The New York Times made headlines by endorsing Vice President Kamala Harris as the “only patriotic choice” for president on Monday. This endorsement comes amidst a noticeable effort from the media, especially the Times, to promote her campaign.
In their announcement, the Times’ Editorial Board expressed concerns about the current political climate and the values held by some candidates. They highlighted Harris as a dedicated public servant who has consistently displayed care, competence, and a strong commitment to upholding the Constitution. While she may not be the ideal candidate for all voters, her policies and experience set her apart from her competitors.
As soon as Kamala Harris entered the presidential race, media coverage underwent a significant transformation. National Review’s Noah Rothman observed this change in August, noting that journalists seemed determined to turn Harris into a “rock star.” This shift is evidenced by a 16-point increase in her approval rating from January to July of last year, reaching approximately 48 percent.
Television networks have also played a significant role in promoting Kamala Harris as a presidential candidate. A Media Research Center study found that they provided her with 84 percent positive coverage while generating 89 percent negative coverage for former President Donald Trump. As the campaign season continues, it remains to be seen how the media will shape public opinion and influence election outcomes.