How they made America grate again
Daily Record|November 07, 2024
No message, no policies... and no way to turn the tide
CHRISTOPHER BUCKTIN
How they made America grate again

DONALD Trump's dramatic victory in the US election capped a stunning political comeback, from convicted conman to the most powerful man in the world.

At the other end of the scale, Kamala Harris is left with nothing but regret for the missteps that ultimately led to her downfall.

Thrust into the race less than four months ago after Joe Biden's fragility became a Democratic disaster, her strategy appeared flawed.

Simply being a historic candidate as the first woman of colour at the top of a major party ticket was never going to be enough.

Harris failed to fully harness the energy her candidacy could have generated. Early enthusiasm around her nomination gave way to disappointment as it became clear that her campaign lacked a clear and cohesive message and, more importantly, substantive policies.

Rather than focusing on a strong, unifying vision for the country, Harris seemed to rely on identity politics to carry her through, which quickly alienated key voter groups.

The Democratic Party had hoped the vice president would rise and inspire women, particularly women of colour, to turn out in droves.

But her messaging often missed the mark. She campaigned heavily on issues such as abortion rights and democratic integrity undoubtedly important, but not immediate enough to override the economic concerns that had taken centre stage for so many Americans.

As inflation soared, gas prices spiked and wages stagnated under her boss Biden's administration, Harris's focus on cultural issues failed to resonate with voters struggling to make ends meet.

Her portrayal of Trump, who in May became the first former president to be convicted of a crime, as a dire threat to democracy also fell flat, particularly when the Republican narrowly escaped an assassination attempt.

This story is from the November 07, 2024 edition of Daily Record.

Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 9,000+ magazines and newspapers.

This story is from the November 07, 2024 edition of Daily Record.

Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 9,000+ magazines and newspapers.

MORE STORIES FROM DAILY RECORDView All
Daily Record

Ricki happy to drop for Accies spot

RICKI LAMIE is relishing the chance of action in the Championship as he looks to bounce back from six months on the sidelines.

time-read
1 min  |
January 28, 2025
Daily Record

Trial set for Yousaf in-law

THE brother-in-law of former first minister Humza Yousaf is to stand trial over drug charges.

time-read
1 min  |
January 28, 2025
Lewis and Kieran do the business for Saints
Daily Record

Lewis and Kieran do the business for Saints

STEPHEN ROBINSON insists St Mirren's academy \"business\" is booming after cashing in on Lewis Jamieson and Kieran Offord.

time-read
1 min  |
January 28, 2025
Daily Record

Trainers' telly boycott blasted

KIM BAILEY has hit out at a \"ridiculous\" planned boycott of broadcast interviews by other trainers unless they are paid.

time-read
1 min  |
January 28, 2025
Daily Record

Cocky Kilby eye historic trip to final

MICK KENNEDY insists his East Kilbride side will show no fear as they bid to become the first non-league side to reach the SPFL Trust Trophy Final.

time-read
1 min  |
January 28, 2025
Robbie's the Rock for debut DJ Scott
Daily Record

Robbie's the Rock for debut DJ Scott

Star calls first brekkie show

time-read
1 min  |
January 28, 2025
Liquid hydro could mean export boost
Daily Record

Liquid hydro could mean export boost

SCOTLAND could become one of Germany's biggest energy suppliers, it has been claimed.

time-read
1 min  |
January 28, 2025
WE CAN SHOCK FRENCH
Daily Record

WE CAN SHOCK FRENCH

ADAM JONES has backed Warren Gatland to turn Wales' fortunes around as they go to the Six Nations on the back of 12 straight Test defeats.

time-read
1 min  |
January 28, 2025
Minister lan off to look after baby
Daily Record

Minister lan off to look after baby

SCOTTISH Secretary Ian Murray has become a father for the second time.

time-read
1 min  |
January 28, 2025
You CAN get the Staff these days
Daily Record

You CAN get the Staff these days

Ollie backs McDowall to be Scots hero

time-read
2 mins  |
January 28, 2025