Vice President Kamala Harris has gained significant momentum in the 2024 presidential race, now ahead of former President Donald Trump by five points, according to a new NBC News poll.
Conducted from September 13-17, the poll shows Harris ahead with 49% support among registered voters, compared to Trump’s 44%.
Harris’ popularity has seen a remarkable 16-point jump since July, marking one of the largest surges in NBC News polling history, NBC News maintains.
The rise comes in the wake of President Joe Biden’s withdrawal from the race in July, which initially had Trump leading. Harris is now viewed as more competent, mentally fit, and representative of change—key factors driving her ascent.
Despite her gains, Trump maintains solid leads on key issues such as the economy and inflation. Voters continue to cite the cost of living as their top concern, with two-thirds saying their family income is falling behind.
Trump leads Harris by nine points on handling the economy and eight points on inflation, although his leads in these areas have shrunk since Biden was still in the race.
A critical factor in the election is the theme of “change,” with Harris leading Trump by nine points on who better represents a fresh direction for the country. However, voters remain deeply divided. While 65% believe the US is on the wrong track, 40% worry Harris will continue Biden’s policies, while 39% fear Trump will revert to his previous governing style.
Demographically, Harris performs well among Black voters, women, and younger voters, while Trump leads among men, white voters, and those without college degrees. With 71% of voters having made up their minds, the race remains tightly contested, mirroring the polarization seen in 2020.