Voters in the upcoming election are excited about the possibility of electing the first female president. Many are still upset about the loss of abortion rights and are concerned about the challenges Vice President Kamala Harris may face due to sexism.
The landscape for women’s rights has seen significant changes in the past eight years. More college-educated women are now in the workforce compared to men, the #MeToo movement has shed light on sexual harassment, and the Supreme Court has overturned the federal right to abortion. The question remains: will these changes make a difference for Vice President Harris?
With President Biden choosing not to seek re-election, it seems highly likely that Ms. Harris will be the Democratic nominee for president. However, she will have to navigate questions of electability similar to those faced by Hillary Clinton in the last election. The United States has yet to elect a woman as its leader, unlike many other countries around the world.
If Ms. Harris were to face off against former President Donald J. Trump, it would be a rematch of sorts. In 2016, Mr. Trump defeated Mrs. Clinton despite her winning the popular vote. However, the dynamics of a potential Harris-Trump contest would be different. Ms. Harris does not carry the same political history or baggage as Mrs. Clinton. Additionally, Mr. Trump’s time in office has made him a known figure, while Ms. Harris brings a fresh perspective as a Black woman of South Asian descent.
The current political climate has seen a rise in female anger, which could serve as a motivating factor in the election. Many women, like Karen Crowley from New Hampshire, are upset about the overturning of Roe v. Wade and view Mr. Trump’s actions and comments as sexist and misogynistic. The possibility of a woman president now seems more achievable to them.
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