On November 12th, an all-woman panel convened at American University to unpack the results of the 2024 elections at the event titled “What Just Happened?: Voting is over — What Did We Learn from Election 2024?” Moderated by Betsy Fischer Martin, Executive Director of the AU School of Public Affairs Women & Politics Institute, the discussion brought together prominent voices in politics and polling: Molly O’Rourke, Kristen Soltis Anderson, Cheyanne M. Daniels, and Amanda Hunter. Their analysis revealed key trends and takeaways from a uniquely static and revealing election cycle.
One of the most striking revelations came from O’Rourke, who noted the surprising growth of Trump’s coalition, particularly among diverse communities, including Hispanic voters and urban populations. This shift challenges the long-held narrative that Trump’s base is solely composed of white, non-college-educated voters. Daniels echoed this sentiment, sharing her observations that while Trump’s victory was not unexpected, the demographic shifts were indeed surprising. Notably, the turnout of Black men, who supported Harris, reflected a more nuanced electorate than many anticipated.
A key theme discussed by Hunter was the gender dynamics at play during the election. She highlighted that while many women expressed disapproval of Trump’s personality, it did not deter them from voting for him. This dichotomy reveals a complex relationship between candidate authenticity and personal appeal. Trump’s ability to project authenticity resonated with voters, even if they didn’t personally like him.
The conversation also addressed the impact of gender on Harris’s campaign. While Harris faced scrutiny over her dual identity as a woman and a politician, her campaign did not fall into the typical traps of ambition backlash that other female candidates have experienced. This allowed her to focus on policy without detracting from her identity.
Abortion emerged as a pivotal issue during the election, with 60% of voters supporting legal abortion, but 30% still voting for Trump. O’Rourke pointed out that while Trump’s messaging on abortion was often misleading, he skillfully navigated the topic to his advantage. Kristen Soltis Anderson remarked on the intertwining narratives of abortion and economic dissatisfaction, suggesting that voters hold Democrats accountable for a broader sense of dysfunction in government.
Hunter highlighted notable achievements for women in politics, citing that three state legislatures are now more evenly split between men and women, alongside record numbers of women governors. She also noted the significance of candidates like Nikki Haley and Harris, who are reshaping expectations for women in leadership roles through their debate performances. These advancements suggest a gradual but important shift in the political landscape, reflecting broader societal changes.
The panel concluded with a sense of cautious optimism. While the results of the 2024 elections revealed entrenched divisions and surprising shifts in voter demographics, they also illuminated pathways for future candidates. As political strategists and party leaders reflect on these lessons, the insights shared during the event will undoubtedly influence the strategies employed in upcoming elections. The 2024 election was not just a referendum on candidates, but a complex interplay of identity, policy, and public sentiment. As we move forward, understanding these dynamics will be crucial for both parties aiming to connect with an increasingly diverse electorate.
