A recent poll conducted by the University of New Hampshire Survey Center suggests that former President Donald Trump’s significant lead over his GOP rivals in the state’s primary may be diminishing. As the first primary and second overall contest in the Republican presidential nominating calendar, the New Hampshire primary is closely watched by political analysts and enthusiasts alike.
New Hampshire Poll Results:
The poll reveals that Trump currently enjoys the support of 37% of likely Republican presidential primary voters in the Granite State. However, Florida Governor Ron DeSantis is trailing closely at 23%, with the rest of the candidates polling in single digits. Trump’s lead over DeSantis has reduced from 20 points to 14 points since the last UNH poll conducted in April, just before DeSantis announced his candidacy.
Comparison with Other Polls:
Interestingly, this poll shows a smaller lead for Trump compared to recent surveys from other organizations, which indicated a more significant polling advantage for the former president over DeSantis and the other contenders.
Contenders’ Standings:
Apart from DeSantis and Trump, other candidates in the poll include Senator Tim Scott of South Carolina at 8%, former New Jersey Governor Chris Christie and North Dakota Governor Doug Burgum at 6% each, and former U.N. Ambassador Nikki Haley and entrepreneur Vivek Ramaswamy both at 5%. All other candidates are polling at 1% or less.
Trump and DeSantis in New Hampshire:
Both Trump and DeSantis have been actively campaigning in New Hampshire. Trump has made four visits to the state this year, while DeSantis has also been engaging with voters and holding events, including two Independence Day parades. The competition between the two candidates has been intense, with each attempting to rally their respective bases.
Impact of the Poll:
The poll’s results are critical in assessing the dynamics of the 2024 GOP Presidential Nomination Race. With only 35% of likely Republican voters having made up their minds on their preferred candidate, there is still much uncertainty. However, among Trump supporters, a significant 76% have already made their decision. The survey was conducted before the recent news that Trump is a target of investigation related to the January 6, 2021, attack on the U.S. Capitol and election overturn attempts.
The narrowing lead in the New Hampshire primary poll comes as no surprise, considering the competitive landscape of the 2024 GOP Presidential Nomination Race. Both Trump and DeSantis have established themselves as prominent contenders, with loyal followings and significant resources to mount their campaigns.
Trump’s multiple visits to New Hampshire demonstrate his commitment to maintaining his strong base of support in the state. However, DeSantis has also been making strides in connecting with voters, especially during his Independence Day parade appearances. The intense competition between the two candidates has garnered significant media attention, further fueling interest in the upcoming primaries.
As the race progresses, other candidates like Senator Tim Scott, former Governor Chris Christie, and Governor Doug Burgum will likely intensify their efforts to gain traction and secure vital endorsements. The impact of the poll’s results extends beyond New Hampshire. As one of the early primary states, its outcome often sets the tone for subsequent contests, influencing fundraising efforts and determining which candidates gain momentum.
In conclusion, the New Hampshire primary poll signals a tightening race between Trump and DeSantis, setting the stage for an exciting and closely contested GOP Presidential Nomination Race in 2024. As the primary season unfolds, voters and pundits alike will closely scrutinize the candidates’ performances and policy positions, making every campaign move critical in securing the party’s nomination.
