Which of the following would be most suitable for a speaker with a Southern drawl who is addressing an audience of New Yorkers?

Slowing down the speech rate is the most suitable approach for a speaker with a Southern drawl addressing an audience of New Yorkers. This technique is effective because it allows the audience ample time to process the speaker’s words, particularly when dealing with a regional accent that may require listeners to adjust their ears to unfamiliar pronunciations or cadences. Speaking more slowly enhances clarity and comprehension, enabling the audience to fully engage with the content of the speech.

In contrast, hiding the accent may come off as inauthentic or risk losing the speaker's unique voice, which can disconnect them from their audience. Increasing volume might not address the primary concern of clarity and could potentially distract from the speaker's message. While answering questions during the speech can be engaging, it doesn't specifically aid in overcoming the potential barriers posed by the accent. Therefore, slowing down the rate of speech is the most effective strategy to ensure effective communication.