A CNN commentator's suggestion that Democrats' focus on transgender issues is alienating male voters has sparked immediate backlash on the network. The remarks, made by Scott Jennings, come amidst concerns about Vice President Kamala Harris's low approval ratings among men.
CNN panelist Scott Jennings ignited controversy on Sunday after suggesting that Vice President Kamala Harris's low poll numbers among male voters stemmed from Democrats' perceived prioritization of transgender issues.
CNN Panelist Sparks Controversy over Democrats' Focus on Trans Issues
Jennings' comments during a CNN panel discussion drew immediate criticism from fellow panelists, signaling deep divisions within the party over how to address the growing gender gap in voter support.
"I think what they are now finally...coming to realize is that a lot of men think Democrats care more about dudes who want to become women than dudes who just want to be dudes," Jennings said.
CNN Panelist Sparks Controversy over Democrats' Focus on Trans Issues
The remark sparked groans and interruptions from other panelists, who vehemently disagreed with Jennings' assessment.
Harris has faced criticism for her handling of several issues, including the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic and the administration's domestic agenda. However, her poll numbers among male voters have stood out as a particular concern for Democratic strategists.
CNN Panelist Sparks Controversy over Democrats' Focus on Trans Issues
A recent New York Times/Siena College survey found that 51% of registered male voters supported former President Donald Trump compared to only 40% for Harris. This gap is significantly wider than the gender gap observed in previous presidential elections.
Former President Barack Obama has also expressed concerns about male voters' perceived lack of support for Harris.
"We have not yet seen the same kinds of energy and turnout in all corners of our neighborhoods and communities as we saw when I was running," Obama said during a pre-campaign-rally stop in Pittsburgh last week. "[P]art of it makes me think, and I’m speaking to men directly… that, well, you just aren’t feeling the idea of having a woman as president, and you’re coming up with other alternatives and other reasons for that."
Jennings' comments further heightened tensions within the Democratic Party over how to address the issue of gender inequality. Some Democrats argue that the party must be more vocal in its support of transgender rights, while others believe that the focus should be on addressing the economic and social concerns of all Americans, regardless of gender identity.
The debate over Harris's poll numbers among male voters is expected to continue in the lead-up to the 2024 presidential election. The Democratic Party will need to carefully navigate these divisions and find a message that resonates with all voters if it hopes to maintain its hold on power.
