Politics
Sep 22, 2024
Vice President Kamala Harris addresses a crowd of supporters during a campaign rally, highlighting her growing momentum in the 2024 presidential race. Photo by: Alex Turner
As the 2024 presidential race intensifies, Vice President Kamala Harris is rapidly gaining momentum, particularly among minority voters, signaling a potential shift in the electoral landscape. With President Biden stepping back, Harris has emerged as the Democratic frontrunner, challenging former President Donald Trump in what is shaping up to be one of the most closely watched elections in recent history.
Harris' Rise in Polls
Recent polls show that Harris is outperforming Biden's earlier numbers, particularly among key demographic groups. Among Black voters, Harris commands 77% support, a significant increase from Biden's 64% just weeks ago. This surge in support is also evident among Hispanic and Asian voters, where Harris has widened her lead over Trump. Hispanic voters now favor Harris by a 17-point margin, and Asian voters support her over Trump by more than two to one. This growing support is crucial as the Democratic Party seeks to maintain and expand its base in a diverse and changing America.
A Stronger Campaign Than Expected
Harris' campaign is not only drawing in more voters but also inspiring stronger support among them. In July, only 43% of Biden's supporters characterized their backing as "strong." Today, 62% of Harris’ supporters say the same, matching the intensity of Trump’s base. This increase in voter enthusiasm could be a decisive factor in November, particularly as the race tightens and every vote counts.
Challenges Ahead
Despite her gains, Harris faces a formidable opponent in Trump, who continues to hold significant sway among White voters and older demographics. While Harris has managed to close the gap slightly, with 41% of White voters now supporting her compared to Trump’s 52%, she will need to maintain this momentum to secure a victory.
The road to the White House will not be easy, but Harris' campaign has shown remarkable resilience and adaptability. As the election draws closer, her ability to energize and expand her base could very well determine the outcome of the 2024 race.