Podcasts have been steadily increasing in popularity for the past two decades, but this year, they seem to have become a central part of the race for the next President of the United States

In previous cycles, rallies and in-person events have been key to candidates’ success, and while they’re still turning to those traditional methods to draw voters, they’re also taking to the digital airwaves to engage a new and different base.

Vice President Kamala Harris and former President Donald Trump have both appeared on various podcasts to talk about their platform, appeal to their base and try to sway undecided voters.

Their goal seems to be to reach an audience of people who wouldn’t normally pay attention to politics, including Gen Z or Millennials.

The strategy seems to be working, with young voters in Tucson telling Tucson Spotlight that they’ve tuned into some of the episodes and have had a chance to better understand the candidates’ character and personality. 

Harris made headlines after her appearance in early October on the popular podcast "Call Her Daddy," hosted by Alex Cooper, formerly of Barstool Sports. The duo discussed Harris’ vision for women's rights, the importance of reproductive health, and plans to address economic inequality.

The conversation centered around issues of key interest to  younger voters and women, with Cooper saying that Trump declined her interview requests.

“I thought it was really cool that Harris was on a podcast that I watch regularly,” said University of Arizona student Natalie Golwas of Harris’ appearance on “Call Her Daddy.” “I enjoyed their conversation but I did think that she should have thought twice before going on something with that name.”

UA student, Krissy Turman, had a different opinion about Harris’ appearance and took issue with the timing.

“I thought it was bad timing to go on such a progressive podcast talking about women's reproductive rights while there are bodies on the other side of this country that are being pulled out of trees from the hurricanes,” Turman said. “(She) talked about all of these things that have nothing to do with struggling Americans.”

Harris also appeared on Howard Stern’s podcast, during which they discussed her time as California Attorney General, Vice President and why she chose Tim Walz as her running mate. The episode netted nearly 2 million views.

Stern, who said he supports Harris, expressed dismay over her portrayal on the popular late night comedy show Saturday Night Live.

“I don’t want you to get made fun of,” he said.

Harris tried to assuage his concerns, telling him she found comic Maya Rudolph’s portrayal of her on the show to be comical.

Trump also declined the invitation to go on Stern’s podcast.

She’s also appeared on popular podcasts including 60 Minutes, Brenè Brown, retired NFL player Shannon Sharpe’s Club Shay Shay and The Breakfast Club, which features interviews with women leaders.

Trump has had his own podcast campaign run, including a recent appearance on the "Full Send,” hosted by the Nelk Boys, a Canadian-American company originally known for prank videos. In recent years, the channel has shifted to promoting right-wing political causes.

Trump talked about his views on the economy, immigration and his criticisms of the current administration, with the group bringing up Ultimate Fighting Championship CEO Dana White and his endorsements for Trump.

It’s unclear if the Nelk Boys extended an invitation to Harris to appear on their podcast. 

Comedian Joe Rogan also hosted Trump on his podcast, which seemed to be a shock to some viewers, given that the pair had previously publicly expressed their distaste for one another.

But the conversation between the two was productive and congenial, and has netted more than 40 million views. Rogan later said on social media that an interview with Harris had been in the works, but ultimately fell through due to scheduling conflicts.

Trump has also been a guest on popular podcasts including Impaulsive with influencer Logan Paul, This Past Weekend with comedian Theo Von, and the Dan Bongino Show, hosted by the former Fox News host of the same name. 

“That should speak to his character,” said UA student Turman.

Abbie Andrus is a journalism major at the University of Arizona and Tucson Spotlight intern. Contact her at asandrus@arizona.edu.

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