What technique does one candidate use to criticize their opponent?

The technique of an ad hominem attack involves directly criticizing or attacking the opponent's character or personal traits rather than addressing their arguments or policies. This method is often used in propaganda and persuasive discourse to undermine the opponent's credibility, distracting the audience from the actual issues at hand. By focusing on the individual instead of their ideas, the candidate aims to sway public opinion and create a negative image of the opponent, which can be effective in rallying support for their own campaign.

In the context of political debates or campaigning, using ad hominem attacks can be a strategic choice to capitalize on emotional responses rather than logical reasoning, which may resonate more powerfully with voters who are influenced by perceptions of personality instead of policy.