Overview: A CNN poll conducted after the presidential debate between Donald Trump and Kamala Harris revealed that Trump’s trust rating on the economy rose by four points, from a 16% lead before the debate to a 20% lead afterward. This comes amid growing concerns among voters about inflation and economic stability.
Why It Matters: Economic stability is a top priority for voters, and increasing trust in Trump’s economic policies suggests a shift in public opinion that could shape the upcoming election.
Who It Impacts: The American electorate, especially those concerned with inflation, jobs, and overall economic recovery, will be directly affected by the candidates’ economic policies.
A new CNN poll taken immediately after the presidential debate between former President Donald Trump and Vice President Kamala Harris shows a significant rise in trust for Trump’s handling of the economy. The poll, conducted among debate viewers, found that Trump’s lead over Harris on economic matters grew from 16 points before the debate to 20 points afterward. This increase comes as voters continue to rank the economy as the most critical issue in the upcoming election.
CNN political director David Chalian explained the results during the network’s post-debate analysis, emphasizing that the poll reflected the opinions of debate watchers rather than the general population. However, Chalian noted that the partisan breakdown of the poll closely mirrored the overall registered voter population in the country, providing insights into how debate performance could sway opinions on key issues like the economy.
Before the debate, Trump led Harris on the economy with a margin of 53% to 37%. Following the debate, that lead grew to 55% to 35%. During the event, Trump highlighted inflation as a key issue, referring to it as a “country buster” that has devastated the nation’s economy. He promised to cut taxes and rebuild the economy, reminding viewers of his economic achievements during his previous administration. “We had the greatest economy,” Trump stated, reiterating his confidence in his ability to revive economic growth.
CNN: More voters trust Trump on the economy AFTER watching the debate. pic.twitter.com/TbnCGBi8AM
— Trump War Room (@TrumpWarRoom) September 11, 2024
Economic concerns have dominated political discourse for months, with multiple polls underscoring its importance to voters. For example, a CBS News poll in September found that 80% of adults considered the economy a major factor in their voting decisions, far surpassing other issues like abortion and climate change. Similarly, an Economist/YouGov poll from August showed that 73% of respondents rated jobs and the economy as their top concerns, outpacing other issues by a significant margin.
Inflation, in particular, has been at the forefront of voters’ minds. A July 2024 survey by Statista found that inflation and rising prices were the most important issues for 25% of Americans. The persistent impact of inflation on everyday life, from the price of groceries to the cost of gas, has made it a central topic in political debates and campaign speeches. A report from Data For Progress indicated that inflation consistently ranked as the top issue for voters from mid-2023 to early 2024, underscoring its importance as the election draws near.
The rising trust in Trump’s economic plans reflects the electorate’s frustration with current economic conditions, particularly under the Biden administration. Many voters are looking for leadership that can address inflation and restore financial stability. Trump’s growing lead on the economy suggests that his message is resonating with a significant portion of the electorate, particularly those most affected by rising prices and stagnant wages.
Economic issues will likely remain a decisive factor in the upcoming election, with voters keenly focused on which candidate can offer the best solutions for inflation and economic growth. Trump’s promises to cut taxes and revive the economy may continue to bolster his support among voters who feel left behind by current economic policies. For these voters, the ability to restore economic prosperity is not just a campaign promise but a necessity for their future well-being.
