Former President Trump’s strategy of targeting his political opponents with personal insults is widening the gender divide among 2024 election voters, according to Republican pollster Frank Luntz.
On CNN, anchor Michael Smerconish discussed a recent Fox News poll highlighting an outstanding 22-point gender gap: men preferred Trump by 12 points, while women favored Vice President Kamala Harris by 10. “Kamala Harris seems to remind men of their first wife, whereas Trump reminds women of their first husband’s divorce lawyer,” Luntz remarked, noting the truth behind this humorous observation. “It’s both funny and accurate.”
Luntz criticized Trump’s approach, asserting that the former president’s offensive remarks are exacerbating the gender divide, which he described as a chasm rather than a mere gap. He even speculated that this political feud might lead to personal conflicts, like divorces.
Earlier in the week, Luntz had already condemned Trump’s campaign tactics, urging him to abandon insults and concentrate on constructive policy discussions. His advice aligns with that of other Republicans who recommend focusing on policy over personal attacks.
“First, avoid mocking your opponent’s appearance or mannerisms, as women find that unacceptable,” Luntz advised. “Second, voters want to hear about future solutions rather than grievances about the past. Trump’s current approach is contrary to these expectations.”
He added that, given the challenging economic climate and rising inflation, Trump should present solutions to these issues. “Harris addressed these concerns in her recent rally in North Carolina, revealing her economic plan. Whether or not you agree with her proposals, she is at least engaging with the issues,” Luntz noted.