Post-Debate Analysis: Undecided Voters Express Mixed Reactions to Trump and Harris Performances

A New York Times survey of undecided voters reveals mixed reactions to the recent presidential debate between former President Trump and Vice President Harris. While many found Harris to be more presidential than Trump, neither candidate swayed a majority of respondents.

In the wake of the highly anticipated presidential debate between former President Trump and Vice President Kamala Harris, a survey conducted by The New York Times has shed light on the reactions of undecided voters. The survey, which interviewed respondents in five states, found that neither candidate made a significant impact on the views of most undecided voters.

"She didn’t, kind of, separate herself," said Shavanaka Kelly, an undecided voter from Milwaukee, Wisconsin, referring to Harris. "It was kind of like, ‘can you take him serious?’" Kelly expressed amusement at Trump's claim that migrants were stealing and eating pets in Ohio.

Post-Debate Analysis: Undecided Voters Express Mixed Reactions to Trump and Harris Performances

Post-Debate Analysis: Undecided Voters Express Mixed Reactions to Trump and Harris Performances

Sharon Reed, a retired teacher from Pennsylvania, and her husband, Bob, were also left unimpressed by the debate. They had hoped to be convinced by either candidate but found both performances disappointing. Sharon expressed concerns about the cost of the candidates' proposed policies and the lack of detail on immigration and foreign policy.

"Mr. Trump’s tariffs and Ms. Harris’s aid to young families and small businesses — would help a couple like them, living on a fixed income that has not kept pace with inflation," the Times reported.

Post-Debate Analysis: Undecided Voters Express Mixed Reactions to Trump and Harris Performances

Post-Debate Analysis: Undecided Voters Express Mixed Reactions to Trump and Harris Performances

However, the survey did reveal some shifts in opinion among undecided voters. Kristen Morris, a North Carolina resident, said she was initially intrigued by Harris and found her debate performance convincing. "My expectations have been met," she said, expressing her intention to vote for Harris.

Conversely, Keilah Miller, an undecided voter from Milwaukee, felt "nudged unexpectedly toward Trump." She found Trump's pitch more convincing and expressed dissatisfaction with the current economic situation. "When Trump was in office — not going to lie — I was living way better," she said.

Post-Debate Analysis: Undecided Voters Express Mixed Reactions to Trump and Harris Performances

Post-Debate Analysis: Undecided Voters Express Mixed Reactions to Trump and Harris Performances

Despite the survey's findings, it is important to note that it is just one snapshot of voter sentiment and does not necessarily reflect the wider electorate. As the election approaches, it is likely that both candidates will continue to adjust their campaigns and messaging in an effort to sway undecided voters.

Post-Debate Analysis: Undecided Voters Express Mixed Reactions to Trump and Harris Performances