Final answer:
The gender gap in presidential elections is attributed to shared experiences, societal norms, and political concerns, with women facing unique challenges such as the 'likability trap'. Demographic factors including age and race also influence voting patterns, with younger voters and racial minorities typically supporting Democrats.
Step-by-step explanation:
The phenomenon of a gender gap in presidential elections, including between Joe Biden and Donald Trump, reflects broader social and political trends. Voting patterns of different demographic groups are influenced by shared experiences, concerns, and ideas. Since a noticeable gender gap emerged in 1996, the preferences of men and women in presidential elections have consistently diversified. The 2020 election indicated a gender canyon, with substantial differences in candidate support between genders.
Research shows that gender plays a significant role in how political leaders are perceived. Women candidates, in particular, often face challenges due to inherent biases, manifested in the 'likability trap', where they are judged harshly if they do not conform to traditional feminine qualities. Despite these challenges, female candidates continue to run for the highest offices, and voter turnout by women has been increasingly significant over the years, often tipping the scales in close races.
Considering age and race, a pattern emerges where younger voters and racial minorities tend to support Democratic candidates whereas older voters and households with higher incomes tend to favor Republican candidates. These demographic trends play a crucial role in shaping the political landscape in the United States.