Exploring Gender Bias in Presidential Elections: Would Harris Be Winning If She Were a Man?

Decades of research show that unconscious biases influence how we perceive men and women in the workplace. But what about in presidential elections? With Vice President Harris being only the second woman to run for the Oval Office after Hillary Clinton, it’s difficult to gauge the impact of gender bias on voting behavior.

A recent Pew poll suggests that many Americans believe gender doesn’t affect presidential performance. However, research, such as the 2003 study by Frank Flynn and Cameron Anderson, reveals a troubling pattern: women are often seen as competent but cold, while men in similar roles are perceived as warm and intelligent.

Hillary Clinton’s 2016 campaign showed this bias in action, as criticism often focused on her demeanor rather than her policies. Clinton was labeled as cold and overly prepared, a stark contrast to how male candidates are typically evaluated.

As Harris’s campaign unfolds, her warm, relatable persona contrasts with Clinton’s more reserved approach. Despite her impressive credentials, Harris faces criticism that echoes the same gender biases, with some detractors questioning her intelligence. This raises the question: If Trump were a woman and Harris a man, would the electoral landscape look different?