style-over-substance approach or demand a more concrete understanding of candidates' policy positions.
