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Growing Enthusiasm
In early summer 2024, the KFF Survey of Women Voters revealed a lack of enthusiasm among women regarding the upcoming presidential election. However, after three months and a shift in the Democratic Party’s leadership, sentiment has changed dramatically. Today, 64% of women voters express increased motivation to vote compared to previous elections. Although feelings of anxiety and frustration persist, many now report being hopeful and enthusiastic—marking a significant shift in perspective.
Increased Satisfaction with Candidates
Satisfaction among women voters has surged, with two-thirds stating they are “very satisfied” or “somewhat satisfied” with their presidential options, up from just 40% in June. In June, only a majority of Republican women (54%) and women aged 65 and older (52%) expressed satisfaction. Now, women across all demographics report satisfaction, with nearly a 40-point increase among Democratic women. Conversely, satisfaction among Republican women has declined slightly, with only 52% expressing contentment with their choices.
Rising Motivation Across Demographics
The share of women voters who feel “more motivated” to vote has risen significantly, climbing 19 points to 64% in September. Democratic women show the most significant increase, with motivation rising 26 points. Meanwhile, Republican women’s motivation has increased from 53% to 61%.
Notably, Black women voters have seen a marked increase in motivation, with nearly 60% now stating they feel more inspired to vote, compared to just 37% in June. Women across all age groups express heightened motivation as well.
Impact of Vice President Harris’s Nomination
A pivotal factor behind this increase in motivation is the nomination of Vice President Harris as the Democratic candidate. Over half of the voters (51%) report that her candidacy makes them feel more motivated to vote. This sentiment is especially pronounced among Black women and those who prioritize abortion rights, with nearly 60% of these groups feeling energized by Harris’s nomination.
Democratic women are particularly vocal about their motivations, stating that Harris is a stronger candidate and offers a better chance against former President Trump. Responses include:
- “She seems like a competent candidate closer to my age group.” – Hispanic Democratic woman, California, age 37.
- “I feel the Democrats have a better chance with Harris as the candidate.” – White Democratic woman, New Hampshire, age 64.
Interestingly, nearly half (46%) of Republican women also report increased motivation to vote, largely driven by a desire to prevent Harris from winning.
Mixed Emotions Among Women Voters
While motivation has increased, anxiety and frustration remain high. Around 65% of women voters still feel frustrated, and 77% feel anxious about the election. However, hope has grown, with 69% expressing feelings of hope compared to 53% in June. Nearly half (47%) now feel enthusiastic, a notable rise from one-third earlier in the summer.
Democratic women now report higher levels of hope and enthusiasm than their Republican counterparts, indicating a shift in the emotional landscape among voters.
The Drive for Change
Many women voters are motivated not only by party loyalty but also by the historical significance of having a female candidate. Approximately 7% express motivation to support Harris simply because she represents the possibility of the first woman president. While a majority believe Harris’s gender does not affect her candidacy, about one-third feel it enhances her appeal.
Most women voters’ choices remain unchanged following Harris’s nomination, with 98% of those who initially planned to vote for Biden still supporting Harris. Furthermore, a small percentage of those initially leaning towards Trump have shifted their allegiance to Harris, indicating a potential change in the election landscape.
Reasons Behind Vote Choices
Supporters of Harris cite her qualities and stances as reasons for their choice:
- “She genuinely cares about people and will make the USA a better place.” – White independent woman, Pennsylvania, age 56.
- “Her leadership skills and stances on key issues resonate with me.” – Hispanic Democratic woman, California, age 33.
Conversely, Trump supporters often emphasize his previous experience and economic policies, expressing belief in his capabilities despite personal misgivings.
Responses from Trump supporters include:
- “He understands relationships and the economy.” – White Republican woman, Oregon, age 33.
- “His policies align more with my values of small government and lower taxes.” – White Republican woman, Missouri, age 45.