The art of public speaking remains a critical skill for politicians, especially those holding high offices. However, Megyn Kelly, the host of "The Megyn Kelly Show" podcast, recently expressed strong criticisms of Vice President Kamala Harris' public speaking abilities. Following Harris' appearance on The View on January 17, Kelly shared her opinions on the Vice President's performance on her podcast aired on January 18.
Kelly, a veteran journalist, criticized Harris for her lack of coherence when speaking without a script. She remarked, "She was on The View yesterday, being universally praised in the left-wing press, how amazing and powerful she was, which are words you never hear about Kamala Harris." Kelly suggested that Harris' attempts at being profound often fall flat and lack the authenticity and connection necessary to truly engage an audience.
A key issue for Kelly seems to be Harris' approach to communicating complex ideas to her audience. While Kelly herself talks about intricate matters on her show, she emphasized that she never treats her audience as incapable of understanding such complexities. In contrast, Kelly accused Harris of talking down to her listeners, saying, "She talks to the people listening to her like she thinks they're on the short bus. Forgive me, but she does..."
Kelly extended her criticism to compare Harris unfavorably with Oprah Winfrey, a renowned media personality known for her impactful and inspiring communication style. "All I feel is insulted. My intelligence is insulted. I'm bored by you. I'm offended by you," Kelly stated, implying that Harris lacks the depth and insightful nature that made Oprah's speeches resonate with her audience.
During her appearance on The View, Harris touched upon several topics, including former President Donald Trump's potential re-election and concerns about women's rights. She also defended President Joe Biden's capabilities despite his advanced age, stating, "We have a president in Joe Biden who is forward thinking in a way that we've not seen in a long time."
Public speaking in politics is not just about conveying information; it's about connecting with the audience and inspiring them to action or reflection. As Kelly's critique highlights, the effectiveness of a political figure's communication can significantly impact public perception and the ability to rally support for their causes and initiatives. Harris' approach, as seen through Kelly's lens, appears to miss the mark in creating that connection, leading to criticisms about the authenticity and impact of her public addresses.
