Donald Trump, former US President, is increasing his efforts to appeal to female voters, portraying himself as their “guardian” in the run-up to the 2024 presidential election. In a Pennsylvania rally on September 23, 2024, he made broad statements about the current status of women in the United States and vowed significant enhancements if he is re-elected.
Trump asserted, “Women are poorer, less safe, and less healthy now than they were four years ago.” He further pledged that under his administration, women would enjoy better health, increased self-assurance, and a sense of liberty.
However, Trump’s grand promises have been met with doubt, specifically around abortion. He has been a vocal supporter of the Supreme Court’s 2022 ruling that overturned Roe v. Wade. If re-elected, Trump indicated that abortion would cease to be a primary concern for women. At the rally, he stated that women would no longer feel deserted or scared, and the states would adequately address the abortion issue.
The response from female voters to these statements has varied. Polls indicate a noticeable gender gap, with many women preferring Vice President Kamala Harris over Trump. A recent New York Times/Siena College poll showed Harris leading Trump by 52% to 31% among women voters.
During the rally, Trump accused Democrats of backing extreme abortion procedures, including the erroneous claim that they favor executing a baby after birth. This claim has been successfully debunked. Vice President Harris critiqued Trump’s comments during a recent debate, suggesting they distract from his policies, which she contends have consistently disadvantaged women.
Simultaneously, Trump presented himself as a more moderate voice on abortion than other Republicans. While many in his party have advocated for a nationwide abortion prohibition, Trump believes the decision should be left to individual states. This stance has received both support and criticism within conservative circles, where views on abortion restrictions vary.
While rallying his supporters, Trump continues to face criticism for previous legal issues involving accusations of sexual abuse. Earlier this year, a jury deemed him liable for sexually abusing and defaming E. Jean Carroll, leading to a $5 million damages award. Undeterred, Trump frequently reiterates his role as a guardian of women.
Trump’s attempts to secure the support of female voters will be vital in the 2024 election. With the issue of abortion rights being a major factor and polls showing a significant gender divide, it remains unclear whether his pledges of protection and empowerment will resonate with women. Despite Trump’s ongoing promises of significant changes, many voters recall the impact of his past policies on women’s rights and remain skeptical.