By Craig J. DeLuz, Special to California Black Media Partners

As we enter the final 90 day stretch of what will likely be the most bizarre presidential election cycle in modern American history, the two leading candidates for president of the United States have staked out very interesting communications strategies.

Trump is being Trump. He remains true to his persona, with his supporters admiring his actions while his detractors only seeing flaws. On the other hand, Harris has deployed a cunning strategy of deceit and avoidance. And with the aid of her allies in the press, has been able to seamlessly shift her stance on key policy issues from immigration to healthcare without batting an eyelash.

The most striking aspect of this strategy is the campaign’s consistent mischaracterization of Donald Trump’s stances. Rather than engaging in a reputable and respectful exchange of ideas, the Harris camp has resorted to vilifying and maligning Trump, often resorting to gross exaggerations and blatant untruths. Despite Trump’s repeated assurances that he does not support cuts to social security benefits, Harris insists that he intends to slash these programs. She also fabricates claims that he seeks a nationwide abortion ban, disregarding his clear statements that he does not support such a ban and that the decision should be left to individual states. Additionally, Harris boasts about her tough stance on border security, despite over 10 million illegal crossings at the southern border during her tenure as “Border Czar” in the Biden-Harris administration

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Furthermore, Harris’ deliberate avoidance of media interviews and her reluctance to answer questions is an alarming and dubious tactic. Harris’ most recent sit-down interview was nearly two months ago on MSNBC’s “Morning Joe”, where she discussed the Roe v. Wade anniversary. Since then, the public witnessed Joe Biden’s cognitive decline on national television, an assassination attempt on Trump’s life, the Republican National Convention, Biden’s withdrawal from the presidential race, and Harris’ nomination as the Democratic candidate; all newsworthy events that were seemingly unworthy of commentary. In fact, the only question she has answered recently was when she would do an interview, to which she responded, “before the end of the month.” In an era where information is easily accessible and voters demand transparency from their leaders, avoiding the media is both counterproductive and undemocratic. By limiting her interactions with the media, Harris is cherry-picking her audience and attempting to control the narrative, instead of engaging in open and honest communication with all Americans.

However, the most concerning aspect of Harris’ communications strategy is her frequent reversals on crucial issues. She was in favor of banning fracking before she was against it. Her stance on single-payer healthcare has been fluid and uncertain. And just recently, she launched a multi-state ad campaign presenting herself as an immigration hardliner, committed to securing our southern border, despite previously claiming that it was already secure. On multiple occasions, Harris has changed her position, often depending on the political climate or her audience.

Kamala Harris carefully crafted her communication strategy. Through her campaign, Kamala Harris is truly “Imagining what can be, unburdened by what has been.”

About the Author

Craig J. DeLuz has almost 30 years in public policy and advocacy.  He currently hosts a daily news and commentary show called The RUNDOWN. You can follow him on X at @CraigDeLuz.

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