Over the past four months, The New York Times has engaged in conversations with undecided voters following some of the most pivotal moments of the presidential campaign. Our goal has been to understand how these significant events are influencing their choices. The individuals we spoke to reside in key battleground states, where polling results are closely contested, and the opinions of voters like them will have a substantial impact on the final outcome of the election.
These voters express a range of concerns, including the rising cost of living, the unpredictable behavior of former President Donald J. Trump, and the vision Vice President Kamala Harris has for the future of the country. They come from diverse backgrounds, representing sporadic voters, disenchanted former partisans, and individuals from both Republican and Democratic affiliations. Some have shifted their preferences throughout the campaign, while others plan to make their decisions at the ballot box.
Despite the numerous developments in recent months, polling numbers have remained relatively stable. A significant majority of American voters have already made their choices, which underscores the importance of the final decisions made by those who are still persuadable.
Kristen Morris voted for Ms. Harris.
“I chose to vote for Kamala Harris because I find her to be a predictable leader, which is essential during these tumultuous times. We are facing numerous challenges in the coming years, and I believe we need someone steady at the helm. Initially, I was looking for Donald Trump to show how he had changed since the events of January 6. That day left a deep impression on me, and I hoped he would evolve into a more responsible leader. However, as the campaign progressed, I observed him becoming increasingly extreme, which was troubling. I have always identified as a moderate Republican, and I made a conscious effort to keep an open mind throughout this process. Voting for a Democrat is not something I would typically consider, but I felt it was necessary given the circumstances.”
In the spring, Kristen Morris, 60, a former Republican, found herself grappling with a sense of disillusionment regarding her choices for president. She expressed significant concerns about President Biden, whom she had supported in the 2020 election. Her worries revolved around his cognitive capabilities and dissatisfaction with his approach to the withdrawal from Afghanistan. Additionally, she was taken aback by Trump’s continued lack of remorse for the events surrounding the January 6 insurrection.
