Summary
Americans’ perceptions of gender in presidential elections have notably shifted, with a growing number believing that Kamala Harris’ gender could negatively impact her chances in the upcoming election compared to the views held during Hillary Clinton’s candidacy in 2016. A recent AP-NORC poll reveals that this sentiment is particularly pronounced among Democratic voters, indicating a change in attitudes towards female candidates over the past eight years.
The poll highlights that approximately half of Democratic men now perceive Harris’ gender as a significant hurdle, a marked increase from the 30% who felt the same about Clinton. Democratic women also exhibit increased concern, with 40% believing Clinton’s gender hindered her, while this figure has risen to nearly 50% for Harris. Conversely, the perception that Donald Trump’s gender will aid his candidacy has also grown, with 40% of Americans now viewing his male identity as advantageous, up from 30% in 2016. This evolving landscape underscores the complexities of gender dynamics in contemporary politics, as both candidates navigate their campaigns with differing strategies related to gender and identity.
Gender Perception Among Voters
The poll indicates that only about one-quarter of Americans believe Harris’ gender won’t affect her election chances, a decline from one-third for Clinton in 2016. This suggests a lingering skepticism about the viability of female candidates in high-stakes political contests. The findings also reflect a broader societal discourse on gender roles and expectations, particularly in the context of leadership positions.
Candidate Strategies
Harris appears to be adopting a different approach compared to Clinton, focusing less on her gender as a historical milestone and more on substantive issues like reproductive rights. Meanwhile, Trump has amplified his masculine image, appealing to male voters while presenting himself as a “protector” of women. This strategic divergence may influence voter perceptions and highlight the ongoing challenges faced by female candidates in overcoming ingrained biases in a male-dominated political arena.
Implications for Future Elections
As the election approaches, the implications of these shifting perceptions are significant for both candidates. Clinton expresses optimism that the electorate has become more accustomed to female candidates since her run, suggesting a potential shift in the political landscape. However, the persistent concerns about gender bias indicate that female candidates like Harris may still face considerable obstacles as they seek to break through historical barriers in presidential politics.
Americans are more likely to see Harris' gender as a hurdle than they were for Clinton: AP-NORC poll
Sep. 26 / Gazette “ WASHINGTON (AP) — Americans are more likely to believe that being a woman will hurt Kamala Harris ' chances in the November election, compared to eight years...
Americans are more likely to see Harris’ gender as a hurdle than they were for Clinton: AP-NORC poll
Sep. 26 / The Seattle Times “ WASHINGTON (AP) — Americans are more likely to believe that being a woman will hurt Kamala Harris ‘ chances in the November election, compared to eight years...
Americans are more likely to see Harris’ gender as a hurdle than they were for Clinton: AP-NORC poll
Sep. 26 / The Seattle Times “ WASHINGTON (AP) — Americans are more likely to believe that being a woman will hurt Kamala Harris ‘ chances in the November election, compared to eight years...