Words Matter: Appraisal Theory in Action During the 2024 Harris-Trump Presidential Debate

Abstract

This study applies Appraisal theory, a component of Systemic Functional Linguistics (SFL), to analyze the evaluative language used by Kamala Harris and Donald Trump in the 2024 U.S. presidential debate. The research focuses on three key subsystems of Appraisal theory i.e., attitude, engagement, and graduation to explore how both candidates express emotions, engage with opposing views, and amplify their positions. A qualitative approach was employed, analyzing the debate transcript in terms of evaluative patterns. The findings reveal contrasting communication strategies: Harris frequently used affect and judgment to convey empathy and moral responsibility, while Trump amplified his judgments to criticize opponents and institutions. These evaluative strategies reflect broader ideological divides and highlight the emotional and rhetorical tools politicians use to influence public perception. The study contributes to the understanding of political discourse in a polarized context, offering insights into the dynamics of contemporary U.S. political rhetoric.