The 2024 presidential election is shaping up to be a thriller, with a new Quinnipiac poll revealing a nail-biting close race between incumbent President Joe Biden and former President Donald Trump.
In a two-party scenario, the poll shows Biden garnering 47% of the vote among registered voters, while Trump trails closely behind with 46%. This statistical tie underscores the deep split in the American electorate, with nearly half of the country favoring each candidate.
The poll throws a curveball by introducing the potential impact of an independent candidate, Robert F. Kennedy Jr. He captures a significant 16% of the vote in a three-party scenario, significantly altering the dynamics of the race. With Kennedy Jr. drawing support from both sides of the aisle, Trump sees his share fall to 38%, while Biden slips to 36%.
Trump maintains a clear advantage within the Republican field, dwarfing the support for other potential contenders. South Carolina Governor Nikki Haley and Florida Governor Ron DeSantis, often mentioned as possible challengers, only manage to secure 11% each. Meanwhile, former New Jersey Governor Chris Christie languishes at the bottom with a mere 3%.
Quinnipiac pollster Tim Malloy says its a virtual dead heat, with Biden receiving 47-percent of support from registered voters and Trump receiving 46-percent.
The poll offers a snapshot of the current political landscape, but much can change in the year leading up to the election. Kennedy Jr.’s emergence as a viable third-party option adds a layer of complexity to the already tight race. Whether he maintains his momentum or fades into the background remains to be seen.
Key Takeaways:
- Biden and Trump in a statistical tie in a two-party race.
- Robert F. Kennedy Jr. emerges as a strong third-party contender.
- GOP hopefuls struggle to gain traction against Trump.
- The coming year promises a highly dynamic and unpredictable election season.