HARRISBURG, PA — AARP Pennsylvania has released findings from its first 2024 election survey, highlighting the significant influence of women voters aged 50 and older on the upcoming election. These women represent nearly one-third of likely voters statewide and more than half of likely voters over 50.
The survey shows a tight race, with women 50+ favoring President Joe Biden over former President Donald Trump by a narrow one-point margin (48%-47%). In the U.S. Senate race, they prefer Senator Bob Casey by an 11-point margin over Dave McCormick.
Key issues for these voters include immigration and border security, inflation, and reproductive rights. Social Security and the economy also rank high in importance.
“At AARP, we know that the election is coming at a time when women 50+ are worried and feeling stretched to the limit,” said Bill Johnston-Walsh, AARP Pennsylvania State Director. “With inflation and the rising costs of living squeezing Pennsylvania households, women are feeling the pinch directly. But women 50+ consistently vote, and their message is clear: candidates need to understand and provide solutions to the issues that are significantly impacting their lives.”
Price concerns top the list for these voters, particularly utilities (51%), food (48%), and healthcare/prescription drugs (44%). Among suburban women, healthcare and food prices are tied as the most critical cost concerns (51%).
The survey reveals bipartisan agreement on these issues. Majorities of Democratic and Republican women 50+ cite these concerns as crucial.
Additional findings show overwhelming support for candidates who advocate for Social Security, caregiver support, and paid leave for unpaid family caregivers.
A significant 67% of women voters 50 and older believe the country is headed in the wrong direction, closely mirroring the sentiment of all likely voters over 50.
These insights indicate that addressing the priorities of women 50+ could be decisive in the 2024 election, making them a critical demographic for candidates to engage.
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