In the latest CNN poll conducted by the University of New Hampshire, former President Donald Trump has strengthened his lead in the competition for the New Hampshire Republican presidential primary.
Following his decisive 30-point victory in Iowa’s caucuses last week, Trump now commands 50% support among likely Republican primary voters in the Granite State. His closest rival, former South Carolina Gov. Nikki Haley, trails with 39%.
Both candidates have seen an increase in support since the last CNN/UNH poll in early January, where Trump held 39% compared to Haley’s 32%. The field of major contenders has narrowed from six candidates to three.
While both Trump and Haley have reached their highest levels of support in UNH polling on the race since 2021, Haley’s significant gains since late last summer have not closed the gap, and Trump’s lead has widened once again to double digits.
Florida Governor Ron DeSantis, who led in UNH’s polling in early 2023 but has scaled back his efforts in the state, stands at just 6% in the poll, falling below the 10% minimum support required to win delegates according to Republican Party rules.
Despite New Hampshire being considered a potential stumbling block for Trump in his bid for a third consecutive GOP presidential nomination, this latest survey indicates that his popularity within the GOP base and the commitment of his supporters outweigh the appeal of his challengers.
Haley, who has aimed to capitalize on New Hampshire’s traditional independent streak and more moderate pool of likely primary voters, has made significant inroads. She holds 58% support among registered undeclared voters planning to participate in the GOP primary and 71% support among ideologically moderate voters. Additionally, she leads Trump among voters with college degrees.
However, Trump has consolidated his support among registered Republicans, conservatives, and those without college degrees. A significant majority of Trump’s supporters have firmly decided to back him, giving him a substantial edge over Haley.
As the primary approaches, about 1 in 5 likely Republican primary voters have not yet finalized their choice, with a majority currently leaning towards Haley. Despite this, the broader sentiment among likely Republican primary voters in New Hampshire suggests an expectation that Trump will emerge victorious on Tuesday.
Moreover, Trump maintains a more favorable view within the primary electorate compared to Haley and DeSantis. A majority of voters express enthusiasm or satisfaction at the prospect of Trump becoming the party’s presidential nominee.
Source: Saharareporters