Trump Maintains Strong Support Among Republican Voters
In the latest national poll conducted by Quinnipiac University, former President Donald Trump continues to hold a significant lead in the Republican nomination race for the 2024 presidential election. The poll reveals that two-thirds (67%) of Republican and GOP-leaning voters support Trump, marking his highest level of support in Quinnipiac polling this cycle.
However, the poll also highlights the rising popularity of two other contenders. Former U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations Nikki Haley and Florida Governor Ron DeSantis each garnered 11% support, placing them in a close battle for second place.
Challenges for DeSantis and Momentum for Haley
Despite being a frontrunner for several months, DeSantis has experienced a decline in his numbers, indicating a potential shift in voter preferences. On the other hand, Haley has gained momentum in the polls, partly due to her impressive performances in the early Republican presidential debates. Her rise in popularity has allowed her to surpass DeSantis in key states such as New Hampshire and her home state.
Trump’s Indictment and its Impact on Support
Earlier this year, Donald Trump made history as the first former or current president to be indicted for a crime. However, rather than diminishing his support, the charges, including allegations of attempting to overturn the 2020 presidential election, have only fueled his backing among Republican voters.
Trump’s Stronghold among Supporters
One striking finding from the Quinnipiac poll is the unwavering loyalty of Trump’s supporters compared to those backing other Republican candidates. Only 37% of Trump supporters stated that they might change their minds, while a staggering 82% of those supporting his rivals expressed potential openness to reconsidering their choice.
General Election Matchup
In a hypothetical general election matchup against President Joe Biden, the poll indicates a virtual tie, with Biden at 47% and Trump at 46%. However, when third-party and independent candidates are included, Trump gains a slight edge over the incumbent president. The poll shows Trump at 38%, Biden at 36%, and notable figures such as Robert F. Kennedy Jr. and Cornell West also receiving support.
Approval Rating for President Biden
The Quinnipiac poll also revealed that President Biden’s approval rating remains below 40%, with 38% approval and 58% disapproval. These numbers have remained largely unchanged in the past month, suggesting a consistent level of public sentiment towards the current administration.