In a revelation that underscores the escalating tensions in the 2024 presidential race, former President Donald Trump has reportedly referred to Vice President Kamala Harris as a "bitch" on multiple occasions. The New York Times, citing two sources who overheard the remarks, reported that Trump used the slur during private conversations, further intensifying the already contentious battle between the two political heavyweights.
Trump's spokesperson, Steven Cheung, has denied the allegations, asserting, "That is not language President Trump has used to describe Kamala and it's not how the campaign would characterize her." However, the former president's history of using derogatory language to describe women, particularly those in positions of power, has been well-documented throughout his career.
This latest report adds to the long list of controversies surrounding Trump's rhetoric. During his 2016 campaign against Hillary Clinton, similar language was prevalent at his rallies, with "TRUMP THAT BITCH" T-shirts and bumper stickers becoming commonplace among his supporters. The phrase, which became a rallying cry for many of his followers, was even acknowledged by Trump during a rally when he pointed to an attendee wearing one of the shirts and smiled.
Trump's use of misogynistic language has been a recurring theme. In the infamous 2005 Access Hollywood tape, Trump was caught on camera boasting about his ability to "grab women by the pussy" because of his celebrity status. The tape also captured him making derogatory comments about a woman he had pursued unsuccessfully, stating, "I moved on her like a bitch."
In another instance, during a meeting about NATO in the Oval Office, Trump reportedly referred to then-German Chancellor Angela Merkel as "that bitch." While Trump's spokesperson denied the claim, the incident is one of many where the former president has allegedly used such language in reference to women.
Harris, who officially became the Democratic Party's presidential nominee following President Joe Biden's withdrawal from the race, has been the target of numerous insults from Trump. He has repeatedly questioned her competence, claiming she "can't do an interview" and is "barely competent." In a recent interview with Fox & Friends, Trump remarked that he had heard Harris was "sort of a nasty person but not a good debater," echoing a line of attack he used against Clinton during the 2016 campaign.
Trump's reported comments have raised concerns among his advisers, who worry that such language could alienate female voters-a critical demographic in the upcoming election. Axios reported that Trump's advisers are concerned about his use of misogynistic language, fearing it could backfire during a public debate. According to one top Republican source, Trump is struggling to move past his anger, and his team is working to refocus his message to avoid further damaging his campaign.
The stakes in the 2024 election are high, and Trump's rhetoric could have significant implications for his chances. Recent polls show Harris gaining momentum in key swing states, with the latest New York Times/Siena College survey showing her leading Trump by four points among likely voters in Wisconsin, Michigan, and Pennsylvania. This marks a significant shift in the race, as Trump had previously been tied or ahead in many battleground states before Biden exited the race.
Trump's campaign has responded by ramping up its efforts, including a $37 million ad blitz, the largest single-day ad buy of the cycle. Despite these efforts, the campaign has faced internal challenges, with advisers expressing concerns about Trump's messaging and public appearances.
As the election season heats up, the battle between Trump and Harris is likely to become even more intense. With both candidates vying for the highest office in the land, their words and actions will be closely scrutinized by voters. Trump's reported use of the slur against Harris is just the latest development in what promises to be a fiercely contested race.
