As the 2024 presidential election draws near, it has become clear that most voters have already made up their minds. This means that campaigns might shift focus from persuasion to maximizing voter turnout.
Undecided voters in key swing states are showing some increased interest in Vice President Kamala Harris following recent debates. However, they still remain largely non-committal. For instance, NBC News conducted panels in Arizona and Pennsylvania, where voters previously disinterested in both candidates are now showing some inclination toward Harris.
These voters used words like “Manipulated,” “Lies,” and “Fluff” to describe their frustration with the debate, citing a lack of substantial policy discussions. Lynne Kelleher, a Republican, appreciated Harris slightly more after the debate but wasn’t fully convinced. Similarly, Jeff Herr, a “McCain Republican,” criticized Trump’s handling of the Jan. 6 Capitol riot but appreciated Harris’s debate decorum.
Corrie Zech, an undecided voter from Arizona who hosted a debate watch party, had previously voted for Trump in 2016 and Biden in 2020. While Corrie is leaning towards Trump, she remains undecided, calling for more detailed policy discussions, especially on education and healthcare.
It’s evident that the number of undecided voters is dwindling, estimated to be between 5% and 10% of the electorate. This small but crucial group could decide the outcome in swing states. Focus groups have highlighted that many of these swing voters need more information, particularly about Harris’s economic plans. Some, like Jennifer from Wisconsin, are against Trump but feel they don’t know enough about Harris.
Attempts to sway these voters lean on the candidates’ ability to provide clear and detailed policy outlines. Harris seems to be gaining ground among a segment of this group, but her support is still far from guaranteed. The race remains highly polarized, with loyalty playing a larger role than ever before. The clock is ticking, and the campaigns’ focus must now be on getting every single supporter to the polls.
Ultimately, both Harris and Trump understand that mobilizing their respective bases will be critical. With each passing day, the final votes that may decide the 2024 election are inching closer to being cast. The effect of the debates and future campaign strategies will reveal themselves come Election Day.
