By: Ezenwa Francisca
In a political landscape often dominated by male figures, the contrasting journeys of underscore a deep-rooted societal bias. As Donald Trump returns to the presidency in 2024, with Kamala Harris as his competitor, the disparity in how their leadership styles are perceived reveals a persistent scepticism toward women in power. This scrutiny, often shaped by traditional gender norms, continues to challenge the credibility and achievements of female leaders, especially women of colour.
The 2024 U.S. presidential election, which saw Donald Trump’s re-election as the 47th president, also marked another milestone in Kamala Harris’s political career. As the first woman of color to serve as Vice President, Harris faced not only the pressures of political competition but also the weight of a societal lens that frequently doubts women in leadership roles.
Donald Trump’s ascent to power has always been characterized by his unapologetic style—a businessman-turned-politician whose brash confidence captured public attention. His leadership, often controversial, was lauded by supporters as bold and effective. His disregard for traditional political norms, like the expectation to adhere strictly to decorum in formal proceedings, did not diminish his influence; instead, it was interpreted by many as a refreshing display of strength.
In stark contrast, Kamala Harris’s experiences reflect the obstacles that many women, particularly women of color, face in similar positions of power. Her leadership, which often mirrored the same decisiveness and energy praised in Trump, was frequently met with skepticism. From questioning her decision-making abilities to downplaying her achievements, the scrutiny Harris endured highlights a gender bias still prevalent in American politics.
Where Trump’s statements and assertive conduct were often seen as hallmarks of strong leadership, Harris’s confidence was, at times, viewed as overly ambitious or aggressive. This double standard points to a cultural mentality that continues to hold women, especially minority women, to a different standard. Qualities that are celebrated in male leaders can become points of criticism when demonstrated by women.
The contrasting treatment of Trump and Harris underscores a broader societal challenge: the enduring difficulty in embracing women leaders with the same acceptance afforded to their male counterparts. As the political landscape evolves, the scrutiny faced by female leaders highlights the need for a shift in how leadership is perceived, moving beyond gender biases to value competence and vision, regardless of who is in power.
