Staff Reports
Biotech entrepreneur Vivek Ramaswamy has quickly gained popularity as a candidate in the 2024 Republican primary race, surpassing well-known politicians such as Sen. Tim Scott, former U.N. Ambassador Nikki Haley, and former Vice President Mike Pence in the polls. Ramaswamy’s success can be attributed to his understanding of the changing media landscape and his ability to connect with Republican voters. Unlike other candidates who rely heavily on paid media, Ramaswamy has focused on in-person events and building trust with primary voters.
The Ramaswamy campaign recognizes the skepticism among Republican voters towards traditional politicians, who are seen as part of the bipartisan establishment. They believe that Ramaswamy’s outsider status and straightforward nature, similar to that of Donald Trump, resonate with voters. His Indian American heritage also sets him apart from the rest of the field.
.@Columbia Political Science professor Robert Y. Shapiro explained that @VivekGRamaswamy offers an entertainment value and charisma similar to what former President Donald Trump brought to the table in 2016 — and made a hallmark of his presidency.https://t.co/7jDeXd2pRt
— Julia Johnson (@juliaajohnson_) August 22, 2023
Republican strategist John Feehery believes that Ramaswamy’s appeal lies in offering something different and refreshing to voters. He compares Ramaswamy’s outsider appeal to that of Trump in 2015 and 2016. However, some critics question Ramaswamy’s authenticity and suggest that he may be too closely aligned with the MAGA movement to appeal to a broader voter base.
Despite his rise in national polls, Ramaswamy has yet to see a significant boost in early state polling. Critics argue that his popularity may be limited to internet polls and the MAGA world. Nonetheless, Ramaswamy’s campaign remains confident in his messaging and ability to resonate with Republican voters.
Ramaswamy’s campaign strategy includes leveraging social media, particularly Instagram’s reels, to reach voters directly. He has also made frequent podcast appearances, allowing him to speak with a wide range of individuals and showcase his authenticity. While his media presence has faced some challenges in terms of coverage, Ramaswamy’s increasing popularity has forced the media, opponents, and voters to pay attention to his campaign.
As Ramaswamy prepares for the Republican National Committee debate, political experts believe he has the potential to make a significant impact. His strong opinions and policy proposals, along with the recent memo from Gov. Ron DeSantis’s super PAC, have further boosted his profile. With the absence of Donald Trump in the debate, Ramaswamy has an opportunity to reach new voters and solidify his position as a serious contender in the Republican primary race.
