On a recent episode of “The Late Show,” Vice President Kamala Harris shared a light-hearted moment with host Stephen Colbert as they enjoyed a beer together. This interaction was framed as an attempt to soften Harris’s public image, adhering to the familiar political adage that likability can be swayed by a simple gesture such as sharing a drink. Colbert initiated this tradition by proposing a friendly beer session, which tacitly suggests that political engagement can be made more approachable through casual conversations over drinks. Harris, reflecting on her choice of beverage, confirmed that she requested Miller High Life, humorously referencing her last beer experience at a baseball game with her husband, Doug Emhoff.
As they toasted with their cans of Miller High Life, Harris emphasized the brand’s tagline, dubbing it “the champagne of beers,” which elicited laughter and created a relaxed atmosphere. This iconic beer choice holds particular significance, being brewed in Wisconsin—a state pivotal to the upcoming presidential election. The choice of beer symbolically connects her to voters in one of the critical swing states, suggesting an awareness of the electoral landscape. Colbert adeptly shifted the conversation towards other pivotal states, specifically Pennsylvania, playfully probing Harris about her National Football League (NFL) allegiance by asking her to choose between the Philadelphia Eagles and Pittsburgh Steelers.
In an unexpected twist, Harris sidestepped the Pennsylvania football rivalry and claimed loyalty to the San Francisco 49ers—her original team, which elicited laughter from the audience. Her evasive maneuver highlighted her commitment to her personal loyalties rather than catering to political expectations, reinforcing the notion that public officials can navigate difficult questions with humor. Colbert’s cheeky response about courage in the presidency underscored the often precarious balance politicians must maintain between personal authenticity and public opinion.
In stark contrast to the light-hearted banter on stage, the reality for many Americans remains troubling, especially as they face rising inflation. Under the presidency of Joe Biden, with Harris in the vice-presidential role, Americans have been hit by a 16 percent increase in beer prices compared to the rates during Donald Trump’s administration. This inflation surge has broader implications, permeating many aspects of everyday life and straining household budgets, particularly for leisure activities traditionally associated with summer gatherings such as barbecues.
The environment during this year’s Labor Day weekend was notably impacted by economic factors, leading many to feel less joy about their celebrations. With beer and other barbecue essentials becoming significantly more expensive, Americans found themselves confronted by the persistent consequences of inflation while trying to enjoy their holiday. The juxtaposition of Harris’s jovial beer-drinking moment against the backdrop of economic hardship serves as a stark reminder of the disconnection that may exist between political narratives and the lived experiences of ordinary citizens.
Coverage of the event has sparked discussions about the role of politicians in alleviating economic strain and resonating genuinely with the public. While sharing a beer is a longstanding political strategy aimed at building rapport and presenting relatability, the overarching challenges of inflation and economic instability cast shadows over such lighthearted engagements. It raises critical questions about the efficacy of charm and casualness in addressing the real-world issues that Americans are grappling with today, ultimately framing a narrative where relatable moments alone may not suffice in achieving genuine political connection or electoral success.
