Kentuckians expressed a range of concerns about the upcoming 2024 presidential election, including women’s health care, international conflicts, and economic issues. A survey revealed that many voters planned to support Vice President Kamala Harris, influenced by fears of Donald Trump’s potential return to office and the desire for protective leadership regarding individual and democratic rights.
In August, a survey was conducted among Kentuckians to gather their perspectives regarding the upcoming presidential election in 2024. A total of forty-one respondents from Louisville and across Kentucky expressed their thoughts and apprehensions as Election Day approaches. Among the participants, concerns were raised primarily surrounding women’s health care, abortion access, and reproductive rights, with thirteen individuals indicating these issues as significant. Jackson Davis, a resident of Louisville, articulated grave concerns following the overturning of Roe v. Wade, particularly regarding the dangers posed to pregnant women facing complications. “Women are dying from lack of care and just not getting what they need while they’re pregnant, [or] while they’re trying to end their pregnancy…and it’s not easy to watch people go through that kind of thing,” Davis remarked, drawing from personal experience related to a past family health crisis involving reproductive challenges. International conflicts also weighed heavily on the minds of voters. Fern Creek resident Steven Royalty indicated a likelihood of abstaining from voting unless strides towards a ceasefire in the ongoing Israel-Hamas conflict are made. “I am gladly voting on down-ballot candidates and amendments, but unlikely to support a presidential candidate unless something changes,” Royalty stated. This sentiment of withholding support echoed through the recent Democratic National Convention, where several Kentucky delegates voted uncommitted due to similar sentiments. Additionally, survey takers expressed their worries regarding inflation, the war in Ukraine, escalating health care costs, and the availability of affordable housing. Despite these concerns, approximately 90% of the respondents indicated intentions to cast their votes for Vice President Kamala Harris on November 5. The justification for this support varied widely. Whitney King from Jeffersontown expressed fears regarding the potential return of Donald Trump, stating, “I’m afraid that he will either do absolutely nothing or do something terrible.” Rick Harned, a resident of Highlands, noted that Harris possesses the necessary qualifications for leadership, emphasizing the need for a candidate who can unite the country and respect the law. Jackson Davis, who identifies as a nonbinary woman, articulated feelings of hostility towards the LGBTQ+ community in the United States, remarking, “I cannot do another Trump run as a queer woman with another queer woman in the state of Kentucky or even in the United States.” They underscored the belief that the Harris-Walz ticket would champion their rights. Among those voting for Harris, thirteen respondents cited restoring and preserving democracy as a primary motivation, expressing apprehension over the possibility of political unrest should Trump lose the election. “My biggest concern is that if Kamala Harris wins the election that Donald Trump and MAGA leaders in some states will try to refute the election results,” Joanie Prentice from Highlands asserted. This sentiment was echoed by President Joe Biden, who warned of potential upheaval following the election outcomes, stating, “I’m confident it will be free and fair. I don’t know whether it’ll be peaceful.” The vice presidential debate further raised questions regarding Trump’s acceptance of the electoral results, with his running mate, Senator JD Vance, sidestepping a direct response.
As the electoral landscape evolves in the lead-up to the 2024 presidential election, various issues have surfaced among voters in Kentucky, reflecting a broad scope of concerns ranging from social policies to international relations. The recent overturning of Roe v. Wade has notably intensified discussions surrounding women’s health and rights, causing unease among individuals whose lives may be affected by such policies. In addition to domestic issues, global conflicts, particularly the ongoing Israel-Hamas war, have prompted some voters to reconsider their support for presidential candidates. Economic factors, such as inflation and health care expenses, also play a crucial role in shaping voter attitudes. Candidates’ positions on these matters potentially influence voter decisions, making the outcome of the election highly contingent on these pressing issues.
The survey of Kentuckians reveals a multifaceted landscape of voter concerns as they approach the 2024 presidential election. Issues relating to women’s health, international conflict, and economic stability resonate strongly among respondents. Despite widespread apprehension concerning overall governance and political dynamics, a substantial majority demonstrates support for Vice President Kamala Harris, underscoring a desire for leadership that is perceived as protective of democracy and individual rights. With the election looming, the ability of candidates to address these key concerns will likely determine the electorate’s engagement and support.
Original Source: www.lpm.org
