This year’s presidential election in the United States, between the Democrat Kamala Harris and the Republican Donald Trump, could mark a historic milestone in terms of the gender gap, with a level of polarization between men and women not seen since the 1980s.
According to a USA TODAY/Suffolk University survey, women decisively favor Harris, with 53% against 36% for Trump. However, in the case of men, it is almost the exact opposite in favor of the Republican: 53% versus 37%. If these margins hold until election day, it would be the largest disparity since a gender gap emerged over four decades ago in 1980.
The topic of gender becomes key in the presidential elections
The first of these factors is the possibility of a woman, Kamala Harris, becoming president. This candidacy has generated an increase in interest and mobilization among female voters, many of whom see Harris as a figure who represents their interests and struggles.
The second factor is the debate on abortion, a topic that has gained unprecedented relevance following the recent decision of the Supreme Court to restrict reproductive rights at the federal level. For many women, this issue has become a deciding factor when choosing a candidate, and polls reflect that this interest could translate into high female voter turnout.
Abortion has also become the most complicated issue for Donald Trump.
On the other hand, to reinforce his strength among men, including minorities such as African Americans and Latinos, Trump has focused on a message of hypermasculinity, including references and praises for the size of Arnold Palmer's male member, one of the most famous golfers in history.
This includes the appearance on Joe Rogan's podcast, for which the Republican candidate left hundreds of supporters waiting in the cold in Michigan.
Women can play a key role
In states like North Carolina and Wisconsin, Harris' advantage among women is wide enough to overcome men's inclination towards Trump, which could define the outcome in those states.
This phenomenon not only highlights the importance of the gender gap in voting, but also how the female vote could be decisive in determining who will occupy the White House. Gender has become a determining factor in this electoral race, and the final result is likely to be a direct reflection of this.
That's why also, Barack Obama's messages and appearances have been openly focused on getting African American men to vote for Kamala Harris.