Kamala Harris vs. Donald Trump: Leadership Styles and Their Impact on the Transgender Community in the Upcoming Election

As we approach the upcoming election, the leadership styles of Vice President Kamala Harris and former President Donald Trump provide a compelling contrast. The qualities of empathy, collaboration, and a commitment to social justice stand in stark relief against an authoritative, individualistic approach focused on economic nationalism. The leader who can best unify the country through bipartisanship, compassion, and economic stability is likely to emerge as the front-runner.

Empathetic Leadership vs. Authoritative Approach

Vice President Kamala Harris is known for her empathetic leadership, characterized by a deep understanding of and responsiveness to the needs and experiences of marginalized communities. Her policies and public engagements often emphasize listening and addressing the concerns of everyday Americans, such as her advocacy for criminal justice reform and maternal health initiatives.

In contrast, former President Trump’s leadership style was often authoritative and divisive, marked by assertive, top-down decision-making and a strong focus on projecting strength and decisiveness. This approach resonated with many of his supporters but also contributed to significant polarization within the country.

Collaborative Governance vs. Individualistic Style

Harris prioritizes collaborative governance, building coalitions and fostering inclusive environments where diverse perspectives are valued. Her leadership during the COVID-19 pandemic, involving close collaboration with public health experts and state leaders, exemplifies her commitment to working together for the common good.

On the other hand, Trump’s tenure was characterized by a more individualistic leadership style, marked by unilateral decision-making and a preference for strong, centralized control. While this approach led to significant policy shifts, it often did so at the expense of bipartisan support and broader consensus.

Commitment to Social Justice vs. Economic Nationalism

Harris' background as a former Attorney General and District Attorney informs her strong advocacy for social justice. She consistently works towards reforms that address both immediate needs and long-term structural changes, such as advancing the George Floyd Justice in Policing Act and supporting LGBTQ+ rights. Her leadership emphasizes equity and justice, aiming to create a more inclusive society.

Trump’s presidency, in contrast, was characterized by a focus on economic nationalism and deregulation. His policies aimed to boost economic growth and prioritize American interests, often without addressing systemic inequalities affecting marginalized communities. His leadership style prioritized economic metrics over social impacts, which sometimes exacerbated divisions within the country.

Qualities for the Upcoming Election

In the current socio-political climate, the leader who can unify the country will likely be the one who embodies bipartisanship, compassion, and economic stability. Both Harris and Trump bring different strengths to the table, and it is up to the American voters to decide which approach resonates more with their vision for the country's future.

• Bipartisanship: A leader who prioritizes coalition-building and inclusive policymaking can bridge the partisan divides that have grown in recent years.
• Compassion: Empathy and responsiveness to the needs of all Americans, particularly marginalized communities, are crucial for fostering a sense of unity and shared purpose.
• Economic Stability: Policies that promote equitable economic growth and address systemic inequalities will be key to ensuring long-term stability and prosperity for all.

Conscious-Driven Leadership and Trans Inclusion

As a conscious-driven leader, my approach is rooted in leading with love, empathy, and a deep commitment to inclusion. Leading with love means understanding and addressing the unique challenges faced by all individuals, particularly those in marginalized communities. This leadership style emphasizes the importance of empathy in decision-making, ensuring that policies and actions reflect the lived experiences of those they impact.

For the transgender community, empathetic leadership translates into tangible support and advocacy for their rights and well-being. It means pushing for inclusive policies that protect against discrimination, ensuring access to healthcare, and promoting visibility and understanding. In my work with the The Global Trans Equity Project (GTEP), we strive to create environments where transgender and non-binary individuals are recognized, respected, and provided with equal opportunities to thrive.

Impact on the Transgender Community

The contrasting leadership styles of Harris and Trump have profound implications for the transgender community. Harris' empathetic and collaborative approach offers hope for policies that support trans rights and inclusion, addressing systemic barriers and promoting equity. Her leadership could lead to advancements in healthcare access, anti-discrimination protections, and greater societal acceptance.

Conversely, the more authoritative and individualistic style seen in Trump's tenure often prioritized economic goals over social justice, potentially exacerbating the challenges faced by the transgender community. Policies under such leadership may not address the specific needs of marginalized groups, leading to increased vulnerabilities and reduced protections.

The upcoming election will likely favor a leader who can unify the country through a balanced approach of bipartisanship, compassion, and economic stability. As American voters, we face a crucial decision in choosing between the contrasting leadership styles of Vice President Kamala Harris and former President Donald Trump. The qualities of empathy, collaboration, and a commitment to social justice are essential for fostering unity and addressing the needs of all communities, including the transgender population.

Let's reflect on the qualities we believe are essential for our nation's leader and consider how these differences in leadership styles can impact our collective future. By prioritizing empathy and inclusion, we can work towards a more unified and equitable society.

In Service,

~ Dr. Elijah Nicholas, DBA, MBA, MAET, MSOL President and CEO, Dr. Elijah Nicholas, LLC and The Global Trans Equity Project (GTEP) - Advocate for Transgender and Non-Binary Health, Education, and Technology Equity #IAMDrElijahNicholas