For this upcoming presidential debate, both Senator Kamala Harris and President Donald Trump must strategically navigate their respective messages, bridge voter divides, and address crucial policy matters to sway undecided voters.
Harris, renowned for being a skilled prosecutor with a knack for delivering powerful and moving diatribes, should emphasize those skills in the debate. Harris must demonstrate her command of policy details, using concise and compelling language that appeals to swing voters. As voters reckon with a country facing a series of crises, Harris’s challenge will also be presenting a compelling, hopeful vision of America under a Biden-Harris administration.
Harris need to leverage her prosecutorial skills to scrutinize and challenge administration’s handling of raging COVID-19 pandemic, racial justice movements and economic turmoil without appearing overly aggressive. This represents a delicate balance to strike, as research suggests voters generally dislike candidates who appear overly combative or negative, especially women candidates responding to male counterparts. Furthermore, Harris should reassure centrist voters by affirming her support for pragmatic, incremental policies.
Turning to Trump, this debate showcases the President’s final opportunity to defend his leadership and deliver a game-changing moment. Trump should pivot from the defensive stance he maintained in the first debate. He must convincingly articulate how his policies helped ordinary Americans, sidelining distractions to devote substantial time to detail his future plans should he secure reelection.
Trump should strive to maintain a respectful and professional decorum throughout the debate, a stark contrast to the chaotic nature of his previous performances. This change can potentially improve his standing among undecided voters, who may view his conduct as a reflection of his capability in office.
Moreover, Trump should aim to refocus attention on his economic achievements and successes in facilitating job growth, carrying forward the tax cuts and deregulatory measures prior to the pandemic. By illustrating a clear plan to restore economic prosperity amidst the country’s COVID-19 recovery, Trump could convince voters of his competency and necessary experience to handle this crisis.
Additionally, mollifying his stance on elite cultural issues such as climate change could help disrupt the image portrayed by Harris and garner the support of some undecided voters. A more nuanced stance that prioritizes job preservation yet acknowledges the urgency of addressing climate change could boost his standing among the environmentally conscious but economically concerned voters.
In conclusion, the stakes are high for both candidates. Harris must not only defend but enhance the vision she and Biden have for America, connecting with undecided and swing state voters. Trump, on the other hand, must reclaim control of the narrative, demonstrating presidential poise while making a strong case for his policies before the electorate decides on November 3.
