After the stunning and humiliating defeat of 2016, Hillary Clinton stressed that being a woman had penalized her.
Since then, I have often argued that the Democratic candidate paid the price above all for being a Clinton. Hillary and Bill may have been adored by a majority of Democrats, but they were also polarizing figures.
Not only had Hillary underestimated the discontent of many Americans, think of the defeats in Wisconsin, Michigan and Pennsylvania, but she then acknowledged that she was a better manager than a candidate.
I believe Kamala Harris can succeed where Clinton failed.
Photo AFP
A real Kamala effect
Even though the Harris campaign is only three weeks old, there is no denying that there is already a “Kamala effect.” While it may not reach the level of irrational enthusiasm of Obama’s 2008 candidacy, the numbers don’t lie.
Consider also that, panicked by Joe Biden’s collapse, Democrats were quick to place all their hopes in the hands of a woman.
If being one was so penalizing, one can imagine that the debates within the political party would have been longer and more heartbreaking.
Unlike Clinton, Kamala Harris does not play the feminist card.
Every American already knows that she is the first female vice-president in history, and the first from a minority background. The historic nature of her candidacy does not need to be constantly reminded to the voter.
Better in front of a crowd than the former secretary of state, Harris shatters records for financial contributions.
Moreover, by adding Tim Walz, the Democrat has found a running mate who is much more formidable than the Clinton clan in 2016.
Weariness with Trumpism
If Hillary Clinton was the well-known and polarizing figure in 2016, that status has now been given to Donald Trump. He was the new guy and too many Democrats didn’t take him seriously.
The slogan chosen by the Harris campaign, “We’re not going back (we will not go back)”, clearly indicates that the Republican candidate is talking about the past, that we must look ahead.
Even though Donald Trump still enjoys the unwavering support of millions of his fellow citizens, it is safe to say that many voters, worried about Joe Biden’s age and fitness, have found in Harris an acceptable candidate who will allow them to push back the Republican a second time.
By persisting with his personal and disgraceful attacks, by choosing a running mate at least as radical as he is, by lying at a record rate and by delivering disjointed speeches in which he appears touchy, Donald Trump is playing into his opponent’s hands.
If the Republican candidate refuses to court new voters or to tone down the characteristics that so many people find unpleasant, he will open the doors of the White House wide to a first woman.
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