In the race for the Democratic nomination for the upcoming November election, Kamala Harris, the current vice-president, is gaining momentum. However, American Gen Z voters have expressed a range of opinions about her candidacy, citing reasons both for and against her bid and pondering whether she could defeat President Donald Trump.

One Gen Z voter, Will, a 22-year-old construction worker from Portland, Oregon, expressed confidence in Harris, stating, "I think [Kamala Harris] is the only one that makes sense. She will get the votes Biden couldn't. She could get the Black, Asian, Latino, women's, LGBTQ+ and youth votes. She stands more for progress and equality than an old white dude and if she wins it will be historic."

Lizzie, a 28-year-old engineer from Idaho, also spoke highly of Harris's candidacy, saying, "I have so much renewed passion and hope now that Kamala is the endorsed candidate. She made history when she was elected VP, and I believe she can make history again. I feel Kamala is just what we need to energize young voters and get them to the polls."

However, not all Gen Z voters share the same optimism. Georgie, a 25-year-old research associate from Massachusetts, expressed mixed feelings, stating, "I liked Kamala when she ran back in 2020 but I'm not sure how I feel about her today. My biggest concern with her is this perception that she is silly or not serious. I just think people don't take her seriously."

Peter, a 27-year-old museum educator from Indiana, expressed skepticism about Harris's ability to counter populist candidates like Trump, mentioning her past performances under pressure. He also expressed disappointment in the lack of broad-scale democratic primary voting to support her candidacy.

Michelle, a 26-year-old from Wisconsin, echoed concerns about the lack of primary voting and worried that the Trump campaign could exploit this narrative. Michelle emphasized the importance of a broad-scale democratic process to strengthen Harris's position.

On the other hand, Lee Ocasio, a 28-year-old medical assistant from New York, expressed enthusiasm for Harris's candidacy, hoping for positive changes and a level-headed leader. Kaleb Stanton, a 24-year-old grocery store worker from New Mexico, expressed support for Harris based on her potential to restore Roe v Wade.

Another viewpoint came from an anonymous policy researcher in their 20s, who emphasized Harris's strengths against Republican opponents and her ability to appeal to diverse voter bases. They believed Harris's background as a former prosecutor could contrast well with Trump's legal troubles.

Overall, Gen Z voters have expressed a range of opinions on Kamala Harris's presidential bid. Some see her as a progressive candidate who could energize young voters and represent historically marginalized communities, while others have concerns about her perceived lack of seriousness and the absence of a broad-scale democratic process in her selection. As the election approaches, it remains to be seen how these varying opinions will shape the outcome.