Former Vice President Kamala Harris has shed light on the complexities of her 2020 presidential campaign in her memoir, “107 Days.” The book reveals the extensive preparation and high-profile collaborations that shaped her political narrative. Harris candidly discusses the significant effort that went into her speech at the National Democratic Convention, stating, “I did twenty-seven drafts of my convention speech. I knew what was riding on it.” Her commitment to crafting an impactful address reflects the weight of the moment and the stakes for her candidacy.
Harris credits director Greta Gerwig, known for her work on “Barbie” and “Little Women,” with helping her refine her delivery. Gerwig encouraged Harris to connect emotionally with her audience, advising, “When you speak about your family, see their faces.” This artistic guidance extended beyond mere logistics, demonstrating that even political speeches can benefit from insights found in creative fields.
Harris’ campaign also leaned heavily into modern social media strategies. She recounts how British singer-songwriter Charli XCX’s endorsement branded her as “edgy, imperfect, confident, embracing.” This branding shift energized her supporters with a fresh visual identity, illustrated by her campaign’s use of XCX’s signature lime green. The collaboration with high-profile celebrities drew younger voters into her sphere, further amplifying her message. “From then on, our rebranded Kamala HQ social media site was awash in her signature color,” she notes, demonstrating the effective blend of culture and politics.
Media platforms like TikTok played an essential role in her outreach. Harris’s campaign thrived as videos set to contemporary hits circulated, capturing the attention and interests of a dynamic electorate. The musical backdrop offered a lens into her campaign’s adaptability to the fast-paced digital landscape.
However, despite these calculated moves, Harris faced unexpected challenges. She described being “ambushed” by a surprise interview on a podcast just days before the election. “What the f— was that?” she recalled asking her staff after the experience left her feeling unprepared. Her frustration underscores the need for meticulous coordination, especially in high-stakes environments. Harris emphasizes her preference for “well prepped” interactions, highlighting the intricacies of public appearances in political life.
The dynamics of campaign events are also explored through her inspirations from the music world. For one rally, Harris secured performances from Megan Thee Stallion and Quavo to attract a broader audience. “Did it seem too California, too Hollywood?” she questioned regarding the inclusion of celebrity appearances, acknowledging the fine line between appeal and perception in her strategy. This approach illustrated a desire to bring more vibrant energy to her campaign while also addressing concerns about authenticity.
Endorsements from prominent figures continued to shape her perception leading up to the election. Taylor Swift offered her support during a key debate against former President Trump, signaling a significant cultural moment. The musician’s endorsement helped Harris navigate the complicated landscape of modern campaigning, where celebrity influence intertwines with political discourse. “The night of her debate against Trump,” Harris noted, “Swift called herself a ‘Childless Cat Lady’ in a nod to comments by Vice President JD Vance.”
Throughout the course of her campaign, Harris attracted a plethora of celebrity endorsements. Figures like Beyoncé, Oprah Winfrey, and Bruce Springsteen publicly rallied for her, showcasing the multifaceted nature of her platform. These endorsements did more than merely raise her profile; they signified a cultural crossover that blurred the lines between entertainment and politics.
With her candid revelations in “107 Days,” Harris offers a comprehensive look at the modern political landscape, where preparation, branding, and strategic partnerships collide. Her experiences serve as a reminder of the inherent challenges faced by candidates striving to connect, resonate, and ultimately succeed in the often tumultuous world of politics.
"*" indicates required fields
