Kamala Harris is strategically responding to allegations of Donald Trump’s fascist tendencies, while Trump dismisses these claims. Vice President Harris and former President Trump were both active on the campaign trail, with recent stops in Texas. Despite Texas being considered a predictable win for Trump, both candidates visited to draw attention to pivotal issues: Trump highlighted immigration, while Harris focused on abortion rights.
Texas, having the longest border with Mexico, remains central to immigration debates. Concurrently, the state has become a critical battleground for discussions on abortion restrictions. During his visit, Trump engaged in a three-hour interview with prominent podcaster Joe Rogan, whereas Harris appeared alongside global music icon Beyoncé, who offered a powerful endorsement.
The topic of fascism has surfaced in the 2024 U.S. presidential election discourse, fueled by reports from The New York Times and The Atlantic. Concerns originate from statements by military leaders troubled by Trump’s alleged proclivity to employ military forces for political ends, including post-2020 election activities. John Kelly, a retired Marine general and former Trump Chief of Staff, has publicly labeled Trump a fascist, suggesting he might use government mechanisms to quash dissent. Other high-ranking military officials have echoed similar sentiments.
In her campaign, Harris has labeled Trump as a democracy threat, while also speaking on reproductive rights in Texas. Conversely, Trump highlights issues of migrant-related crime and invests heavily in advertisements concerning transgender rights. Each campaign zeroes in on themes designed to galvanize their voter bases. Trump appeals to voters’ concerns about immigration and societal changes like gender-neutral accommodations, while Harris contrasts on reproductive rights, framing it as a matter of personal freedom, and underscores a commitment to democracy.
Ron Elving, NPR senior editor and correspondent, discussed these campaign strategies and thematic focuses on the NPR broadcast.
