![U.S. Congressman Byron Donalds chuckles while former President and Republican presidential candidate Donald Trump gives a keynote address at the Black Conservative Federation gala dinner on February 23, 2024. [Alyssa Pointer/Reuters]](https://blkpoliticsnow.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/DSADSA.png)
Oct 8, 2024 Story by: Editor
A recent poll by the AP-NORC Center for Public Affairs Research reveals that while most Black registered voters have a favorable view of Vice President Kamala Harris, many are unsure about her potential to bring significant change to the country. The survey, conducted in mid-September, showed that around 7 in 10 Black voters view Harris positively, with minimal differences between Black men and women, as well as younger and older voters.
Conversely, former President Donald Trump is viewed overwhelmingly negatively by Black voters, highlighting the challenge he faces in appealing to this critical Democratic constituency. According to the poll, two-thirds of Black voters identify as Democrats, 20% as independents, and roughly 10% as Republicans. Despite these clear partisan preferences, only half of Black voters believe Harris would make a significant positive impact on the country. About 30% felt she would improve things “somewhat,” while 20% were doubtful she would improve the situation at all. Similarly, only half of respondents felt the upcoming presidential election would have a major personal impact on their lives, a sentiment shared by many Americans.
Raina Johnson, a 53-year-old safety case manager from Chicago, expressed her skepticism. “The Democratic Party is not strong enough for me,” Johnson said, noting that Harris may try to advocate for the people but could face obstacles like former President Barack Obama. “The Republican Party shut him down,” she added.
When asked about key issues such as the economy, health care, and crime, Black voters consistently preferred Harris over Trump. About 8 in 10 Black voters ranked the economy as a top priority, and roughly three-quarters highlighted health care as a critical issue. Black voters also placed greater importance on gun policy and crime compared to the general electorate. On these issues, Harris led Trump by significant margins. For example, 60% of Black voters felt Harris would better handle the economy, compared to 20% who favored Trump. On abortion policy, Harris held a roughly 60-point lead over Trump.
Despite Trump’s ongoing outreach efforts to Black communities, including promoting his views on the economy, immigration, and traditional values, his campaign has yet to gain substantial traction. Rod Wettlin, a retired Air Force veteran from Arizona, voiced his strong opposition to Trump, emphasizing the importance of this election for American democracy. “What’s going on now is the culmination of a lot of stuff that’s been in our face for years,” Wettlin said, expressing concerns about potential unrest following the election. “Hopefully after the election it is civil, but these cats out here are already calling for bedlam.”
Black women and older voters were more likely to view Harris as someone who would “fight for people like you,” whereas Black men and younger voters were somewhat less enthusiastic.
Black voters continue to view Trump negatively, with around 80% holding unfavorable opinions of him. Only 15% had a favorable view of Trump, and just 10% believed Trump would improve the country or fight for them. “I think we’re headed in the right direction if Kamala Harris gets it,” said Roslyn Coble, a 63-year-old from Oakboro, North Carolina. “But if Donald Trump gets it, it’s going to be bad. He already told us what he’s going to do. He’s going to be a dictator.”
Around 7 in 10 Black voters said Trump’s campaign is characterized by dishonesty, agreeing with the statement that Trump “will say anything to win the election.”
Interestingly, the race has also seen a shift in perceptions of President Joe Biden. Following his withdrawal from the Democratic candidacy, only 55% of Black men had a favorable view of him, compared to 70% of Black women. “He did his best,” Wettlin remarked, adding that Biden should have stepped aside sooner.
Both the Harris and Trump campaigns continue to engage Black voters. Trump’s team has increased efforts by hosting community events in cities such as Philadelphia, Detroit, and Milwaukee, along with a “Black Voices for Trump” bus tour. Meanwhile, Harris’ campaign has hosted events aimed at Black voters, particularly men, and has utilized high-profile surrogates, including lawmakers and celebrities, to appeal to Black communities. Source: AP News
