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The Choice 2024: Harris vs. Trump (full documentary) | FRONTLINE

FRONTLINE PBS | Official・78 minutes read

The 2024 election presents a stark choice between candidates Kamala Harris and Donald Trump, showcasing their diverse backgrounds and paths to the political stage, with Harris emphasizing unity and Trump relying on aggressive tactics and showmanship. Despite their different approaches, both candidates face challenges and controversies that shape their careers and impact public perception, leading to Harris' struggles with defining her ideology and Trump's handling of crises like COVID-19 and impeachment, culminating in significant events like the Capitol riot.

Insights

  • Kamala Harris's upbringing in a diverse community and strong family influences shaped her values of fairness, equality, and identity acceptance, crucial for her future political career.
  • Donald Trump's upbringing, marked by a competitive spirit instilled by his father and pivotal moments at military school, laid the foundation for his leadership skills and aggressive business and political strategies.
  • Trump's aggressive legal tactics, influenced by Roy Cohn, and his ability to strategically pick fights that resonate with his base, regardless of validity, have been key elements in his rise to power and political success.

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Recent questions

  • Who are the key candidates in the 2024 campaign?

    Donald Trump and KLA Harris

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Summary

00:00

2024 Election: Harris vs Trump - Contrasting Candidates

  • The 2024 campaign is in full swing, with Donald Trump and KLA Harris as the key candidates.
  • Harris demands respect and emphasizes the importance of the country's future.
  • The stark choice in the 2024 election is between Harris and Trump, two very different candidates.
  • Trump's upbringing is described as normal, with a strong, dynamic father who instilled a competitive spirit in him.
  • Trump's father favored his older brother initially, leading Trump to fight for his place in the family.
  • Trump's time at military school was pivotal, shaping his leadership skills and competitive nature.
  • Kamala Harris grew up in a diverse community in Berkeley, influenced by her parents' immigrant backgrounds.
  • Harris's mother, Shamala, was a strong influence, instilling values of fighting for fairness and equality.
  • Harris faced racial slurs growing up due to her biracial heritage, but her mother ensured she embraced her black identity.
  • Harris's friendship with Wanda Kagan played a crucial role in her life, as Kagan supported her through abuse and provided a safe haven.

20:05

Influential Figures: Harris, Trump, and Cohn

  • Kamala Harris was inspired by her friend in Canada to fight for people's rights and justice, shaping her career.
  • Donald Trump, heir to a real estate empire, faced a racial bias lawsuit in 1973 by the federal government.
  • The Trump organization was accused of discriminating against people of color in apartment rentals.
  • Trump sought advice from Roy Cohn, known for aggressive legal tactics, who advised him to fight back.
  • Trump counter-sued the Justice Department for $100 million, showcasing his counter-punching style.
  • Despite settling out of court, Trump and Cohn viewed it as a victory, emphasizing the court of public opinion.
  • Roy Cohn's approach of fighting back aggressively influenced Trump's business and political strategies.
  • Kamala Harris's time at Howard University shaped her passion for justice and her interest in the legal system.
  • Joining Alpha Kappa Alpha sorority at Howard instilled in Harris the importance of excellence and preparation.
  • Harris's decision to become a prosecutor, despite community skepticism, aimed to bring change from within the system.

39:46

"Men's rules hinder women; Trump's ambition"

  • Rules have been written by men for over 2,000 years, leading to double the effort and harsher judgment for women.
  • A politician refuses to engage in personal attacks during a campaign, focusing on voters' interests.
  • The politician distances herself from discussing scandalous behavior, leading to applause and a 12% victory.
  • Overcoming negativity without letting it affect you is highlighted as a superpower and a key to success.
  • Donald Trump contemplates running for president if he lost his fortune, influenced by others' suggestions.
  • Trump's political aspirations are encouraged by Roger Stone, a Nixon operative, due to his showmanship and appeal.
  • Trump's political ambitions are showcased in a dress rehearsal in New Hampshire, emphasizing confidence and strength.
  • Trump's image as a successful businessman is built through "The Apprentice," shaping his presidential aspirations.
  • Kamala Harris faces challenges as a district attorney, including a police officer's tragic death and the death penalty debate.
  • Harris's approach to politics evolves, becoming more cautious and defensive of law enforcement, leading to criticism and alliances.

58:13

Trump and Harris: Political Rise and Resilience

  • Donald Trump strategically picks fights that resonate with millions of Americans, regardless of the claims' validity.
  • Trump gains momentum but faces humiliation at the White House Correspondents' Dinner, motivating him to run for president.
  • Kamala Harris, the first female African-American Indian-American California Attorney General, faces challenges in a male-dominated field.
  • Harris focuses on popular issues like fighting big banks and for-profit colleges, avoiding controversial topics like marijuana legalization.
  • Despite criticism for not taking strong stances, Harris's approach proves successful, making her a rising star in the Democratic Party.
  • Trump forms an alliance with televangelist Paula White, leveraging her influence with evangelicals for his presidential campaign.
  • Trump's fiery rhetoric and controversial statements solidify his base's loyalty, even in the face of scandals like the Access Hollywood tape.
  • Kamala Harris enters the national stage, running for the U.S. Senate during the tumultuous 2016 election, facing the prospect of a Trump presidency.
  • Harris's response to the election results showcases her resilience and determination to fight for her values in the face of adversity.
  • Donald Trump's presidency is marked by chaos, controversy, and rapid decision-making, with a focus on maintaining a strong defense against criticism and investigations.

01:17:31

Trump's Presidency: Rise, Fall, and Chaos.

  • Trump's response to Charlottesville and birtherism is seen as using race to solidify his base.
  • Trump is acquitted in his impeachment trial, ending a 5-month war with Democrats.
  • Trump's popularity soared in February 2020, but then the COVID-19 pandemic hit.
  • Trump's handling of COVID-19 crisis was based on his past experiences and beliefs.
  • Despite initial confidence, Trump's handling of COVID-19 led to a decline in popularity.
  • Kamala Harris's rise in politics, from prosecutor to senator, is highlighted.
  • Harris's attack on Biden during debates and her subsequent campaign struggles are detailed.
  • Harris's campaign lacked a clear ideology, leading to its collapse before the Iowa caucuses.
  • Biden chooses Harris as his running mate, emphasizing unity and healing for America.
  • Trump's refusal to accept defeat in the 2020 election culminates in the January 6 Capitol riot.

01:36:24

Kamala Harris: Vice President's Controversial Journey

  • Kamala Harris was closely involved in decision-making and learning the job from day one as Vice President.
  • Her first major assignment was to address the board crisis in Guatemala, focusing on Central American countries sending migrants to the US.
  • Harris emphasized the importance of enforcing US laws and securing the border, despite being an advocate for immigrant rights.
  • Her remarks on not coming to the US caused controversy and shifted perceptions, especially on the left.
  • In an interview, Harris faced criticism for not visiting the border, leading to a defensive response that was widely viewed as catastrophic.
  • Harris faced doubts about her readiness for serious governance, with criticisms of her lack of knowledge and articulation.
  • She later focused on reviving her political career through public appearances and speeches, showcasing her strengths and fighting spirit.
  • Harris passionately spoke out against attempts to restrict women's rights, showing her determination and readiness to fight for important causes.
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