Theories have been launched all over creation over why and how Vice President Kamala Harris’s campaign went from spectacular to one that took it on the chin on Election Day.
My theory, for what it’s worth? She became boring.
Here’s my point. As her campaign concluded, it began to dawn on me that I had heard it all before. Many times, in fact. She seemed to rely too heavily on applause lines and cliches.
To wit:
- There’s more that unites us than separates us.
- I know Donald Trump’s type.
- I have only had one client in my years in public service: you, the people.
- Donald Trump is an unserious man.
- I never have asked what party people belonged to. I only asked, “Are you OK?”
- When we fight, we win!
I am sure there were many more examples. To be candid, I don’t remember them because I nodded off frequently during Harris’s rallies later on in the campaign.
I admit to being caught up in the excitement of Harris’s campaign after President Biden bowed out during the summer. My enthusiasm for her never waned and I voted proudly for her and for her running mate, Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz.
But as I look back now just days after their loss, I am left only to wonder if Harris — and Walz, too — relied too heavily on the same ol’ applause lines that got our attention … but which had a limited lifespan on the trail that leads to the White House.
Make no mistake: Campaign-trail boredom is a deal breaker.
Remember when I told you that I was excited for Kamala to be the Democratic nominee because she be easily beatable.
You laughed at me and thought I was full of it.
Well, now that the dust has settled, here’s me saying “I told you so!”
It had nothing to do with being boring ; the electorate wanted lower inflation, secure borders, lower crime and men not competing in women’s sports.
The economy was number one on voter’s minds in most all the exit polls.
Harris/Walz depended too much on abortion . In the end that issue wasn’t as important as being able to feed families and feel safe.
Trump made huge inroads with minorities and men.
Democrats would be wise to resist the progressive wing of their party and come back to the middle.
They have abandoned the working class and are catering to the college educated mostly.
If they don’t change course quickly they’ll be in the wilderness for years.
Heck- even California is becoming more Republican.