The Epoch Times interviewed independent voters to determine their voting plans for the upcoming November election. Recent polls indicate that Vice President Kamala Harris has gained support among independent voters following President Joe Biden’s decision not to run for re-election in 2024.
According to a HarrisX/Forbes poll conducted from July 22 to 25, 47 percent of registered voters favor former President Donald Trump, while 45 percent would vote for Harris. Among likely voters, Trump leads Harris 49 percent to 46 percent. Another poll by Quinnipiac University on July 22 shows that 55 percent of independent voters support Trump, while 41 percent support Harris, indicating a competitive race ahead.
The Epoch Times spoke with independent voters to understand their voting intentions for November. One key issue for many independents is Harris’s stance on health care, particularly the Affordable Care Act (ACA), also known as Obamacare. This legislation has been a significant factor in the lives of many Americans, including retirees like June Goering, a retired nurse and musician from Kansas.
Gwen Fair from Alabama, a member of a politically active family, is reevaluating her voting choices following recent developments in the Biden administration. She expressed dissatisfaction with Biden and uncertainty about Harris’s positions on key issues. Fair emphasized the importance of informed voting and expressed reservations about both Trump and Harris.
Former Trump supporters like tech writer Richard Kiczek have shifted their allegiance to Harris, citing disillusionment with Trump’s behavior and alignment with Harris’s policies. Kiczek appreciates Harris’s positions on various issues and plans to support her in the upcoming election.
Rev. David Lowery, a pastor from Illinois, is skeptical of Harris’s leadership, citing concerns about crime rates and immigration policies. Lowery expressed strong support for Trump and criticized the Democratic Party’s handling of key issues.
Over-the-road truck driver Rob Sauder from Houston is considering voting for Harris as an independent voter. Initially supporting the Libertarian Party nominee, Sauder is evaluating his options amidst increasing political polarization.
Politics has played a significant role in Sauder’s decision-making process.
âI am not a big fan of Harris, but I refuse to vote for Trump, and Oliver isnât gaining momentum,â Sauder said. âI want my vote to make a difference.â
Sauder, who puts in 50 to 70 hours a week to support himself and his family, is particularly concerned about the economy, the border, and the nationâs foreign policy regarding Israel. He expressed frustration over the challenge of obtaining unbiased information about candidates that hasnât been manipulated by the media.
âDuring the Biden administration, [Harris] was rarely seen, didnât speak up, and appeared unsure of herself,â Sauder remarked. âI want to have faith in her, but her stance on the border and foreign policy remains ambiguous.â
Speaking to The Epoch Times, Sauder voiced his belief that the Republican Party has veered too far to the right. Despite Trump not endorsing Project 2025, Sauder expressed apprehension about its implications.
Project 2025, also referred to as the 2025 Presidential Transition Project, is an effort led by The Heritage Foundation and backed by over 100 conservative organizations. Its goal is to lay the groundwork for a potential Republican administration in 2025 by formulating a comprehensive policy agenda and devising a 180-day plan to swiftly enact conservative policies.
âI will support Harris if she becomes the official nominee. She brings a youthful perspective and feels like a breath of fresh air,â Sauder concluded.
