Kamala Harris, who joined the American presidential campaign at the last minute, had to quickly develop a speech to persuade voters. Fortunately, she was able to utilize a method she has practiced for a long time: telling the story of her family and using it to structure her arguments. By repeating this story throughout her meetings and interviews, she is able to emphasize her deep differences with Donald Trump, whom she continuously criticizes. In the second installment of a series dedicated to analyzing the language of the two candidates in the 2024 American presidential election, Le Monde, with the assistance of two linguists, delves into the story told by the American Vice President.
Kamala Harris’s ability to effectively communicate her message and connect with voters is highlighted by her use of personal anecdotes and family history. By utilizing this storytelling technique, Harris is able to humanize herself and make her arguments more relatable to the public. This personal touch also allows her to differentiate herself from Donald Trump, whose rhetoric she consistently condemns. The analysis conducted by Le Monde and the linguists sheds light on the power of storytelling in shaping political discourse and building connections with voters.
The use of family history as a storytelling device is a common strategy employed by politicians to establish a personal connection with voters. By sharing intimate details about her upbringing and background, Kamala Harris is able to present herself as a relatable figure and showcase the values that have shaped her worldview. This approach not only allows Harris to highlight her own unique perspective but also serves as a contrast to Donald Trump’s messaging, which she portrays as divisive and harmful.
In examining Kamala Harris’s rhetoric, it becomes clear that her storytelling serves a dual purpose of conveying her personal narrative and reinforcing her political message. Through the repetition of her family story in various public forums, Harris is able to craft a consistent and compelling narrative that resonates with voters. This strategic use of language and storytelling techniques highlights Harris’s skill as a communicator and her ability to connect with diverse audiences.
The linguistic analysis conducted by Le Monde and the linguists underscores the importance of storytelling in shaping political discourse and mobilizing support for candidates. By dissecting Kamala Harris’s use of personal anecdotes and family history in her speeches, the researchers provide valuable insights into how language can be leveraged to convey political messages effectively. This analysis sheds light on the ways in which Harris constructs her public image and positions herself in relation to her opponent, Donald Trump, through the power of storytelling.
As the 2024 American presidential election approaches, the role of language and rhetoric in shaping public opinion and influencing voter behavior will continue to be a critical aspect of the political landscape. Through the analysis of Kamala Harris’s storytelling techniques, it is evident that personal narratives can play a significant role in building connections with voters and conveying a candidate’s values and beliefs. By understanding the power of storytelling in political communication, candidates can effectively engage with the public and mobilize support for their campaigns.
