Kamala Harris, the Democratic Vice President, has a strategic approach to debates that involves blending punch lines with detailed information to create a broader narrative. She relies on nonverbal cues like shaking her head to signal disapproval while her opponent is speaking. Her go-to tactic is to say she’s glad to answer a question as she gathers her thoughts to defend a position. In the upcoming presidential debate against former President Donald Trump, Harris will face a challenging and unpredictable opponent who oscillates between policy critiques, personal attacks, and falsehoods.
Harris has shown to be skillful in debates, with the ability to balance narrative and detail effectively. She approaches debates like a jury trial, aiming to win based on merit while leaving viewers with key takeaways. By making deductive arguments and folding them into a broader narrative, Harris can effectively deliver her message. She has stood out in crowded primary debates by showcasing her knowledge, poise, and ability to explain things well, without getting caught up in trying to go viral.
In past debates, Harris has shown an aptitude for landing memorable punches, knowing when to strike to take control of the conversation. She has a background in trial experience, which has helped her in using effective communication tactics during debates. While debates have sometimes put Harris on the defensive, she has also managed to deflect attacks and turn the narrative back in her favor. Her challenge in the upcoming debate will be to defend not just Biden’s record but also her own role in that record and the policies she would pursue as president.
Harris excels in nonverbal communication, knowing when to stay silent and when to speak. She has used her nonverbal cues effectively in past debates to convey disapproval and then counter with a conversational tone. However, facing the new and massive stage of a debate against Trump presents a unique challenge for Harris. Trump, known for his aggressive and unpredictable style on the debate stage, will require Harris to maintain superhuman focus and discipline to counter his tactics effectively.
Ultimately, Harris will need to navigate Trump’s disruptive stage presence and focus on staying composed and on-message during the debate. Although she may not have the opportunity to produce viral moments as easily due to the candidates’ microphones being turned off when not speaking, Harris must avoid getting distracted by Trump’s antics and continue to present her vision and policy ideas effectively. Despite the challenges ahead, Harris has the experience and skills to hold her own in the upcoming debate against Trump.
