Kamala Harris Fights Unpopularity as Confidence in Biden’s Health Wavers

February 09, 2024 Kamala Harris Fights Unpopularity as Confidence in Biden’s Health Wavers image

Key Takeaways

  • As questions of Biden's cognitive health loom, VP Kamala Harris still faces unpopularity within her own party.
  • In the last 30 days, Harris has shown an average approval of 46% compared to Biden’s 49%.
  • Several voters indicate a concern about the potential for Harris to become President, either through the 25th amendment or in the event of the impeachment of President Biden.

Our Methodology

Demographics

All Voters

Sample Size

15,000

Geographical Breakdown

National

Time Period

30 Days

MIG Reports leverages EyesOver technology, employing Advanced AI for precise analysis. This ensures unparalleled precision, setting a new standard. Find out more about the unique data pull for this article.
 

Although many Democrats online express support for the Biden administration, the party as a whole, and include VP Harris, there is question about whether she alone could maintain even Biden’s decreasing levels of confidence among the American people.

Comparing Harris to other politicians in her party, MIG data suggests that her popularity is lower than President Biden's, even among Democrats.

  • In the last 30 days, Harris has shown an average approval of 46% compared to Biden’s 49%.
  • Harris’ 30-day low of 42% trails 6 points behind Biden’s low of 48% and only rose above Biden once on February 5.

How Democrats Talk about VP Harris

Although both receive criticism, it appears more focused on Harris, with more negative remarks directed at her.

  • Some conversations imply that she is seen as an insurance policy against impeachment for President Biden, rather than providing value on her own merits.
  • Democrats generally show support for Harris, praising her accomplishments and expressing hope for her future success, but mostly lauding her as a symbol of representation.
  • She is celebrated by many Democrats for her historic role as the first female Vice President.
  • Democrats do express concern over her performance, suggesting that the administration needs to find better ways to communicate its achievements to the public.
  • Many defend Harris and Biden against criticism and reaffirm their intention to vote for the Democratic party in future elections, regardless of current sentiment.
  • This position is expressed along with frustration at her performance and suggestions she is less popular than some of her Democratic counterparts.

Praise and Criticism for Kamala Harris

There are some positives which Harris supporters point out.

  • The VP is celebrated for her involvement in initiatives like Transit Equity Day.
  • It's clear that her identity as the first woman, first Black woman, and first Asian American woman to be Vice President is a source of pride.
  • People often praise her experience as a former senator and attorney general of California.
  • Her support for progressive policies such as climate change, equality, and healthcare is greatly appreciated within the party.
  • While she has a strong base of support among Democrats, she is also the subject of intense criticism.
  • Many view Harris as less experienced and more ideologically driven than Biden.
  • Some Democrats express concerns about her past record as a prosecutor in California and her handling of key assignments.
  • She has also received criticism for her performance and inaction as Border Czar.
  • Many in her own party expressed dissatisfaction at her management of the border, with some going as far as to call for her impeachment.
  • There are complaints about perceived lack of visibility and effectiveness in her role, and concerns about low approval ratings as the 2024 election nears.
  • There is worry that her past stances on criminal justice issues could alienate progressive voters and harm the party's chances in future elections.
  • There is a sense of disappointment among some Democrats due to perceived underperformance and lack of tangible action.
  • A primary concern among Democrats is a perceived lack of transparency and accountability.
  • Many criticize what they perceive as her inability to effectively communicate and defend the administration's policies.
  • Another complaint is her perceived lack of visibility regarding major policy issues.
  • Some argue she has not been proactive in advancing the Biden administration's policy agenda and worry that she may not be prepared to assume the presidency if needed.
  • Several voters indicate a concern about the potential for Harris to become President, either through the 25th amendment or in the event of the impeachment of President Biden.

Comparatively, Harris seems to be less popular than many politicians within her own party. This perception is driven by her low approval ratings.

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