Introduction:
Tuesday’s debate between Vice President Kamala Harris and former President Donald Trump provided another glimpse into the complex dynamics of the 2024 presidential race. For many of us, Harris represents the very definition of qualified. With a background as the Attorney General of California, a U.S. Senator, and now Vice President, she has more government experience than any president we've seen in the 21st century, all of whom have been men. So, why is the race still so close?
Mainstream Media Analysis:
I have watched and read quite a bit of analysis from mainstream media channels. In particular, MSNBC, CNN, and NPR. NPR's analysis of the debate highlighted some of the major takeaways, including Harris’ calm, factual approach versus Trump’s more theatrical delivery of wild conspiracy theories. And yet, despite Harris' credentials and her ability to hold her own on stage, the polls don't reflect a significant lead.
Her Qualifications vs. His Cognitive Decline:
It’s puzzling, honestly. The fact that a woman of her caliber isn't the clear frontrunner raises some serious questions. Is it because she's a woman? Or perhaps because she's a Black and South Asian woman in a country still grappling with issues of sexism and racism? Her background should be a point of confidence for voters—this is a woman who knows how to govern. So, why isn’t her track record being enough to pull her ahead of a former president who is often caught up in outlandish claims and a questionable grasp on facts?
One can’t help but notice that Trump seems to skirt accountability when it comes to his constant peddling of conspiracy theories and signs of cognitive decline. Why is he not called out more? Why is there such a hesitation, even among his detractors, to hold him to the same standard of scrutiny that Harris faces? We know that women in leadership often face higher expectations and are judged more harshly. But this feels like something more.
Could it be that the electorate still isn’t ready to embrace a woman in the highest office, despite her qualifications? Or is it simply the polarization of the country, with voters so entrenched in their party affiliations that experience and competency no longer matter as much as political identity?
It’s a frustrating situation, especially when you consider that Harris, by all standards of experience, intellect, and capability, should be the one leading this race. If she were a man with this resume, would we even be asking these questions? Or would the conversation be entirely different?
Final Thoughts:
As we approach November, I find myself wondering whether her gender and race are the invisible barriers that keep her from securing a more decisive lead. It’s something we’ve seen before—women leaders often have to work twice as hard to prove they belong in spaces traditionally dominated by men. Harris is proving herself over and over again, but is the country willing to see it?
Only time will tell whether the voters will acknowledge her extensive qualifications, experience, and confidence (Presidential demeanor) or continue to give a pass to her opponent.
