Staff Reports
Vice President Kamala Harris’s so-called “bounce” in the polls has hit the ground with a thud, leaving former President Donald Trump unfazed and on top. A recent analysis by Rasmussen Reports indicates that Harris’s ascendancy is about as stable as a mobile home during a tornado. In a classic example of overhyped political media frenzy, Trump’s ability to endure what Mark Mitchell referred to as the “Obama bounce” highlights the reality check for Democrats still drumming up excitement for Harris.
Mitchell pointed out that the efforts to brand Harris as the ultimate political unicorn—both “super likable” and “super competent”—were met with strong resistance from the electorate. It seems consistent media attempts to prop up Harris with charm and competence have failed to penetrate the steady resolve of Trump supporters. Initial polling showed Harris narrowing Trump’s lead from a chilling 16-point gap to a mere six points. However, as Trump has continued to gather steam, it appears Harris has returned to the polling version of the witness protection program, disappearing from the competitive landscape.
Rasmussen: President Trump Has Survived The “Obama Bounce” New Data Shows @Rasmussen_Poll pic.twitter.com/QcD1O2NUFO
— Jayne Zirkle (@JayneZirkle) August 1, 2024
Despite the short-lived optimism surrounding Harris following her endorsement from President Obama, Trump’s polling numbers quickly regained their footing. Mitchell noted that had they polled just days earlier, they might have predicted a minor slip for Trump. But, as the days rolled on, Trump not only reclaimed his position but also managed to increase his lead to four points by the end of the month. The data indicates that Harris’s moment in the spotlight is fading faster than a snowflake in July, while Trump’s steady climb reaffirms that this race is far from over.
The latest figures from Real Clear Politics showcase just how hard it is to keep Kamala’s momentum alive. Trump leads Harris by a slim margin of 1.2 percentage points, having taken the majority in seven of the last ten polls. While Harris’s campaign continues to boast about potential gains, the numbers tell a different story—one of a candidate struggling to break through in a landscape marked by disillusionment.
Debate fans are in for a treat as Trump has expressed a desire to take the stage with Harris in a live event on Fox News. With Senator J.D. Vance weighing in, he suggested that Harris is at her worst when she is required to think on her feet rather than rely on scripted talking points. The notion that a crowd would gauge her performance adds yet another layer to her already precarious situation. With her penchant for awkwardness in unscripted situations, the prospect of a debate where spontaneity reigns could be the final nail in Kamala Harris’s presidential aspirations.
As the campaign heats up, the difference in approach between Trump and Harris couldn’t be clearer. While Harris has chosen to invite entertainers and promote a party atmosphere, Trump is opting for serious discussions with intelligent Black women addressing genuine concerns. The stark contrast between their campaign styles not only highlights the candidates’ diverse platforms but also speaks volumes about who might resonate more effectively with voters come Election Day. The question remains: can Harris shake off the tarnish of her fading “bounce,” or is she destined to become just another chapter in the long and storied annals of failed political promises?
