New CBS poll shows Trump and Harris neck-and-neck in key battlegrounds

Investing.com --  A recent CBS News poll flags a fiercely competitive race between Democratic nominee Kamala Harris and former President Donald Trump, with both candidates effectively tied across crucial battleground states. 

As the Democratic National Convention approaches, the poll reveals a close contest nationally, with Harris holding a narrow 3-point lead over Trump.

The CBS poll underscores the tightness of the race, with both Harris and Trump vying for control in states that will be pivotal in determining the next president. 

The poll indicates that in these key battleground states, the race is essentially a dead heat, reflecting the intense and evenly matched political environment.

Gender gap and voter enthusiasm

One of the features of the poll is the pronounced gender gap. Women voters are showing more support for Harris compared to Trump, with many perceiving Harris as a candidate who "fights for people like you." This shift in voter enthusiasm has contributed to a more competitive national landscape for Harris.

Conversely, Trump continues to leverage his strengths on issues like the economy. He maintains an advantage among voters who prioritize economic concerns and those who feel they are struggling financially. 

However, Harris has managed to make notable gains among women regarding economic issues, narrowing the gap compared to the previous administration's performance.

Key issues: Abortion and the economy

Abortion remains a central issue for many Democratic voters, with Harris receiving higher support than Biden did among those who favor legal abortion. 

The poll shows that a majority of voters believe Harris would work to pass a national law protecting abortion rights and support access to mifepristone, a critical medication for abortion.

In terms of economic issues, Harris is making headway, though Trump still leads in perceptions of being able to address inflation and lower grocery prices. Harris’ recent policy proposals on inflation may influence these perceptions, but as of now, Trump benefits from general confidence in his economic stewardship.

The role of the convention

As Harris and the Democrats head into their convention, defining Harris’ message will be crucial. About a third of voters are still unclear about Harris' stance on various issues, flagging the need for the convention to clarify her platform and differentiate her from Biden’s administration.

With Trump’s long standing advantage in border policy and his continued strong position among voters prioritizing border issues, Harris faces a challenge in reshaping perceptions and securing her base's enthusiasm.