Tim Walz and JD Vance are rapidly gaining national recognition as they strive to familiarize themselves with the American populace. However, the Ohio senator has encountered more challenges than the Minnesota governor. According to a recent poll from The Associated Press-NORC Center for Public Affairs Research, Walz had a more successful introduction as Vice President Kamala Harris’ running mate compared to Vance’s beginning as former President Donald Trump’s running mate. Around 36% of U.S. adults hold a favorable view of Walz, who is set to address the Democratic National Convention, whereas 27% view Vance positively. Notably, Vance faces a higher percentage of unfavorable views (44%) than Walz (25%).
Both candidates have garnered positive reception within their respective parties, with independents slightly favoring Walz over Vance. However, a considerable portion of the population remains unfamiliar with both individuals. Approximately 4 in 10 Americans lack sufficient knowledge about Walz to form an opinion, and a similar proportion feels the same about Vance. Despite this, both candidates have significantly increased their recognition since being chosen as vice presidential nominees.
Leading up to his convention speech, approximately 60% of Democrats express a favorable opinion of Walz. However, many critical Democratic demographics still lack awareness of him. Groups such as women, young adults under 45, Black adults, Hispanic adults, lower-income individuals, and those without college degrees exhibit a lack of knowledge about Walz. Data from AP VoteCast indicates that Walz secured support from various demographics like women, young voters, union households, suburban residents, and urban dwellers during his 2022 gubernatorial campaign in Minnesota.
On the other hand, Vance has seen a rise in favorability among Republicans following his selection as Trump’s running mate. Recent AP-NORC polling indicates that about 6 in 10 Republicans now hold a positive opinion of Vance, a notable increase from before his partnership with Trump. Older adults, at 32%, are somewhat more likely than younger individuals, at 22%, to view Vance favorably.
In the midst of the evolving perceptions surrounding both candidates, individuals like Samantha Phillis from Mankato, Minnesota, who has witnessed Walz’s impact firsthand through his policies benefiting her family, and Mary Lynch from Marquette, Michigan, who admires Vance’s demeanor and stance on family-related policies, represent a portion of the electorate deeply considering the emerging figures. The upcoming presidential election will determine the trajectory of these candidates as they endeavor to establish themselves on the national stage.
