Although the 2020 election had its own share of political tension, this year’s election carries lots of uncertainty due to Kamala Harris, a candidate that could make history if elected. Since the turbulent beginning of concerns over former President Biden’s cognitive abilities leading to him stepping out of the race, Kamala Harris was thrusted into the role of a presidential candidate in the ever-changing political scene.
During the events of the past couple of months, Harris’s image has been reshaped often throughout her growing campaign. Sarah Niebler, a Political Science professor at Dickinson, has said that “Over the last six weeks we got to see her more visually…because you know the Vice President is not as visible.” Harris’ method of presenting herself more visually throughout her campaign helped her gain more favor among the Democrats. Niebler said, “Democrats quickly went around Harris, so it was a seamless transition.”
Polls have shown high support from Democrats towards Harris since July. “Many Democrats have privately and even openly looked to Harris to step in and succeed Biden,” said AP News.
Both Harris and Biden maintain similar approval ratings, but due to Harris’s campaign allowing for more visibility, polls show positive results. AP News says, “the share of Americans who have an unfavorable opinion of her is somewhat lower…[many] don’t know enough to have an opinion of Harris, whereas nearly everyone has an opinion on Biden.”
When Biden’s cognitive abilities were put into question during his campaign, his approval ratings were affected among voters such as Ryan Bergh Thies ’25, president of the Dickinson College Democrats. Bergh Thies said, “Biden did poorly in the polls…and the issues he displayed…young people were concerned.” Bergh Thies goes on to explain the turn around Harris has created in the political scene once she entered the race stating “Kamala Harris has proven herself…she’s a clever politician, she knows how to win.”
Despite the tense political scene, Harris is a figure of success and hope for young voters. Niebler said, “younger democratic voters are more enthusiastic, absolutely.” She goes on to say that this election “would also be powerful for young voters.” While this election season is a cause for excitement, Harris is a symbol of hope for many with Bergh Thies saying “Harris embodies that light at the end of the tunnel.”
Bergh Thies went on to talk about the impact Harris has made compared to former President Biden, “an example is the war in Gaza … Harris finding the right footing on foreign policy … Biden seemed unable or unwilling … but Harris doubled down.”
As for Harris, she has become an impactful figure throughout her campaign for many staff and students that Bergh Thies says “will hopefully unite the country.” While the election nears, Harris has many of the Democrats hopeful for a successful election and young voters remain eager to vote in November.
