Learn from the election 2024 from 5 Ways Trump Earned Voter Confidence (Why Kamala Missed the Mark)
In my ongoing debrief of the 2024 U.S. elections from a leadership standpoint, one major insight stands out: Donald Trump’s ability to build leadership influence despite facing a campaign budget that was four times smaller than Kamala Harris’s. This financial disparity did not prevent Trump from achieving a decisive victory, securing the popular vote, winning the Electoral College, gaining control of the Senate, and holding the House. His approach provides valuable lessons for leaders across industries on how to enhance their influence and effectiveness.
This article will explore five key strategies that contributed to Trump’s success and can be applied by senior managers, directors, and executives looking to strengthen their leadership presence. By examining these methods, leaders can learn how to connect more deeply with their teams, communicate with impact, and foster resilience—all crucial elements for driving meaningful results.
For further insights, consider reading these related articles: Trump’s Amazing Comeback from the Brink of Destruction: 5 Lessons for Leaders When They Are Down and Out read here and Why No Woman President for the USA, When India, Bangladesh, and Sri Lanka Have Had Female Leaders for Decades read here.
So let's start with looking at the 5 ways in which Trump was able to win voter confidence and the lessons in building influence every leader should know.
(I also have a video on this , in case you prefer watching/ hearing over reading)
Executive presence is a crucial aspect of leadership that goes beyond appearance and style—it’s about the depth of knowledge, experience, and the ability to command a room. It’s how leaders present themselves, backed by their inner confidence, proven expertise, and the substance they bring to their roles. Donald Trump’s ability to embody this presence was a significant factor in his 2024 campaign success. He presented himself as the “CEO of America,” a leader who exuded confidence, decisiveness, and a wealth of business and leadership experience that reassured voters of his capability to lead.
Trump’s executive presence was grounded in the depth of his subject matter expertise, which included a history of business achievements, global ventures, and his prior term as President of the United States. This impressive background painted him as a seasoned leader who understood how to make tough decisions, manage resources effectively, and advocate for policies that resonated with his base. His presence projected a level of mastery and authority that inspired confidence among voters, reinforcing their trust in him as a decision-maker who could guide the nation’s future.
On the other hand, Kamala Harris struggled to project this level of executive presence. While she had an impressive resume and significant political experience, her public speaking often appeared less confident, with a reliance on teleprompters and a tendency to be inconsistent in her messaging. Her demeanor sometimes resembled that of a schoolgirl, lacking the consistent, authoritative presence expected of a leader vying for the highest office. Additionally, her frequent chuckles and smiles, although not inherently problematic, did not convey the depth and seriousness that voters typically associate with executive leadership. This incongruity made it difficult for her to command the room in the way that Trump did.
To build executive presence:
The lessons from Trump’s executive presence are clear: it’s not just about appearances but the substance that backs them. True executive presence combines mastery of one’s domain, a proven history of success, and the ability to communicate with confidence and directness. This combination reassures teams and audiences, cultivating trust and loyalty essential for effective leadership.
Donald Trump’s leadership was marked by a clear and firm stance on several critical and often controversial issues. One of the defining aspects of his approach was his strong opposition to unnecessary wars. Trump made it clear that his priority was to redirect resources from foreign conflicts to address pressing domestic challenges, such as homelessness in the United States. He campaigned on the promise to end wars and foster peace, projecting a vision of leadership that was not only decisive but also aimed at prioritizing the well-being of the American people.
Trump's tenure demonstrated his commitment to this philosophy. Under his administration, the U.S. did not engage in new wars, which marked a significant departure from the military entanglements seen in previous administrations. This policy stance, coupled with his efforts to build rapport with global leaders—including Russian President Vladimir Putin—suggested that Trump could potentially negotiate peace agreements and resolve conflicts diplomatically. For instance, one notable example of his diplomatic outreach was the historic peace agreements brokered between Israel and Sudan in October 2020, which were unprecedented and celebrated as major diplomatic successes.
Furthermore, the market responded positively to Trump's strong stance, with stock markets reaching all-time highs. This reflected a broader confidence in his leadership and the perceived stability he brought to both the national and global stage.
In contrast, Kamala Harris struggled to project clarity and resolve. Her tenure as Vice President, alongside President Joe Biden, was marked by criticism over perceived inconsistencies and a lack of clear policy direction. Critics often pointed to the administration's perceived contradictions—promoting international aid and involvement while failing to deliver timely support for domestic crises. For example, during the North Carolina hurricane response, the federal government’s response was slow and insufficient, prompting private sector intervention and community efforts to address immediate needs. The administration's announcement of $2.4 billion in aid to Ukraine at the same time as offering only $750 per family in North Carolina highlighted a disconnect between foreign policy spending and domestic priorities. This decision was met with public frustration, fueling doubts about her leadership and priorities.
To inspire confidence and project strong leadership, consider these key strategies:
Trump’s history illustrates these lessons. His strong position against unnecessary wars and the redirection of funds to support domestic issues resonated with a segment of the American public that valued prioritizing national needs. His ability to maintain clear and direct communication, unafraid of public disapproval, reinforced his executive presence and inspired confidence among his supporters.
As a leader, showing up with a firm stance on critical matters—backed by well-defined policies and the courage to implement them—is what sets apart those who merely seek approval from those who inspire trust and loyalty. In times of change and crisis, leaders who project certainty and resolve will find that people are more inclined to follow them, invest their trust, and support their vision.
Trump’s approach to communication and policy was marked by clarity and consistency. His slogan, “Make America Great Again” (MAGA), resonated with simplicity and powerful messaging that people could rally behind. This clear and decisive vision encompassed initiatives such as MAHA (Make America Healthy Again) with Bobby Kennedy and DOGE (Drive Opportunities, Growth, and Entrepreneurship) with Elon Musk. These initiatives illustrated his focus on improving domestic well-being, efficiency, and economic growth. His policy stances were straightforward, like supporting tariffs to protect U.S. interests and taking a firm position against illegal immigration. These were the types of policies that resonated with voters who wanted clear, coherent leadership and a vision that could be easily communicated and understood.
Bobby Kennedy, a lifelong Democrat who left the party due to its perceived corruption, was an emblem of this strategic alignment. His support for Trump’s MAHA campaign underscored the bipartisan appeal Trump managed to cultivate among voters who felt disillusioned with the status quo. The partnership with Elon Musk highlighted Trump’s commitment to enhancing government efficiency and fostering a robust entrepreneurial environment. It sent a message that his administration would prioritize the American public's interests by making government more cost-effective and responsive.
Contrast this with Harris, who struggled with clear messaging and policy consistency. Her campaign was marked by contradictions, particularly in her approach to border security and immigration.
For example, while ads circulated showcasing her as pro-Israel to appeal to Jewish voters, other ads targeted Palestinian communities, portraying her as supportive of their cause. This inconsistent messaging not only eroded trust but also alienated key voter segments. Additionally, Harris and the Democratic administration faced criticism for their perceived lack of effective crisis response. During the North Carolina hurricane, the delayed and inadequate government response was so poor that private citizens had to step in to provide assistance. The government announced minimal aid for hurricane victims, only $750 per family, at the same time as it committed $2.4 billion to Ukraine. Such actions left voters questioning the administration’s priorities and commitment to American citizens.
Harris’s campaign also had issues with censorship, particularly on social media platforms. The Democratic stance on limiting free speech, especially with Twitter being a major hub for public discourse and news, fueled skepticism and anger among those who value freedom of expression. The refusal to recognize this shift in how people consume news and participate in public dialogue demonstrated a disconnect from voters' realities.
To inspire confidence:
As seen in Trump’s approach, decisive policies and clear communication foster trust and empower a leader's supporters to feel confident that their leader understands the challenges and has a plan. This sense of direction can turn uncertainty into unity, helping leaders navigate difficult times and maintaining public confidence.
Trump’s ability to connect with Americans on their everyday struggles—such as inflation, job creation, housing affordability, and more—was a cornerstone of his campaign. He spoke to voters’ concerns about issues that hit close to home, including the rising costs that affected young adults like 20- and 24-year-olds who, despite working hard, found themselves unable to afford a home or move out of their parents' houses. He addressed the anxiety around grocery bills for families of four and the broader economic stress gripping the nation.
One of Trump's strengths was his keen awareness of and direct engagement with these issues. Despite being a wealthy man, he managed to show he was relatable and connected to the average American. He spoke candidly about concerns such as gender surgeries and fairness in sports, appealing to families who felt their values were being sidelined in public discourse. This connection solidified trust in his leadership; people felt heard, and they believed that if he were elected, he would take action to address these challenges.
Trump's powerful statements, like his warning that “they’ll take away your dogs and cats,” resonated deeply. This remark, while controversial to some, tapped into the fear of everyday Americans about their personal freedoms and way of life. He spoke to communities like those in Springfield, where certain cultural practices were concerning to many. Although critics dismissed his comment as unpresidential, it ultimately endeared him to voters who appreciated his frankness and ability to bring real-life issues into political conversations. This specific statement even inspired a viral rap song mocking him, which ultimately backfired on those trying to undermine him—it went viral with 12 million views and strengthened his connection with the public.
In contrast, Harris’s campaign often felt disconnected from the economic pain points that voters faced daily. While she addressed social issues such as abortion rights and equal rights, she failed to sufficiently engage with pressing matters like inflation and housing costs. This disconnect led to voters feeling that she was out of touch with the primary concerns they faced. Her messages often seemed to contradict or diminish the significance of economic struggles, leaving people feeling dismissed or ignored.
Harris also faced challenges when addressing divisive issues like border security and immigration. Her stances appeared inconsistent, with different messages presented to different demographic groups—sometimes supporting pro-Israel positions and at other times focusing on pro-Palestinian narratives. This inconsistency contributed to a perception of her as people-pleasing and unclear, reducing trust in her leadership.
Leadership Lesson: Know What Really Matters
To build genuine connection:
Trump's communication was marked by simplicity and directness, allowing him to articulate his vision in a way that resonated with a broad audience. His campaigns were fueled by memorable slogans like “Make America Great Again” (MAGA), “Make America Healthy Again” (MAHA), and “Drive Opportunities, Growth, and Entrepreneurship” (DOGE). These clear and concise messages helped unify and energize his supporters, enabling them to share and repeat these ideas, reinforcing their connection to his campaign.
He showed up in person, engaging with communities, listening, and responding to their struggles. Whether meeting with families or addressing crowds at rallies, he conveyed an air of familiarity and approachability, similar to a family elder who understands and cares about what you’re going through.
As a leader, you need to embody this approach by identifying the issues that matter most to your audience and showing that you understand their struggles. When there are protests or pushback within your organization, don't dismiss them. Take the time to listen and develop solutions that resonate with the concerns being expressed. This kind of genuine, empathetic leadership builds trust, strengthens loyalty, and fosters a deep, meaningful connection.
Trump's endorsements from high-profile figures like Elon Musk, Tulsi Gabbard, Robert Kennedy, and Vivek Ramaswamy significantly enhanced his credibility. These alliances underscored him as a leader trusted by sharp, independent thinkers. Furthermore, his willingness to appear on platforms like Joe Rogan's podcast and engage in unscripted, long-form conversations showcased his authenticity, helping build trust with voters. In marketing, long-form content is crucial because it allows deeper connection, fostering "know, like, and trust" with audiences. The ability to speak freely for hours without a script, as Trump did, is hard to fake and resonates with the public’s desire for genuine leadership.
In contrast, Kamala Harris’s endorsements, while numerous, often felt superficial. Despite having support from influential figures like Bill Gates and many celebrities, her campaign lacked the depth and personal connection seen in Trump’s. Her reluctance to participate in unscripted interviews further diminished her perceived authenticity. For instance, when invited to join Joe Rogan's podcast, she declined, highlighting her reliance on her team for scripted communications and diminishing voter confidence. Additionally, when teleprompters failed, Harris’s struggle to speak fluently made her appear unprepared and reliant on external guidance.
Trump's campaign also featured iconic images and moments that added to his visibility and relatability. Videos and images of him interacting casually, such as serving at McDonald's, resonated deeply with average Americans, enhancing the perception of him as a leader in touch with the people. Pictures of him on a garbage truck, dressed in work attire, and making a point about respecting the working class emphasized his connection to everyday citizens and reinforced his core message of patriotism and working-class solidarity.
The stark contrast came with Harris's campaign, which, despite having celebrity endorsements and billionaire backing, failed to inspire transformative voter confide
nce. While stars like Oprah Winfrey and Jennifer Lopez added short-term buzz, they did not create lasting connections. An anecdote that underscores this was the moment when a celebrity was seen twerking on stage at one of Harris's events. Such spectacles, while attention-grabbing, did not foster the deep trust that voters sought.
Trump's leadership journey exemplified a "hero's journey," marked by struggles and comebacks that resonated emotionally with voters. Despite facing numerous challenges, including legal battles and public scrutiny, he presented himself as a resilient figure determined to fight for the American people. This narrative played a significant role in mobilizing his base, who were inspired by the idea that Trump was fighting against the odds to restore American greatness. The message was not solely about the individual but about a broader vision to "Make America Great Again," which tapped into a deep sense of national pride and optimism.
As a leader, building lasting influence requires more than just visibility or financial backing—it demands authenticity, genuine connections, and strategic partnerships. By prioritizing these elements, you cultivate trust and resonate deeply with those you lead. Drawing from Trump’s resonant endorsements and unscripted moments, as well as the lessons from how leaders engage with both supporters and skeptics, you can develop a leadership style that inspires confidence and loyalty. The most effective leaders don’t just seek attention; they build relationships, share their journeys openly, and demonstrate that they stand with their people through challenges and triumphs.
If you’re ready to elevate your leadership presence and create meaningful influence, I invite you to join the LeadWithEASE Academy. This step-by-step program is designed to guide you from where you are now to the next level in your leadership, helping you grow from the inside out and make an impact that lasts.
Categories: : Leadership