If you're looking to stay informed on Vice President Kamala Harris' growing prominence as a potential Democratic nominee this fall, understanding the role of memes is crucial. Following President Joe Biden's exit from the 2024 presidential race and his endorsement of Harris, a surge of Harris-related memes has flooded social media platforms.
Supporters of Harris have taken to the internet to express their backing for her candidacy by creating new iterations of memes that were previously used by her critics. This wave of attention, including celebrity endorsements, aims to combat American apathy and engage younger voters, a demographic vital for Democrats in the upcoming election.
One prevalent meme is the 'coconut tree,' originating from a speech where Harris referenced her mother's phrase, 'You think you just fell out of a coconut tree?' Initially used to criticize Harris, this phrase has now been embraced by her supporters, symbolizing authenticity and relatability.
Another meme, 'brat,' has gained traction, with pop musician Charli XCX associating Harris with her album 'brat.' This connection has sparked viral content on social media platforms, further amplifying Harris' campaign.
Additionally, Harris' mention of Venn diagrams during an event in 2022 has resurfaced, with her campaign utilizing this reference to highlight shared priorities between the Biden and Harris operations.
The focus on memes and social media engagement is strategic, particularly in appealing to younger voters who have shown a more favorable view of Harris compared to Biden. By leveraging these cultural references and online trends, Harris aims to resonate with a demographic that values relatability and authenticity in political figures.
Overall, the use of memes in Harris' campaign signifies a shift towards a more digitally savvy and culturally attuned approach to politics, recognizing the influence of social media in shaping public perception and engagement.
