Leading up to the upcoming election in November, neither Kamala Harris nor Donald Trump holds a clear advantage with the public concerning the economy. A recent poll conducted by The Associated Press-NORC Center for Public Affairs Research reveals that about 4 in 10 registered voters believe that Trump would handle the economy better, while a similar number express the same confidence in Harris. Approximately 1 in 10 voters lack trust in both candidates, with a comparable portion equally trusting them. This signals a shift from when the economy was a significant strength for Trump, turning it into a toss-up issue in the current political landscape.
The economy has traditionally been a weak spot for President Biden, with previous polls showing disapproval of his economic handling, particularly following his debate with Trump. Despite Biden’s struggles, the economy remains a pivotal concern for 8 in 10 voters as they evaluate their preferred candidate, overshadowing other important issues like healthcare and crime.
Rising inflation, hitting a four-decade high in 2022, has cast a shadow over this year’s election. Concerns over escalating grocery costs and financial strains due to higher interest rates have resonated more with the public than the low unemployment rate and stock market gains. While only about one-third of voters view the national economy positively, the majority are optimistic about their own financial situations, showing consistency throughout the year regardless of fluctuating inflation.
Both candidates present conflicting economic strategies, with Harris advocating for increased benefits for the middle class funded by higher taxes on corporations and the wealthy, while Trump promotes growth through tax cuts and imposing tariffs on imports. The two campaigns offer distinct visions for steering the economy without fully detailing the execution of their plans.
As voters weigh their options, various issues such as healthcare, crime, immigration, abortion policy, and gun policy shape public sentiment. Trump gains the edge over Harris on immigration, an area where Republicans show a stronger interest, while Harris resonates more with Democrats on gun policy, healthcare, abortion policy, and climate change. Overall, voters acknowledge the profound impact the election will have on the country’s future, economy, and democracy, although they are less convinced about its personal impact.
The survey, conducted from September 12-16, 2024, sampled 1,771 registered voters through NORC’s AmeriSpeak Panel, reflecting the U.S. population with a margin of sampling error of plus or minus 3.4 percentage points.
