Time magazine’s recent cover story on Vice President Kamala Harris has been met with widespread criticism for its lack of substance and its fawning portrayal of the politician. The article, titled “Her Moment,” presents a highly romanticized image of Harris, drawing comparisons to pop culture icons like Beyoncé and Taylor Swift, while offering little in the way of actual analysis or factual information.
The criticism stems from the fact that Harris has refused to give any substantive interviews or press conferences, leaving her political stances and actions largely unexamined. The Time article itself admits that Harris “has yet to do a single substantive interview or to explain her policy shifts,” and that her campaign denied a request for an interview.
This stands in stark contrast to the extensive coverage and scrutiny given to former President Donald Trump, who was interviewed by Time for a cover story in April. That interview went on for over an hour, resulting in a lengthy transcript and a “fact check” article. The contrasting treatment highlights a double standard in the media, with Harris seemingly granted a free pass while Trump is subjected to relentless scrutiny.
Critics argue that the media’s portrayal of Harris is driven by a desire to present a positive narrative, rather than a genuine attempt to hold her accountable. They point to the repeated use of vague and emotionally charged language, such as “momentum” and “joyous warrior,” which serves to create a sense of excitement and inevitability around Harris’s candidacy.
This fawning coverage is particularly concerning given the lack of transparency surrounding Harris’s policies and actions. The media’s willingness to overlook these shortcomings raises questions about its objectivity and its role in shaping public perception. The article’s reliance on superficial imagery and comparisons, instead of substance and accountability, further reinforces the perception of the media as a tool for promoting a desired narrative, rather than a source of reliable information.
The criticism of Time magazine’s article on Kamala Harris reflects a larger concern about the state of political journalism. In an increasingly polarized political landscape, the media’s role in providing unbiased and informative coverage has become crucial. However, the fawning portrayal of Harris raises concerns about whether the media is fulfilling this role, or instead serving as a mouthpiece for a particular political agenda.