Donald Trump has a slight advantage over Joe Biden in seven swing states (AZ, GA, MI, NC, NV, PA, WI), according to a new Wall Street Journal poll. The poll also found voters are concerned about the economy, believing that Trump can handle the issue better than Biden by a 20-point margin.
By The Numbers:
Trump leads Biden by six points in NC (49-43%); five points in AZ (47-42%); four points in NV (48-44%); three points in MI and PA (48-45% and 47-44%); one point in GA (44-43%) and is tied in WI at 46%.
When asked who is better at handling issues, Trump wins on the economy and immigration, each by 20 points, while Biden leads on abortion by twelve. More voters believe Trump (48%) has the mental and physical fitness needed to be president compared to Biden (28%).
Even more interesting is where persuadable voters–those who are truly up for grabs by either candidate. More persuadable voters have negative view of the economy (74%) than all voters do (63%).
The Bottom Line: While economic mood and growth have shown modest improvement over the last several months, this hasn’t yet changed the dynamic at the kitchen table or grocery. Voters–especially those that will decide the election in key swing states–will likely prefer the candidate who doesn’t just appear strong on the issue but is willing to say there’s a problem. Biden’s team has spent months trying to land their economic message. It hasn’t worked so Trump has the advantage today as a result.
