A stunning new poll finds that former President Donald Trump has edged ahead of President Joe Biden in New Jersey, setting the stage for a potentially competitive race in a traditionally Democratic stronghold.
According to data from Project 538, Trump holds a slim lead over Biden by one percentage point, garnering 41% of support compared to Biden’s 40%. The survey, conducted on June 26-27 by the relatively lesser-known independent firm co/efficient based in Kansas City, has drawn attention for its implications on the upcoming presidential race.
The poll results come on the heels of the heated first presidential debate between Trump and Biden, aired on CNN on Thursday. Following the debate, a substantial majority of registered voters opined that Trump had outperformed Biden. A CNN poll revealed that 67% of respondents believed Trump had the edge, contrasting with 33% who favored Biden’s performance.
Looking ahead, Trump is expected to officially secure the Republican nomination at the upcoming Republican National Convention in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, scheduled for July. Meanwhile, Biden is anticipated to formally clinch the Democratic nomination in August during the Democratic National Convention. However, in the aftermath of the recent debate, there has been mounting pressure from various quarters, including politicians and media outlets, calling for Biden to consider stepping down as the Democratic candidate.
Should Biden decide to step aside or face a challenge at the convention, several potential scenarios could unfold, depending on the timing and circumstances. U.S. If Biden were to delay resignation until after his nomination in August, the responsibility of selecting an alternative candidate would fall to the Democratic National Committee.