Polls Show Harris Leading Trump, but Economic Issues Favor Former President
In the aftermath of the recent televised debate between Vice President Kamala Harris and former President Donald Trump, the latest polls for the 2024 U.S. election reveal a complex landscape. While Harris has emerged as the frontrunner in overall polling, Trump maintains significant advantages on key economic issues that resonate with voters. An ABC/Ipsos poll conducted from September 11-13 shows Harris leading Trump 52% to 47%. However, Trump holds a seven-point advantage over Harris when it comes to handling the economy, inflation, and immigration, indicating that voters still trust him on these critical matters.
The debate has not only solidified Harris's lead but also highlighted Trump's strengths. In the same poll, 46% of respondents believe Trump is more capable of addressing inflation compared to 39% for Harris. On immigration, Trump leads with 47% support, while Harris trails at 37%. This division suggests that while Harris may be winning the popularity contest, Trump’s economic policies resonate strongly with a significant portion of the electorate.
Trump's Tariff Proposals Gain Support Amid Polling Challenges
In a separate poll conducted by Reuters/Ipsos, 56% of voters expressed support for Trump's proposal to raise tariffs on imported goods, particularly from China. This economic strategy may bolster Trump’s standing as he promises to tackle the national debt, which weighs heavily on voters’ minds. The poll indicates that 37% see Trump as more likely to focus on reducing the $35 trillion national debt compared to 30% who believe the same of Harris.
Despite Harris's lead in the polls, Trump's economic vision and his pledge to impose tariffs have provided him with a tactical advantage. His proposals could potentially attract undecided voters, especially in key swing states that will ultimately determine the election outcome. As the campaign progresses, it will be crucial to monitor how these economic issues influence voter sentiment and whether Trump can capitalize on his strengths to close the gap with Harris.
