Harris vs. Trump: First post-Biden ads show candidates' true colors

Kamala Harris and Donald Trump have released their first campaign ads since President Joe Biden withdrew from the 2024 election and endorsed Harris as the Democratic nominee. Just looking at the two ads is all it takes to understand who these candidates are and what their campaigns are all about.

In fact, even for someone who doesn’t speak a word of English, the point of the ads are clear. The Harris ad is set to music that is serious but upbeat and inspiring. It’s filled with images of the candidate not just giving speeches but interacting with people in a way that shows empathy and support.

The Trump ad is a visual nightmare, full of sharp cuts, repeating images, jump-scare sound effects, an announcer using a  tone of deep disgust, and a musical score that implies death is never more than inches away. It’s 100% an attack ad from beginning to end with a scowling Trump appearing only to give his approval.

Mostly, the Trump ad just seems tired. And old. Really old.