This research examines the intersection of gender, politics, and media framing, focusing on how news outlets shape public perceptions of leadership through the portrayals of Kamala Harris and Donald Trump. Media coverage is not simply a reflection of public opinion; it actively constructs narratives that reinforce or challenge societal norms. Harris, as the first female and first woman of color to serve as U.S. Vice President, is often represented through symbolic lenses—her clothing, demeanor, and identity framed as markers of progress but also subject to heightened scrutiny. This emphasis frequently overshadows her policy positions and achievements, illustrating a persistent double standard in political coverage. In contrast, Trump’s assertiveness, unconventional style, and controversies are often reframed as signs of strength and authority, aligning with traditional masculine ideals of leadership. Differences in interview questions, behavioral framing during debates, and media headlines further reveal how gendered assumptions influence political narratives and shape the public’s understanding of competence and authority.
The study underscores how these disparities perpetuate structural inequalities in political representation and leadership perception. Harris must navigate the dual pressure of proving competence while embodying symbolic representation, whereas Trump benefits from a performance-based framing that largely ignores personal presentation. By linking these findings to the Beijing Platform for Action’s Section J, which calls for non-stereotypical portrayals of women in the media, the research highlights the gap between international gender equality goals and current journalistic practices. It calls for more equitable coverage that avoids reinforcing outdated gender roles, encourages critical media literacy among audiences, and promotes accountability in news production. Ultimately, the work argues for a transformation of media narratives to ensure balanced, inclusive, and fair portrayals of all political leaders, fostering a more democratic and representative public sphere.
