As any astute observer of modern politics is likely to recognize, the theater of political campaigning has turned into something reminiscent of reality TV—minus the editing. Take, for example, the latest antics of certain Democratic figures, who seem to believe they’re auditioning for roles as action heroes rather than vying for public office. Watching Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez’s recent video, one might be left wondering if she’s campaigning for Congress or gearing up for the next Rambo sequel. If only she could wield policy as confidently as she does dramatic flair. Her efforts at connecting with the electorate seem less like grassroots engagement and more like a middle school drama club rehearsal.
AOC isn’t alone in her struggle to find authenticity in a sea of hashtags and viral sound bites. Much like the “cool teacher” trying too hard, several left-leaning politicos are laboring under the delusion that spicing up their discourse with expletives will somehow endear them to the masses. This linguistic gymnastic act is supposed to mirror Donald Trump’s connection with his base. However, it’s worthy to note that Trump didn’t win solely because he was Twitter-savvy; it was his policies that resonated with people, coupled with his uncanny knack for taking the pulse of the public’s mood. Perhaps Democrats think tossing around some colorful language is their shortcut to perceived authenticity, but it often just feels like they’re trying too hard to seem relatable.
Meanwhile, one is left to ponder what sort of surreal, dreamscape Kamala Harris occupies in her mind’s eye. Whether she’s recalling imaginary interactions with tearful supporters or reminiscing about listening to music that didn’t exist during her college years, Harris often projects a version of reality akin to a dreamer creating their own narrative. Her attempts at public engagement sometimes resemble an improvisational skit from an alternate universe. The once formidable senator on the Judiciary Committee has seemingly transformed into a caricature of herself, leaving observers to wonder if she’s ever had a casual conversation that wasn’t pre-approved by a focus group.
In stark contrast, Donald Trump has managed to cultivate a persona that is unabashedly himself, regardless of public opinion, polls, or pundit critiques. His ventures, from the boardroom to the ballroom of political rallies, chain-mailing from McDonald’s drive-throughs, and even improvising new dances to well-known songs, speak to a figure who is comfortable in his skin. This unyielding authenticity, coupled with substantive policies, creates an enviable cocktail of relatability and leadership. Perhaps Democrats would do well to observe instead of merely reinvent the wheel with expletives and social media pandemonium.
Echoing in the background of these theatrics are personal campaigns such as those of Kamala Harris whose book tour is dragging on longer than her presidential bid. Maybe this marathon of narrative creation is her attempt to rewrite her narrative or perhaps it’s just another scene in the extended political pantomime. Either way, there’s a certain irony to a touring act without the assurance of its own hits—a pageant of carefully crafted images and messages fighting for traction in an ever-hostile media landscape. If only these efforts could translate as smoothly into policy prowess, they might find the authenticity they strive so earnestly to depict.
