U.S. Vice President Kamala Harris in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, U.S. August 20, 2024 and former U.S. President Donald Trump in Bedminster, New Jersey, U.S., August 15, 2024 are seen in a combination of file photographs. REUTERS/Marco Bello, Jeenah Moon/File Photo/File Photo
Kamala Harris Leads Donald Trump by 5 Points in NBC Poll
In a recent NBC News poll, U.S. Vice President Kamala Harris holds a 5-percentage point lead over Republican rival Donald Trump, reflecting a notable shift in public opinion since Harris emerged as the Democratic candidate for the 2024 presidential election. The poll, released on Sunday, highlights growing favorability for Harris among voters, contributing to a tighter race as the nation heads toward the November election.
Surge in Harris’ Favorability
Among the 1,000 registered voters surveyed between September 13 and 17, 48% viewed Harris positively, a significant increase from 32% in July. This marks the largest rise in favorability for any politician in recent NBC polling, surpassing even President George W. Bush’s ratings after the events of September 11, 2001. Harris’ favorability surge indicates a growing support base since she became the Democratic nominee, with her role as Vice President and former U.S. senator continuing to attract voters.
Trump’s Stable Favorability
Conversely, the poll found that 40% of respondents viewed former President Donald Trump positively, up slightly from 38% in July. Despite facing numerous legal challenges, including federal and state criminal charges related to his attempts to overturn the 2020 election, Trump remains a prominent figure in the political landscape as he embarks on his third consecutive presidential bid at age 78. His consistent ratings reflect enduring support among his core voter base.
CBS Poll Confirms Competitive Race
A separate poll conducted by CBS News found a similarly competitive race, with Harris leading Trump by 4 percentage points. The CBS poll, conducted from September 18 to 20, surveyed 3,129 registered voters and showed Harris with 52% of likely voter support compared to Trump’s 48%. The poll’s margin of error is 2 percentage points, suggesting that the race remains close as election day approaches. Harris’ modest rise from a 50-50 tie in August is attributed to her performance during a September 10 debate and positive economic news.
National Polls and Electoral College Impact
These polls align with other recent national surveys, such as those by Reuters/Ipsos, which indicate a closely contested race between Harris and Trump. While national polls provide valuable insights into public opinion, the outcome of the election will ultimately be determined by the Electoral College, with key battleground states playing a decisive role. The contest between the candidates remains tight, with both campaigns focused on critical swing states.
Shifting the Focus of the Election
Political analysts have noted that Harris’ rise in popularity has shifted the narrative of the election. According to Amy Walter, publisher and editor in chief of the nonpartisan Cook Political Report, Harris has managed to reframe the race from being a referendum on President Joe Biden to one that focuses on Donald Trump. As Harris, 59, continues her campaign, she stands poised to become the first woman to serve as President in the United States’ 248-year history, if elected.
In conclusion, with the November 5 election fast approaching, both Harris and Trump continue to vie for voter support in what is shaping up to be a closely contested and historic election.
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