A political advertisement suggesting that “women can vote for Democratic candidate Kamala Harris without informing their husbands” has ignited controversy, upsetting many prominent conservatives. This controversy underscores how gender dynamics are playing a significant role in the 2024 US presidential election. If Harris wins, she would make history as the first female president at age 60.
As polls opened nationwide on Tuesday, Americans participated in a tightly contested election between Harris and Republican candidate Donald Trump. On the final rally day, Harris focused her efforts on Pennsylvania, declaring, “Momentum is on our side,” while Trump presented himself as the only solution for a nation he claims is in decline, overwhelmed by “savage” migrants.
The ad features a woman nervously entering a polling booth after her husband votes, who then locks eyes with another woman. They both cast their votes, and after exiting, they meet their husbands, who presumably supported Trump. Julia Roberts, the actress in the ad, remarks, “In the one place in America where women still have a right to choose, you can vote any way you want, and no one will ever know.”
Despite the implications of the ad, Harris has refrained from directly stating her potential historic role as the first female president. The advertisement emphasizes the widening gender gap between Harris and Trump, as Trump’s campaign focuses on traditional masculinity, while gender issues also highlight vital themes such as abortion rights, child care, and transgender rights.
Produced by Vote Common Good, a nonprofit aimed at engaging religious voters, the campaign video has faced backlash from Trump and his allies. As millions of Americans headed to the polls, both candidates anxiously awaited results that could reshape the political landscape, with Harris seeking to make history and Trump aiming for a stunning comeback.