Frustrated Republicans watching Vice President Kamala Harris climb in the polls have a straightforward suggestion for former President Donald Trump: focus on policy, and victory is within reach. However, the challenge lies in the fact that their candidate is Trump, a man who outmaneuvered policy expert Hillary Clinton in 2016 by capitalizing on emotions rather than detailed plans. Trump, who has always thrived on the power of vibes—an approach that prioritizes emotion and perception—understands that in a battle between concrete policies and compelling vibes, vibes often win.
This dynamic was evident in a recent exchange between Trump and his enthusiastic supporter, South Carolina Senator Lindsey Graham. Graham insisted that Trump could secure another win if he sticks to policy, but cautioned that Trump’s showmanship might jeopardize his chances. Trump’s dismissive response highlighted his confidence in the power of vibes over policy.
Despite Trump’s attempts to pivot towards policy to reassure concerned Republicans, he continues to rely heavily on vibes to energize his base, attract donations, and mobilize supporters. Meanwhile, Harris and her team have adeptly embraced the power of vibes, portraying Trump as out of touch and strange, especially given the eclectic mix of figures backing him, such as JD Vance, Robert F. Kennedy Jr., and Elon Musk.
As political strategist Patrick Gaspard recently noted, every election for the past two centuries has been driven by vibes rather than intricate policy proposals. While Harris is prepared to discuss her policies, her critics overlook the fact that Trump’s approach hinges on the belief that simply being present and projecting confidence can solve any issue.
Trump’s simplistic plan to tackle inflation, which involves directing his administration to combat rising prices, exemplifies his focus on vibes over substance. The reality is that most voters, preoccupied with their daily lives, are more likely to be swayed by how a candidate makes them feel than by detailed policy discussions.
In the end, the upcoming election seems poised to follow the pattern of previous ones, with vibes likely overshadowing policy. As Trump faces off against Harris, he is confronted with an opponent who, much like him in 2016, possesses an intangible “it factor” that could be difficult to overcome.
