After the DNC convention adopted an infomercial style format, it was refreshing to have a real live convention taking place in Charlotte at the RNC. Sure, there was some taped infomericals and plenty of social distancing, but the contrast with the DNC’s infomercial was notable. The RNC’s theme was America, Land of Promise and they did everything to convey a positive, strong image. As Nate Silver said, “There’s clearly a subtext here of preserving the tradition of conventions and trying to emphasize that things are “normal.”
The RNC focused initially on the COVID response, highlighting the efforts of first responders, doctors and nurses to respond to COVID. There was a stark contrast between President Trump meeting with everyday Americans in person, while Biden was waiving to screens, scared of meeting in person. We thought Herschel Walker, the Georgia football great, was particularly effective, humanizing Trump to middle class voters and defending Trump against charges of racism. There was also a consistent theme of hard working Americans who could achieve their dreams.
There were also numerous appeals to patriotism, capitalism, family and freedom. Earlier this week Biden said that he would shut the country down again. Trump’s videos made clear that he is trying to reopen the country. In addition, he highlighted the efforts to bring Americans home from captivity overseas. There were also speeches from Cuban-Americans extolling President Trump and his defense against communism and totalitarianism. Freedom over oppression. Former Ambassador Nikki Haley was also very effective in contrasting Trump with Biden and highlighting the virtues of America. Her speech looked very presidential. In fact, we think she is the lead candidate for 2024. The closing speech was delivered by Senator Tim Scott, who spoke eloquently about the promise of America.
Our takeaway is that the RNC’s convention is trying to appeal to the middle class, rural voters that elected Trump in 2016. The contrast with the DNC’s appeal to Hollywood and the global elites was stark. Our conclusion is that this was a good first day to the RNC.
NewEnglandPolitics.com 