Public communication and leadership: A study of Trump and Harris' public speeches

Document Type : Case Study

Authors

1 Department of International Relations, faculty of humanities, Shahrood branch, Islamic Azad University, Shahrood, Iran.

2 Department of International Relations, Faculty of Humanities, Shahrood Branch, Islamic Azad University, Shahrood, Iran.

Abstract

This article analyzes the impact of the different leadership styles of Trump and Harris on American public opinion, with a special focus on the speeches of Donald Trump and Kamala Harris between 2016 and 2024, concentrating on four key speeches from each of them. The main objective of this research is to examine how public communication is used to shape leadership roles and influence audiences. This study employs a qualitative content analysis method to evaluate the speeches of both politicians, as well as related statistical data to measure their effects. The findings indicate that Trump and Harris employ distinctly different public communication styles, leading to notable differences in how their messages are received and how audiences react. Trump utilizes a straightforward rhetorical style, relying on message repetition to evoke emotions and capture attention, while Harris adopts a more complex and emotionally charged approach, focusing on issues such as social justice and racial equality. These stylistic differences play a crucial role not only in the content of their messages, but also in the extent of their influence on various societal groups. Ultimately, the study concludes that public communication in political leadership serves as a powerful tool that can shape perspectives and garner public support. However, the effectiveness of this tool heavily depends on the leader's personality traits and communication strategies. This research contributes to a deeper understanding of the role of public communication in the success of political leaders and its impact on voter behavior.

Keywords

Main Subjects

حوزة موضوعی: ایالات متحدة آمریکا

Scope: USA

References

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Journal of Countries Studies
Volume 3, Issue 1
2025
Pages 141-162

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History

  • Receive Date: 28 September 2024
  • Revise Date: 23 October 2024
  • Accept Date: 03 November 2024

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