Image via The Everygirl
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Democratic presidential nominee Kamala Harris was previously a guest on Call Her Daddy. This top-rated, raunchy podcast is one of the definitive examples of a new era of unapologetic, frank conversations about sex, relationships, and modern womanhood. The appearance ignited conversation about the new age of political strategy amid a younger generation’s growing dependence on new forms of media to get their news.
Donald Trump has also been on a media tour aimed at Gen Z, appearing on platforms with an overwhelming Gen Z listening base, such as Andrew Schulz’s Flagrant and This Past Weekend with Theo Von. This is paired with the fact that Trump canceled his interview with 60 Minutes, the first time a presidential nominee had denied the platform’s nationally aired election special in 55 years.
Trump’s absence from traditional media platforms signifies a significant shift in political communication. It reflects a new era where political figures strive to connect directly with their audience, free from the influence of traditional media gatekeepers. They now craft their narratives through platforms that offer more intimate, unfiltered engagement with the public.
Yet, any evolution comes with questions. In the context of the political relationship with an evolving media landscape, the question central to this evolution is how politicians choose the platforms to share their views—and how this choice impacts the authenticity of their message.
Kamala Harris’s appearance on Call Her Daddy is a prime example that underscores the complexity of the evolving political strategies. Her presence on the podcast, which highlighted the importance of women’s rights, a central theme of her campaign, was somewhat controversial. The mere association with a show that often delves into sexually explicit topics sparked a significant debate, raising questions about the evolving political landscape. In fact, just four days before the Kamala Harris interview premiered, an episode featuring Heather McMahan was released under the title “Blow Jobs, Hall Passes, and Frat Daddies.” The title, along with the episode’s content, is consistent with the Call Her Daddy brand—a podcast that consistently delves into topics considered too vulgar or sexually explicit for many audiences.
Critics questioned if associating with such a controversial show trivialized Harris’s message, potentially undermining the seriousness of her campaign.
The host of Call Her Daddy, Alex Cooper, responded to the backlash against featuring Harris. She acknowledged her “mixed audience when it comes to politics,” but she also emphasized her intent not to “change your (her listeners) political affliction.”
The controversy might not change the outcome of the election, and will probably not be a talking point when Election Day arrives. However, it does reflect the growing tension throughout politics about the importance of authenticity in the face of new forms of communication being used to push political agendas.
The risks and rewards of politicians spreading their message through unconventional media spaces are very much in their infancy. Harris’s decision to discuss women’s rights—a critical issue for her campaign—on a podcast known for its frank and explicit discussions may have sparked debate. Still, it exemplifies her willingness to meet voters in spaces they frequent, particularly younger women.
Ultimately, whether these new-age platforms will enhance or undermine political discourse remains. Politicians must balance relatability with the gravitas of their message. Still, stepping into uncharted media territory opens new avenues for connection—albeit with the challenge of maintaining authenticity and message integrity in a rapidly changing media landscape.
