In the lead-up to the election, NPR revisited a group of 12 swing voters who previously expressed disapproval of both Joe Biden and Donald Trump in May. The aim was to assess their current stance with Kamala Harris as the nominee, as the election draws near.
Scott Detrow, host of the discussion, reminded listeners that back in May, NPR conducted focus groups with “double-haters”—voters discontented with both President Joe Biden and former President Donald Trump. These voters, estimated to comprise a significant portion of the electorate, were crucial in understanding the political landscape. With Biden stepping out of the race and Kamala Harris stepping in, these voters’ decisions were pivotal. NPR’s reporters Mara Liasson and Susan Davis shared their insights.
Susan Davis highlighted that voters who transitioned from Trump in 2016 to Biden in 2020 were essential in Biden’s previous victory. Collaborating with Rich Thau of Engagious and Sago market research, NPR identified a sample of these voters. Initially, there was a tendency to favor Biden, but more recently, preferences shifted towards Trump. Notably, just four people continued to disapprove of both candidates, with none supporting Harris.
Mara Liasson noted this shift was a significant concern for Harris’s campaign, indicating she was struggling to solidify support. She emphasized that while focus groups provide qualitative insights, they aren’t as comprehensive as polls. Despite more favorable perceptions of Harris, there’s little clarity about her policies or governance style. Even her supporters feel unsure about her political agenda.
In her report, Liasson described Eugene from Decatur, Georgia, who expressed enthusiasm for Harris, noting that she distinguishes herself by not being Trump. Meanwhile, Susan Davis addressed the complexity of voters’ opinions, acknowledging that some who didn’t vote for Trump in 2020 now consider supporting him despite concerns about his presidency and political views. The economy remains a deciding factor for some voters, like Kimberly from Arizona, who worry about economic stability under Harris.
Liasson further explored the disadvantages Harris faces, such as limited time to define her platform and respond to negative portrayals from the Trump campaign. These attacks have resonated with many voters, though some remain supportive, like Juanita from North Carolina, who, despite criticisms, intends to vote for Harris.
Susan Davis discussed how Harris’s decision to downplay her race and gender in the campaign didn’t significantly impact voters’ opinions. While some believe her gender could influence election outcomes, most did not perceive it as advantageous. Cherlyn from Michigan, a converted Democrat, noted societal biases against female presidential candidates.
As the election approaches, Mara Liasson observed that neither Harris nor Trump has secured a definitive lead. Voters remain divided, with lingering concerns about Trump’s perceived instability and Harris’s policy stance amid economic challenges like inflation.
In conclusion, the broadcast underscored the complexities facing swing voters, highlighting the challenges both candidates encounter in appealing to an electorate unconvinced by either side. NPR’s Mara Liasson and Susan Davis contributed their reporting to this evolving political narrative.
