(DailyEmailNews.com) – Just before the two candidates are set to face each other in tonight’s bombshell presidential debate, the latest Harvard/Harris poll shows a neck-and-neck race between Republican nominee Donald Trump and Kamala Harris.
According to the poll, both candidates have a 47% favorability rate, but Trump has a slight advantage with a 52% job approval rating.
“Harris has drawn to dead even but Trump has an edge in the underlying numbers given his higher job approval and the overall low approval of the Biden administration,” explained Harvard CAPS/Harris poll co-director Mark Penn.
Voters believe Harris would better handle issues like abortion, climate change and racial inequality, whereas Trump is seen as more effective on the economy, immigration, crime,and China relations.
Each candidate has solid support from their core groups. Rural, white and male voters lean toward Trump, with percentages of 59%, 54% and 50%, respectively.
Harris is favored by 71% of Black voters, 57% of urban voters and 52% of those with a college education. Independents are split almost evenly, and one-third are still undecided.
Hispanic voters show a 7-point preference for Harris over Trump, with undecideds making up another 7%.
The survey also highlighted perceptions of the candidates’ stances on various issues.
Respondents see Trump as a stronger ally to Israel, tougher on China and more protective of free speech on social media.
On the flip side, Harris is viewed as supportive of open borders, compassionate law enforcement, healthcare for migrants and the transition to electric vehicles.
On abortion, Trump is perceived as supporting a national ban, while Harris is seen as opposing it.
The poll indicates that 47% of voters approve of Harris’ performance as vice president, with strong support from Democrats, Black voters and urban residents.
Concerns about the economy are prominent: 63% of voters feel it is on the wrong track and 62% call it weak.
Inflation is a top issue for 42% of voters, showing a 5-point increase from July.
Nearly half of all voters feel their personal financial situation is worsening, particularly among rural residents, those aged 55-64 and women.
This survey was conducted on September 4-5 and included 2,358 registered voters but did not specify a margin of error.
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