Donald Trump's Satirical Remarks toward Joe Biden and Kamala Harris during the 2024 Presidential Debates: A Critical Discourse Analysis (CDA)

Abstract

This study investigates the satirical remarks uttered by President Donald Trump towards former President Joe Biden and former Vice President Kamala Harris during the 2024 Presidential election utilizing Critical Discourse Analysis (CDA), applying Norman Fairclough’s three-dimensional model. The study addresses two essential questions: (1) What are the hidden implications of President Trump’s remarks toward former President Biden and former Vice President Harris? and (2) How do these remarks contribute to weakening the public image of Biden and Harris? A qualitative analysis of Trump's language reveals that satire played a crucial role in Trump’s discourse, with repeated mockery as a strategic instrument to undermine the political image of the opponents. The analysis shows how Trump’s satirical remarks shaped public views, effectively deteriorating the credibility of Biden and Harris as perceived by their advocates and potential voters. The study addresses the implications for future investigation, encouraging a more nuanced exploration of the linguistic strategies utilized by Biden and Harris as a counter to Trump's discourse. Future studies could benefit from incorporating alternative theoretical frameworks, such as Foucault’s views on discourse and power, to expand the comprehension of political language in presidential campaigns.