Tulsi Gabbard Backs Trumps, Boosts the Unity Coalition
August 31, 2024.png)
Key Takeaways
- Tulsi Gabbard’s Trump endorsement is stirring excitement, concern, and anger among certain voter groups.
- Trump supporters and some Independents are excited about the new coalition of Trump, Gabbard, and Robert F. Kennedy, Jr.
- Democrats, some establishment Republicans, and some Independents range from cautious and skeptical to outright opposed, signaling fear of the emergent coalition.
Our Methodology
Demographics
All Voters
Sample Size
12,000
Geographical Breakdown
National
Time Period
1 Day
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.
Former Democratic congresswoman Tulsi Gabbard recently endorsed Donald Trump for president, sparking significant discussion among voters. This came as a surprise to many but built on the notable shift in mood days after Robert F. Kennedy Jr. also endorsed Trump.
Gabbard, a former congresswoman from Hawaii and 2020 presidential Democratic candidate, triggered a wave of reactions. In her speech, she touched on her shift away from the Democratic Party. She emphasized Trump's approach to foreign policy, particularly his stance on avoiding new wars, contrasting it with Biden-Harris tendencies towards conflict.
She also associated Trump with values of prosperity and freedom, suggesting his policies foster economic growth and protect individual liberties. She criticized Kamala Harris and the Democratic Party, echoing Kennedy’s statement that the Democratic Party has lost its way, moving toward tyranny and authoritarianism.
I was a Democrat for over 20 years. Today, I endorsed Donald Trump for President. WATCH to hear why: pic.twitter.com/lwA8FYFx8h
— Tulsi Gabbard 🌺 (@TulsiGabbard) August 26, 2024
The endorsement was also a call to action for all Americans, regardless of party affiliation, to support Trump if they value peace, prosperity, and freedom. This, and her subsequent appointment to Trump's transition team, signifies a strategic move to unite diverse political factions against the Democratic Party's interventionist policies and economic tyranny.
MIG Reports analysis of voter segment reactions shows:
- 59% of MAGA voters approve of Gabbard’s endorsement
- 27% of establishment Republicans are concerned or skeptical
- 55% of progressive Democrats feel negatively
- 35% of moderate Democrats are confused or concerned
Independents are split:
- 38% positive or supportive
- 40% negative or opposed
- 20% ambivalent or curious
.png)
.png)
Independents are Divided
The Independent voter group presents the most varied responses to Gabbard’s endorsement. With 37.5% of Independents showing support and 40% expressing opposition, this group is notably split. Still another group is ambivalent, indicating a blend of curiosity and skepticism.
For Independents, Gabbard’s endorsement may symbolize an opportunity to break free from strict party loyalties. However, it also raises questions about the implications of a cross-party alliance. Recent criticisms toward Democrats from figures like Kennedy and Gabbard may speak to this group who acknowledge the major parties’ weaknesses.
Moderate Democrats are Cautious
While most moderate Democrats still disapprove of a Trump coalition, some show a nuanced reaction. With 35% expressing confusion or concern, this group appears to be grappling with the implications of Gabbard’s shift. Unlike their progressive counterparts, moderate Democrats are more focused on the potential electoral impact.
This group may be more sensitive to recent party defections like RFK Jr., Senator Joe Manchin, and Gabbard herself. Their reactions reflect the internal struggle within the Democratic Party as it seeks to hold onto centrist figures while facing increasingly radical factions within.
.png)
MAGA Gives a Warm Welcome
Among MAGA supporters, Gabbard’s endorsement is met with enthusiasm. This group views her shift as a reinforcement of Trump’s broader appeal and a rejection of the traditional political establishment.
MIG Reports data shows around 59% of MAGA discussions express positive sentiment toward Gabbard’s endorsement. For these voters, Gabbard’s willingness to reach across the aisle is a unifying force that strengthens all "America First" voters who oppose establishment politics.
Pushing back against radical leftism resonates strongly with many groups of disaffected Republicans, Democrats, and Independents. MAGA voters view the Trump tent as large enough to accommodate any reasonable American who wants to avoid radical leftism. Broadening the base with those who share disdain for the establishment is seen as a win.
Establishment GOP is Skeptical
Establishment Republicans are reacting with more caution. For this faction, Gabbard’s endorsement raises concerns about the potential shift away from party lines and conservative values. Around 27% of the discussion among establishment Republicans reflect skepticism or concern regarding this new alliance.
These voters worry aligning with a former Democrat might alienate neocons and further fracture the party. Their cautious stance highlights the ongoing tension within the GOP as it grapples with the balance between populist momentum and maintaining the traditional ideological status quo.
Progressives Strongly Disapprove
Progressive Democrats are reacting with strong disapproval. Many view her decision as a betrayal of core Democratic values, particularly given their view of Trump’s policies as divisive. On the left, 55% of the discussion expresses negative sentiments toward Gabbard.
This negativity underscores the deep divide within American politics and even among Democrats. Cross-party endorsements are often seen as capitulations rather than strategic moves. For progressives, Gabbard’s alignment with Trump symbolizes a dangerous shift toward far-right extremism, further polarizing the country.
Trump’s New Unity Coalition
.png)
The new coalition forming around Trump with support from politicians like Gabbard and RFK Jr. could have significant ramifications. For MAGA supporters, this alliance promises to energize the base and attract disaffected voters.
However, the skepticism among establishment Republicans and the outright hostility from progressive Democrats indicate this coalition may also aggravate deep partisans and the political establishment.
Some frame the political chasm in 2024 not as between parties, but between the American people and the political ruling class. There are also some expressing the emerging division as pro-America and middle-class versus pro-war and elite power.
Independents, particularly in swing states, will be crucial in determining the outcome of the election. Their divided response suggests this new alliance could appeal to anti-establishment voters or alienate those wary of extreme political shifts. Ultimately, the success of this coalition will depend on its ability to resonate with key voter groups.
_.png)
_.png)
_.png)
_.png)
_.png)
_.png)
.png)
.png)
.png)