CNN conducted an instant poll following Tuesday night’s presidential debate that indicated Vice President Kamala Harris won the discussion with 63 percent of viewers favoring her performance. This marked a significant shift from previous expectations, as pre-debate polls showed a 50-50 split on who would win. Harris’ favorability rating also saw an increase, moving from 39 percent to 45 percent, while former President Donald Trump’s favorability decreased from 41 percent to 39 percent after the debate. Independent voters, in particular, showed a change in perception, with a shift from -17 to +9 in favor of Harris. Undecided voters in a focus group expressed a preference for Harris over Trump, citing her optimism, respectfulness, and concrete plans.
During the debate, viewers were provided with dials to gauge their reactions in real-time. The majority of participants in a focus group shared that the debate had helped them make up their minds about the candidates. One member praised Harris for her optimistic and respectful demeanor, as well as her detailed plans for the future. Another viewer expressed concerns about Trump’s policies and rhetoric, particularly on issues like abortion. When Trump made claims about Governor Tim Walz’s views on abortion, the dials shifted negative, indicating a disapproval among viewers. However, when Harris discussed her stance on abortion and criticized Trump’s policies, the dials showed a more positive reaction.
Harris focused on criticizing Trump’s selection of Supreme Court justices and their impact on reproductive rights, particularly citing bans that criminalize providing abortions without exceptions for rape or incest. She argued against government interference in personal decisions, emphasizing the importance of individual freedoms. Viewers responded positively to Harris’ passionate defense of reproductive rights, with many citing it as a key moment in the debate. Additionally, a significant percentage of viewers believed Harris had a better plan to solve the country’s problems compared to Trump.
Overall, the flash poll conducted by CNN after the debate showed a clear victory for Kamala Harris among viewers, with a majority favoring her performance over that of former President Donald Trump. Harris’ favorability rating saw an increase, while Trump’s decreased, particularly among independent voters. Viewers praised Harris for her optimism, respectfulness, and detailed plans, highlighting her passion for defending reproductive rights and individual freedoms. The debate appeared to have a significant impact on undecided voters, with many expressing a preference for Harris based on her performance and policy proposals.
