Amidst a resurgence in popularity for the political satire show "Veep," critics have accused Vice President Kamala Harris of using a "fake" southern accent during a recent rally. The show's star, Julia Louis-Dreyfus, has expressed delight in the show's relevance, while its creators have rejected comparisons between Harris and the show's fictional character.
Vice President Kamala Harris has faced accusations of using a "fake" southern accent during a recent rally in Georgia, sparking a debate on her authenticity and the relevance of the political satire show "Veep."
Critics have pointed to Harris' seemingly sudden adoption of a southern drawl, a characteristic not typically associated with her previous public speaking. They have accused her of trying to appeal to voters in the region by imitating their speech patterns.
Veep" Resurgence Sparks Debate on Kamala Harris' Authenticity
"It's blatantly obvious that Harris is putting on an act," said conservative commentator Clay Travis. "She's trying to come across as someone she's not to win votes."
However, supporters of Harris have defended her use of language, claiming that it was simply a reflection of the diversity of the audience she was addressing. They have also argued that it is unfair to hold politicians to such strict standards of authenticity, especially in the context of campaigning.
Veep" Resurgence Sparks Debate on Kamala Harris' Authenticity
"Harris is not trying to fool anyone," said Democratic strategist Joe Trippi. "She is simply using language that is familiar to her audience. It's nothing more than a way of connecting with voters."
The debate over Harris' accent has coincided with a resurgence in popularity for the political satire show "Veep," which aired on HBO from 2012 to 2019. The show follows the misadventures of a comically inept fictional female vice president, Selina Meyer, played by Julia Louis-Dreyfus.
Veep" Resurgence Sparks Debate on Kamala Harris' Authenticity
Since Harris' entry into the political spotlight, comparisons between her and Meyer have gone viral, with detractors calling out the VP's so-called "word salads" as evidence of incompetence.
Louis-Dreyfus, however, has expressed delight in the show's relevance, saying that she is happy people are getting a kick out of it. She has also suggested that the show could help Harris' campaign, expressing hope that viewers will be encouraged to vote.
However, the show's creator, Armando Iannucci, has rejected comparisons between Meyer and Harris, stating that Meyer was not based on any specific individual. He has also expressed concern that the show could be used to diminish Harris' accomplishments.
"Veep" executive producer David Mandel has echoed Iannucci's sentiments, saying that he is happy that Harris is a fan of the show, but he hates it when people use clips of "Veep" to insult her.
"There are people really enjoying Selina’s moment of telling her staff that she’s running for president; there’s a joy there that’s fun and nice and celebratory," he said. "And then there are a--holes who are using it differently."
The Harris campaign has embraced the influx of pop culture memes celebrating her campaign on social media. Mandel said the HBO show is ready to help assist her campaign if asked.
