Comment on “Harris Leads Debate Amid Mutual Criticism — Policy Unclear, Support Remains Uncertain” [in Japanese]
On September 11, 2024, a comment by Professor Maiko Ichihara (Graduate School of Law) on the Asahi shimbun article “Harris Leads Debate Amid Mutual Criticism — Policy Unclear, Support Remains Uncertain” was published. The article reported on the first debate between the U.S. Vice President Kamala Harris (at the time) and former President Donald Trump (at the time), following Harris’s announcement of her candidacy in the 2024 presidential election. Professor Ichihara noted the contrast between the two candidates, observing that while Trump appeared unprepared and on the defensive, Harris projected composure and approachability—an impression that could influence voters. She also pointed out that the debate conveyed an exaggerated sense of societal confusion caused by rampant misinformation and conspiracy theories, suggesting that this may have led viewers to feel the need for a president who can effectively address such issues.
