The new CNN poll conducted by SSRS shows that Donald Trump maintains an advantage over President Joe Biden in a head-to-head matchup among registered voters, with 49% support for Trump and 43% for Biden. When looking back at their presidencies, 55% of Americans see Trump’s term as a success, while only 44% see it as a failure. In contrast, 61% view Biden’s presidency so far as a failure, with only 39% considering it a success. This shift in opinion appears to favor Trump as they both vie for a second term in the White House.
Republicans are more unified in their belief that Trump’s presidency was successful, with 92% of Republicans holding this view, compared to only 73% of Democrats who see Biden’s term as a success. Independents are also leaning towards Trump, with 51% viewing his presidency as successful, while only 37% see Biden’s as a success. There is some overlap in opinions, with 14% of Americans considering both presidents to be failures and 8% viewing them both as successes.
Negative views of Biden’s work in office persist, with 60% disapproving of his handling of the job. Even on issues like health care and student loan debt, his approval ratings remain in negative territory. Economic concerns are a key factor for voters, with 65% of registered voters considering the economy extremely important when choosing a candidate. Those who prioritize the economy heavily favor Trump in a matchup against Biden, at 62% to 30%.
A majority of Americans, 70%, believe that economic conditions in the US are poor. Many, especially Republicans, feel that their views on the economy would be more influenced by a political shift than changes in economic indicators. Dissatisfaction with personal financial situations is prevalent, particularly among lower-income households, people of color, and younger Americans. Improvements in the rate of inflation could change perceptions of the economy for many voters.
Other key issues for voters in the upcoming election include protecting democracy, immigration, crime, and gun policy. Impressions of both candidates remain negative, with a majority of voters being dissatisfied with their choices. Independent candidates could also impact the race, with Robert F. Kennedy Jr. and Cornel West drawing support away from both Trump and Biden. Among voters under 35, Biden trails Trump, especially among those who did not vote in 2020. There is also a lack of understanding between Biden and Trump supporters, with many on both sides unable to comprehend why someone would support the other candidate.
