The Evolving Role and Challenges of the Vice Presidency in the 21st Century

The Role of Vice President in the 2024 Election: A Closer Look at Public Perception

The position of vice president has long been considered insignificant, with limited power and often overshadowed by the president. However, in the 21st century, vice presidents face a new set of challenges that impact their public perception, including social media and increasing political polarization.

Vice President Mike Pence and Vice President Kamala Harris are prime examples of this shift. Both started their tenure with lower net favorable/unfavorable ratings than their predecessors, according to national opinion polls. Harris, in particular, has faced scrutiny and criticism, especially as she took on divisive issues like the southern border early in the Biden administration.

As the 2024 election approaches, Harris has become a target for Republicans, with some questioning her qualifications and raising concerns about her potential presidency. Her historic role as the first woman and woman of color to serve as vice president has also brought added scrutiny and expectations that may not align with past perceptions of the position.

Despite these challenges, the choice of vice president is unlikely to sway voters in the upcoming election. With a likely rematch between Biden and Trump, the focus remains on the presidential candidates rather than their running mates.

As the role of vice president continues to evolve in the modern political landscape, it will be interesting to see how future vice presidents navigate the complexities of public perception and political scrutiny.