Evolution of Candidate Interviews Alters Traditional Media Practices

During the 2024 presidential campaign, Vice President Kamala Harris has been relatively inaccessible to journalists. Since becoming the Democratic nominee, she has refrained from giving interviews and engaging with reporters. However, this is set to change as her lack of accessibility becomes a campaign issue. Harris, who usually travels with journalists on Air Force Two, has previously spoken off the record. Nonetheless, during a recent public appearance, she mentioned plans to arrange a detailed interview before the end of the month.

Former President Donald Trump, currently a Republican opponent, has criticized Harris for her avoidance of news conferences. The evolving landscape of candidate interviews has shifted due to modern campaigning strategies, emphasizing strict control over the narrative. With various platforms available for candidates to convey their messages directly to voters, the traditional importance of interviews with journalists has diminished over time.

The New York Times highlighted the significance of candidates engaging with journalists and the public to discuss their records and proposals. While Harris’ late entry into the race allowed her to bypass early vetting, it remains crucial for her to address questions from voters and journalists alike. However, Harris has yet to respond to interview requests from media outlets such as The New York Times.

Biden’s approach to interviews and press conferences has influenced Harris and her team, mirroring a trend of reduced accessibility among politicians. Despite Trump’s frequent engagements with the media, his discussions often occur with supportive figures rather than challenging interviewers. The focus has shifted towards utilizing various media outlets and social platforms to disseminate messages directly to a receptive audience.

As the role of traditional interviews diminishes, there is still a segment of undecided voters who value direct interactions between candidates and journalists. While campaigning strategies evolve, the fundamental importance of engaging with the press remains a crucial component of the political process. Plans for future interviews with Harris indicate a potential shift towards more direct communication between candidates and reporters.