My question of whether Vice President Kamala Harris wrote her own concession speech—or speeches like it—reflects a larger sentiment regarding the authenticity of political figures and their public addresses. The overwhelming sense that we are in the Truman Show. Watching Harris on stage, many viewers are left wondering how much of what they see is her unfiltered voice and how much has been shaped by teams of speechwriters, strategists, and public relations experts. From the repetitive language to the calculated pacing, certain elements of political speeches can stand out, leaving an impression of performance rather than genuine connection.
One particularly striking example is the repetitive phrasing, like “Hear me when I say, but hear me when I say,” which was designed to emphasize a point. In practice, however, it often sounds like overdone rhetoric—an attempt to evoke emotion more than convey substance. This type of repetition can feel forced, as though it was crafted for media sound bites rather than as part of a sincere dialogue with the American people. It’s common for speeches to include memorable phrases that rally supporters around specific ideas, but excessive repetition can sometimes make the speaker seem scripted and detached, which only feeds skepticism about whether these words genuinely belong to the politician delivering them.
Moreover, the use of a teleprompter—while standard for high-stakes speeches—adds another layer of separation. Teleprompters help politicians deliver a clear, uninterrupted message and prevent the risk of going off-topic or making unplanned remarks. But the subtle rhythm that teleprompters introduce can sometimes make the entire performance feel rehearsed: a glance at the screen, a few words spoken directly to the camera, a pause, and then a look back up to finish a line with emphasis. Harris, like many seasoned politicians, is skilled at navigating this technique. However, for viewers who desire raw, unscripted emotion, this polished style of speaking can feel more like a staged event than a heartfelt message.
The sensation of “puppetry” extends beyond Harris herself. The people involved in these events—campaign aides, audience members, even the media—can appear as though they, too, are performing a role rather than reacting organically. Speeches often occur before hand-picked audiences who have been briefed on when to cheer, applaud, or respond in unison. The calculated nature of these reactions adds to the sense that what we’re witnessing is less an honest exchange with the American public and more a carefully orchestrated play. To some, this environment of rehearsed responses, scripted speeches, and on-cue reactions leaves an impression that authenticity has been sacrificed in favor of maintaining image control.
Ultimately, politicians like Harris are public figures, dependent on teams of professionals to project an image and craft messages that resonate. This support system of speechwriters, strategists, and advisors aims to ensure that every word is purposeful and polished, every phrase calculated to inspire or reassure. Yet, for those watching, the sense of stagecraft can undermine the effectiveness of these efforts, making it harder to discern true sentiment amid the layers of presentation. The language, the teleprompter, the staging, and even the audience all contribute to an environment that, at times, feels manufactured. It’s a complex trade-off: the intention behind a well-crafted speech is to unite and inspire, yet when it feels overly rehearsed, it risks alienating viewers who are hoping for a candid, heartfelt conversation.
My Thought
In the end, this carefully orchestrated image leaves many feeling, "Disillusioned". As politics becomes more scripted, the barrier between politician and public only grows. For the average citizen, there’s an enduring hope for sincerity in the words of their leaders, a desire to believe that speeches are genuine expressions rather than polished performances. Yet, as long as image control remains a central focus, that hope remains difficult to satisfy.