WASHINGTON (NEXSTAR) — National polling shows men and women may be more split than ever when it comes to who they’re backing this presidential cycle. According to a Marist poll conducted last week, 57% of women support Vice President Kamala Harris but former President Donald Trump has an edge with men, 53% want him back in the Oval Office.
George Washington Professor Elisabeth Anker says the trend is not new, she says since the “Me Too” movement and especially after the overturning of Roe v. Wade an increasing number of women are drawn to the Democrats’ agenda.
At the same time, she says young men are increasingly leaning into conservative messages around masculinity.
“Perhaps because they are entering into an economy whereas they won’t be able to succeed in the way that prior generations have,” says Anker.
Former Detroit Mayor Kwame Kilpatrick says men like Trump’s strength.
“You’re going to appreciate him for just saying it like it is and that’s how men think,” says Kilpatrick.
Three weeks out from the election, VP Harris kicked off the week with an attempt to bridge the gender gap.
In Detroit she highlighted her plans for an “opportunity economy,” which includes small business loans and down payment assistance for first time home buyers.
“We are a nation of people who have dreams and ambitions, and we need to tap in that,” says VP Harris.
Trump, meanwhile, participated in a Fox televised townhall with women voters. He answered their questions about childcare costs, transgender athletes, and reproductive rights.
Trump told the audience he is the “father of IVF” and wants fertilization “all the way.”
Anker says she doubts Trump’s effort will move the needle with women.
“They’ve been hearing so many stories about women who have been harmed from getting the abortion and reproductive care they need,” says Anker.
She expects both candidates to zero in on young men, a demographic historically difficult to get to the polls.
