Harris's Identity Could Be Key to Electoral Success, Poll Suggests

In a recent development, a poll conducted by Fairleigh Dickinson University has shed light on the potential impact of Kamala Harris's unique identity on her electoral prospects. The study, released on August 23, 2024, suggests that highlighting the Vice President's gender and racial background could prove advantageous as the presidential election approaches.

The poll employed an innovative approach, dividing respondents into three groups. One group was presented with policy-centered issues, another had race or ethnicity added to the mix, and the third considered gender as a factor. The results were striking: Harris held a seven-point lead overall, but this advantage varied significantly depending on the priming.

Among respondents not primed with race or gender questions, Harris and former president Donald Trump were virtually tied. However, when gender was introduced as an issue, Harris gained a 10-point advantage. Even more notably, when race was presented as a factor, her lead expanded to 14 points.

The poll also revealed interesting patterns based on gender and self-perceived masculinity. Women who were primed with the gender issue showed a 26-point preference for Harris, compared to a 16-point advantage among unprimed women. Notably, men who didn't identify as "completely masculine" favored Harris by 20 points, while those who did strongly supported Trump.

These findings come in the context of Harris's historic candidacy. As the first woman, first Black person, and first person of South Asian descent to be elected Vice President of the United States, Harris brings a unique perspective to the presidential race. Born in Oakland, California, to a Tamil Indian mother and a Jamaican father, she has broken numerous barriers throughout her career.

"My mother would look at me and she'd say, 'Kamala, you may be the first to do many things, but make sure you're not the last.'"

Harris's journey to the presidential nomination has been marked by significant achievements. Before becoming Vice President, she served as a United States Senator from California and as the state's Attorney General. Her experience as a prosecutor and her advocacy for criminal justice reform have been central to her political career.

The poll's results suggest that Harris's campaign might benefit from embracing her identity more explicitly. This strategy contrasts with her acceptance speech for the Democratic nomination, where she made no overt mentions of the historic nature of her candidacy.

As the election approaches, it remains to be seen how the campaigns will navigate these identity issues. The Fairleigh Dickinson poll offers valuable insights into voter preferences and the potential impact of highlighting Harris's unique background. With Election Day on the horizon, these findings could shape campaign strategies in the coming months.