HARRISBURG, PA — With the November election fast approaching, AARP Pennsylvania has unveiled a poll that stresses the significant influence of older women voters in shaping the political landscape of Pennsylvania, a key battleground state. Released on October 1, the poll reveals that these voters are evenly split in their support for the presidential candidates, with both Vice President Kamala Harris and former President Donald Trump securing 48% of their votes. In the Senate race, incumbent Senator Bob Casey holds a slight lead over challenger Dave McCormick among women aged 50 and older, with a margin of 48% to 45%.
This demographic, accounting for nearly one-third of likely voters and more than half of voters aged 50 and above in the state, could be pivotal in determining the outcome of the 2024 election. “Our poll is clear, the influence of women voters 50-plus is poised to be ‘the difference’ in the state’s political landscape,” stated Bill Johnston-Walsh, AARP Pennsylvania State Director. “Their voices will be central to shaping policies and priorities at all levels of government.”
The poll also highlights the priorities of these voters, with 94% favoring candidates who ensure the protection of Social Security benefits, and 79% supporting Senate candidates focused on aiding family caregivers. Additionally, 75% of older women are inclined to support candidates advocating for paid leave for family caregivers, while 89% express concerns about fraud through scams like robo-calls and phishing.
The data was collected by the bipartisan firms Fabrizio Ward and Impact Research, surveying 1,398 likely voters, including an oversample of those aged 50 and above, between September 17 and 24, 2024. The findings emphasize the critical role that older women, especially those in suburban areas, will play in the upcoming election, echoing their impact in previous election cycles.
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