Kamala Harris Gains Ground Among Incarcerated Voters as 2024 Election Heats Up
In a surprising turn of events in the lead-up to the 2024 presidential election, Vice President Kamala Harris has seen a significant surge in support from incarcerated individuals, nearly doubling the backing that President Joe Biden received during his campaign. According to surveys conducted by the Marshall Project, a nonprofit news organization focused on the U.S. criminal justice system, Harris’s appeal has resonated with voters behind bars, reflecting a desire for change in the political landscape.
The surveys revealed that 35% of incarcerated respondents expressed their intention to vote for Harris, compared to just 20% who had previously supported Biden. Meanwhile, support for former President Donald Trump remained robust at 44%. This shift was particularly notable among Black respondents, where support for Harris jumped from 26% to 51% after she entered the race, indicating a growing enthusiasm for her candidacy.
The Marshall Project conducted two surveys: the first while Biden was still in the race, and a follow-up after he dropped out. Approximately 11,500 individuals across 542 facilities in 41 states and the District of Columbia participated in both surveys, providing a unique insight into the evolving political sentiments among those incarcerated.
One of the key themes that emerged from the responses was a widespread frustration with the political status quo. Many respondents expressed a yearning for fresh leadership, with several citing Harris’s identity as a Black woman as a motivating factor for their support. “She’s a Black woman. I’m a Black man; she gets my vote by default,” wrote one respondent from West Virginia. Others echoed similar sentiments, emphasizing the need for a woman in the Oval Office after decades of male leadership.
Age also played a significant role in shaping opinions. With Biden over 80 and Trump only a few years younger, many respondents felt that Harris, being younger, could better connect with the issues facing younger generations. “How can an 80-year-old not be out of touch with the younger world?” questioned one participant from Arkansas, highlighting concerns about generational disconnect in leadership.
Despite the enthusiasm for Harris, some respondents admitted their support was more about opposing Trump than a strong endorsement of her policies. Phrases like “She’s not Trump” were common among those who switched their votes, indicating a reluctance to fully embrace her candidacy. “It’s not that I believe Kamala Harris is the best choice for president,” one respondent noted, “but anybody but Trump.”
While many expressed hope that Harris could bring about change, particularly in addressing economic issues, there was also skepticism about whether either candidate would prioritize criminal justice reform. Respondents voiced concerns about long sentences, wrongful convictions, and the overall conditions within prisons. “Doesn’t matter who becomes president, this country is in serious trouble,” lamented one Latino man in Arizona, reflecting a sense of despair about the political system.
As the election approaches, Harris’s rising support among incarcerated voters underscores a broader desire for change and a break from traditional political norms. Whether this momentum will translate into tangible electoral success remains to be seen, but it certainly signals a shift in the dynamics of the 2024 race. With the stakes higher than ever, both candidates will need to address the concerns of all voters, including those behind bars, if they hope to secure a victory in November.
