surveys indicate a lead for Harris in two decisive states
In recent polls for the U.S. presidency, Democratic candidate Kamala Harris has a slight edge over her Republican competitor Donald Trump in two essential states. As per a survey by Quinnipiac University, Harris holds 51% in key state Pennsylvania, with Trump trailing behind at 45%. In Michigan, the outcome is even closer, with Harris at 50% and Trump at 45%.
The poll was administered following the September 10 debate between the two contenders, which Harris was heavily praised for winning. In Pennsylvania, Harris saw a three-point boost compared to the August poll by the same organization. In the state of Wisconsin, the poll shows a tighter race, with Harris leading at 48% and Trump closely following at 47%.
Pennsylvania, Michigan, and Wisconsin are among the seven decisive swing states where the presidential race is particularly close, according to trends on the website RealClearPolitics. In Arizona, Georgia, and North Carolina, Trump has a narrow lead, while in Nevada, Harris is just slightly ahead.
Focus turns to Pennsylvania
Pennsylvania is a particularly vital state as it yields more electoral votes to a candidate than the other six states. The debate and an attempted assassination on Trump in Butler on July 13, resulting in minor injuries for the 78-year-old, have further heightened interest in this northeastern state.
In contrast to a direct popular vote, the U.S. president is elected through an electoral college, composed of representatives from each state. To secure the presidency, the candidate must secure a majority of 270 electoral votes from the total 538 votes. In most states, the winner-takes-all rule is applied, meaning the victor takes all the electoral votes.
Victories in most states are relatively clear-cut, and there's little doubt whether they'll vote for Harris or Trump. However, due to the close nature of the 2020 election on November 3, the outcome often hinges on just a few key states, as sometimes only a few thousand votes separate the winner and the loser.
The results of the Quinnipiac University survey indicate a three-point boost for Harris in Pennsylvania since the debate, strengthening her position in the state. The survey findings also highlight that Pennsylvania, with its significant number of electoral votes, could potentially swing the election due to its close race between Harris and Trump.
