Can Kamala Harris beat Donald Trump? Latest poll updates

Vice President Kamala Harris and former President Donald Trump are set to face off in the upcoming 2024 presidential election, with just weeks left until Americans head to the polls. The latest polls indicate a tight race between the two candidates, with Trump leading in several swing states, although margins are too close to call in most cases.

A recent New York Times poll showed Harris leading Trump by a slim margin of 3 points, with indications that some Republicans may be leaning towards voting for Harris instead. The average of national polls compiled by FiveThirtyEight also shows Harris with a 2.5-point lead over Trump, maintaining a slight edge in the polls for several months.

The dynamic between Trump and Harris varies across different demographics and states. While Trump is currently leading in four out of seven swing states, Harris is ahead in one. The gender divide in voter preferences is evident, with significant differences between how men and women are leaning towards the candidates in various swing states.

Interestingly, older generations of voters, who have traditionally leaned Republican, are displaying a shift in their support. Recent polls suggest that Trump’s lead among older voters has significantly decreased, with both Harris and Trump nearly tied in this demographic group.

Meanwhile, in the aftermath of a vice presidential debate between Ohio Senator Vance and Minnesota Governor Walz, Vance emerged as the unexpected winner, receiving a boost in favourability ratings. The debate results have reshaped the public perception of the candidates, particularly among Democratic voters.

Key issues driving voter decisions in this election include the economy, abortion, immigration, and healthcare. Trump voters tend to prioritize immigration as a crucial issue, while healthcare and abortion are significant concerns for Harris supporters. The candidates’ stances on these key issues are influencing voter preferences as the election approaches.

In Arizona, a historically Republican state that holds 11 electoral college votes, voters are particularly focused on immigration and the economy. The state, which flipped for Biden in 2020, has witnessed inconsistent polling results between Harris and Trump, signaling a competitive race in this crucial battleground.

As the election draws near, both candidates continue to campaign vigorously, seeking to sway undecided voters and solidify their support base. The upcoming weeks will be crucial in determining the outcome of this closely contested presidential race.