In Rocky Mount, North Carolina, Cherita Evans, also known as “Storm the Barber,” has observed an emerging concern within Vice President Harris’ campaign from her position at Head Changerz Barber Lounge and within her community. Evans noted a significant approval for Harris among her female relatives and friends, while expressing that many men she knows are uncertain, suggesting a hesitation among some men to support a female candidate.
Within her community, Evans pointed out that many men resist female leadership in various contexts, including church settings. This sentiment presents a challenge for the Harris campaign as it seeks to increase voter engagement in crucial states where early voting has commenced. Recent polls indicate that former President Donald Trump appears to be gaining traction with Black male voters, while some Black men may abstain from voting.
To address these challenges, Vice President Harris is scheduled to engage with voters through a town hall conversation, moderated by well-known Black radio host Charlamagne tha God, who is noted for his candid discussions with Democratic politicians.
Former President Barack Obama has also commented on the issue, identifying lower enthusiasm and turnout for Harris within Black communities compared to his own presidential campaigns, with a notable disparity among male voters. Obama speculated that this hesitance might be linked to discomfort with the prospect of a female president.
The Harris campaign is making concerted efforts to connect with Black male voters, by organizing events such as tailgate parties at historically Black colleges. Harris has also appeared on the “All the Smoke” podcast, discussing her identity, a subject she has generally avoided during her campaign.
Vice President Harris is currently visiting North Carolina, meeting with Black community leaders, attending a church service in Greenville, and participating in a rally. This region, with its significant Black population, is critical as voter turnout there has been low in recent years.
Reflecting on the situation back in May, Evans expressed dissatisfaction with both major candidates, stating a desire for more visibility from Harris. Despite viewing Harris as a superior candidate to President Biden, Evans feels Harris hasn’t adequately addressed key issues. High gas and grocery prices are of particular concern, and while Evans acknowledges Harris’ campaign ads discussing corporate price gouging, she remains skeptical about real solutions being implemented.
There is an apparent generational divide in voting preferences as reported by Christian Pounds, a college student who has since decided to participate in the upcoming election. He expressed relief following Biden’s campaign exit, citing Biden’s age as a concern, and recounted a family debate over voting choices, reflecting broader generational disagreements.
In the nearby town of Wilson, barber Mike Harris shares a desire for Harris to become the first female president, despite encountering varied opinions from clients and friends. He counters the skepticism about female leadership by drawing from his personal experiences, asserting that women are capable leaders based on his upbringing.
The story includes contributions from NPR’s Jason Fuller and Gus Contreras.
