Vice President Kamala Harris's campaign emphasized ideals of democracy and constitutional rights, contrasting them with what she described as Donald Trump’s “chaos and division.” However, the recent election results indicated that many voters prioritized practical concerns over abstract principles.
In the days leading up to the election, over 200 interviews revealed that voters, particularly in swing states, expressed worries about diminished economic prospects rather than threats to democracy. This sentiment aligned with pre-election polls indicating a majority believed the nation was on the wrong track, despite improvements in pandemic conditions and low crime and unemployment rates.
Voters like Mary Chastain, a retiree from Waleska, Georgia, voiced concerns about rising living costs, stating, “Everything has gone up.” Similarly, Idelle Halona from Phoenix noted significant increases in her rent and mortgage rates, reflecting widespread economic struggles among various demographics.
Trump’s campaign resonated with rural and working-class voters who felt overlooked by changing societal norms and economic shifts. His rhetoric evoked nostalgia for his presidency, highlighting achievements such as tax cuts and judicial appointments while promising further tax reductions across the board.
Despite his economic claims, Trump’s campaign was marred by controversial statements regarding the pandemic and aggressive rhetoric towards opponents and marginalized communities. Many voters acknowledged concerns about his character and behavior but still perceived him as the “lesser of two evils.”
Harris aimed to present a vision of a new leadership era, appealing to moderate voters by criticizing Trump’s divisiveness. However, her assurances of good governance did not sway many voters. In contrast, some, like Lele Pierce from Arizona, viewed Trump’s business background as an asset, reflecting a preference for practical experience over political ideals.
Harris’s late entry into the campaign, following President Biden’s withdrawal, limited her ability to connect with voters. While she attempted to address economic issues and propose solutions for housing and inflation, the ongoing inflation crisis and the impact of natural disasters overshadowed her agenda.
Voters expressed frustration over perceived disparities in government assistance, with some believing domestic needs should take precedence over foreign aid. Jacob Dettloff, who recently moved from North Carolina, emphasized the importance of addressing local needs before extending help abroad.