Donald Trump, who previously criticized the Democratic Party over the “garbage” controversy, is now under fire for a controversial statement about women’s protection. Trump claimed he would protect women “whether they like it or not.” Kamala Harris, the Democratic Vice Presidential candidate, has strongly attacked Trump’s remarks as insulting and dismissive of women’s autonomy. As the presidential race remains tight, securing the female vote is crucial, bringing the issue of abortion rights back to the forefront.
Harris, who has been advocating for abortion rights and courting female voters, criticized Trump for his disrespect toward women. During a visit to Phoenix, Arizona, Harris referenced Trump’s recent remarks, highlighting his comment about acting regardless of whether women approve. Harris warned that if Trump is elected, he could ban abortion nationwide, restrict access to contraception, and jeopardize IVF, urging voters to take action at the polls.
As of October 31st, national polls showed Harris leading Trump by 1 percentage point, with a 49% approval rating. Democrats were put on high alert after President Joe Biden referred to Trump supporters as “garbage” on September 29, which Trump seized upon to attack both Harris and Biden during a rally in Green Bay, Wisconsin. Trump framed himself as a protector of women amid rising crime, but his use of the term “women’s protection” has sparked controversy from his own campaign staff.
The Republican candidate has struggled to gain support from female voters. The 2022 Supreme Court decision that denied federal protection for abortion rights, allowing state governments to decide, faced backlash from Democrats, who blamed Trump-appointed conservative justices for the erosion of abortion rights. While Trump has not explicitly supported federal guarantees for abortion rights, he has consistently maintained that the decision should rest with individual states.
Harris responded to Trump’s comments in Madison, Wisconsin, labeling them as highly offensive for disregarding women’s autonomy and ability to make decisions about their own lives and bodies. Harris further criticized Trump for contributing to a situation where a third of American women now reside in states where “Trump’s abortion ban” is in effect.
The New York Times noted that the votes of white women, who comprise about 30% of the electorate and traditionally favored Republicans, are pivotal in this election. Recent surveys indicate a slight shift toward Harris. Economic issues, abortion rights, and immigration are the leading concerns among this demographic. Trump’s recent remarks are seen as an attempt to sway female voters back to his camp.
Mark Cuban, NBA Dallas Mavericks owner and known supporter of Harris, criticized Trump during an NBC appearance, suggesting that Trump avoids strong, intelligent women because he finds them threatening. Trump’s campaign countered this by accusing the criticism of implying that female supporters of Trump are “weak and dumb.”