As the 2024 presidential race heats up, new polling reveals that former President Donald Trump holds a significant advantage over Vice President Kamala Harris on handling the economy, a key issue for voters. According to a Gallup poll, 54% of Americans believe Trump is more capable of managing the economy, compared to 45% who favor Harris. With the economy ranking as the most important issue for Republicans and voters overall, this 9-point lead could prove critical as the election approaches.

Veteran Democratic strategist Hank Sheinkopf weighed in on the poll results, suggesting that while Democrats are confident in Harris’ economic plan, the general public remains unconvinced. “Independents are looking for a reason to vote for a candidate, but they just haven’t found it yet,” Sheinkopf told Fox News Digital. “This time it’s their pockets. And they are still feeling pain no matter what candidates say. Time is running out for Harris to prove she can make it better.”

The poll highlights a significant divide between voter priorities. For Republicans, the top issues are the economy, followed by immigration, terrorism, national security, crime, and taxes. Democrats, however, prioritize democracy, Supreme Court appointments, abortion, healthcare, and education. Despite Harris trailing Trump on the economy and immigration (54%-45%) and foreign affairs (52%-47%), she maintains an edge on traditionally Democratic issues like healthcare (54%-44%), abortion (56%-40%), and climate change (61%-35%).

Although Trump leads Harris on key economic and security issues, a recent New York Times/Siena College survey released Tuesday suggests a closer race. That survey found Harris leading Trump by a narrow margin, with 49% of likely voters supporting her compared to 46% for Trump, and Harris maintaining a slim edge in a multi-candidate field.

(YWN World Headquarters – NYC)