2024 US election exposes a widening gender divide shaping political futures
2024 US election exposes a widening gender divide shaping political futures
2024 US election exposes a widening gender divide shaping political futures
The 2024 US presidential election among us highlighted a deepening gender divide, with Donald Trump winning the national popular vote by narrowing losses among women while expanding his lead among men. Exit polls showed women in key swing states favoured Kamala Harris by 8 to 12 points, while men backed Trump by 6 to 10 points—a gap far wider than in 2020. The shift reflects ongoing dissatisfaction with Trump's policies, particularly on abortion rights after the overturn of Roe v. Wade in 2022.
The gender gap in US elections has remained steady, but its impact on party success has flipped. In 2020, Democrats benefited as women supported Joe Biden over Trump by 6 to 12 points, while men leaned toward Trump. By 2024, Republicans gained the advantage: Trump's margin among men grew, and his losses among women shrank, helping him secure the popular vote. Yet women's disapproval of Trump remains high, with polls showing around 60% or more viewing him unfavourably.
Democrats have long relied on a strategy outlined by pollster Celinda Lake—winning women by a larger margin than Republicans win men. This approach succeeded in 2018 and 2020 but faltered in 2022 and 2024. Women's concerns over Trump's policies, especially his stance on abortion and perceived extremism, have kept his approval ratings low among them. His 2026 standing with female voters mirrors his unpopularity during his first term, posing a major challenge for Republicans.
Looking ahead, Democrats may regain ground in 2026 if Trump's weak support among women persists. The party's ability to address women's doubts—while capitalising on Republican struggles—could determine whether they pass Lake's test once more. However, Trump's path to improving his image with women appears steeper than his efforts to maintain male support.
The 2024 results confirm that the gender gap remains a decisive force in US elections, with women's opposition to Trump shaping outcomes in swing states. For Democrats, rebuilding trust with female voters is critical, while Republicans face the risk of continued backlash over Trump's policies. The 2026 elections may hinge on whether Democrats can again outperform Republicans among women—or whether Trump's low approval ratings among them persist.
AND-E's Elevate Programme Transforms Women's Leadership in Second Year
From promotions to self-discovery, this initiative is reshaping careers. See how 13 women broke barriers—and why 99% would recommend it.
Koblenz series WHAT DRIVES HER... amplifies female leaders' untold stories
From boardrooms to workshops, these women redefine ambition. A raw, local series breaks barriers by asking: What fuels their drive?
Zivame's Women's Day Panel Demands Real Change Over Symbolism
What if Women's Day wasn't about gestures but real reform? Zivame's bold panel exposed gaps in workplace equity—and how brands can fix them. From high-stakes decisions to everyday accountability, these leaders redefined leadership.
Women's Leadership Program returns with a focus on connection and career growth
A safe space for women to share challenges and build careers returns—this time fully integrated into the summit. Discover how mentorship and AI-era skills take center stage.