A new poll from the New York Times and Siena College shows that the race for the presidency between Donald Trump and Joe Biden remains tight, with each candidate receiving 46% and 45% of support from registered voters nationwide, respectively. This is a narrower race compared to the previous Times/Siena survey, which had Trump leading by 5 points. The current CNN Poll of Polls average also shows an even split at 48% for each candidate with the new poll factored in. Despite the close race, most voters still believe that the US is heading in the wrong direction, with Biden’s approval rating at 38% and perceptions of the economy being more negative than positive.
As Biden prepares to campaign in battleground Pennsylvania, he aims to highlight his plans to raise taxes on the wealthiest Americans and corporations as a way to draw an economic contrast with Trump. His team is emphasizing positive aspects of the economy, such as low unemployment and wage gains, while also pointing out the downward trend in inflation since earlier in the administration. In contrast, Trump is focusing on extending the tax cuts that were approved by congressional Republicans in 2017 as one of his core issues for a potential second term. He recently raised $50.5 million at a fundraiser in Florida and is expected to hold a campaign rally and donor event in Pennsylvania.
Despite his campaign activities, Trump is also facing the start of his criminal hush money trial on Monday. This comes as 54% of respondents in the poll believe that he has committed serious federal crimes, which is consistent with the results of the February Times/Siena survey. As the election draws near, both candidates are making efforts to appeal to voters on key issues such as the economy and taxes. Biden is focusing on his tax plans to benefit working Americans, while Trump is continuing to push for tax cuts and emphasizing his economic achievements during his administration.
The race for the presidency remains highly contested, with both candidates actively campaigning and addressing key issues that matter to voters. With a close split in support nationwide, the outcome of the election will likely come down to factors such as voter turnout, swing states, and the candidates’ abilities to connect with voters on important policy issues. As the campaign intensifies and the election draws closer, both Trump and Biden will continue to make their cases to the American people while also facing challenges such as legal trials and negative perceptions from the public. Regardless of the outcome, the 2020 presidential election is shaping up to be one of the most closely watched and hotly contested races in recent memory.
