Please excuse the ignorance of a non-USA.
In all other USA elections, I’ve noticed that the candidates are referred to by their last names. Harris, however, is referred to as Kamala by both the opposing party (which make sense, if the idea was to disrespect) as well as by her own party (which confounds me). Why is Harris different?
Am I the one being disrespectful by referring to her by her last name (am I the one in the wrong)? If so, I’ll start (kind of late, I’m gathering) referring to her by her first name.
It’s been bothering me each time I see something about “Trump vs. Kamala”. I finally broke down and asked.
Edit: thanks everyone! I’m glad I wasn’t offensive :) and your explanations make sense. I will continue to use last names, since I find it more respectful, (but still don’t hold first name usage against anyone who chooses to haha) until asked otherwise.
For campaiging, Republicans went with last name for the same reason the Trump organization just goes by his last name, which is the common use of last names in military, sports, and business settings. Dems tried to go personable with a first name, like they have in the past with Hillary & Bernie. Obama went by last name for the same reason as Trump, manly projection while Biden tends to favor Joe to be personable.
Basically strong person vs personable person branding.