Republican primary in Iowa approaches with just a month left, former President Donald Trump and incumbent Joe Biden seem poised for a likely rematch. However, a recent poll reveals growing discontent toward both candidates.
According to a survey by the Associated Press and NORC Center for Public Affairs Research, a majority of the public expresses either some dissatisfaction or strong dissatisfaction with both Biden and Trump. The poll, conducted between Nov. 30 and Dec. 4, 2023, with 1,074 adults, indicates that 58% would be dissatisfied if Trump secures the Republican nomination, while 56% express dissatisfaction with Biden’s candidacy.
In terms of favorability, Biden leads with 42% support, followed by independent candidate Robert F. Kennedy Jr. with 38%, and Trump with 36%. Florida Governor Ron DeSantis and former South Carolina Governor Nikki Haley each have a 28% favorability rating.
Biden’s favorability among Democrats stands at 78%, compared to Trump’s 70% favorability among Republicans. Confidence in both parties’ selection processes for their nominees is low, with 52% lacking confidence in the GOP process and 47% expressing the same about the Democratic process.
The poll also indicates skepticism about the accuracy of either party’s primaries or caucuses. FiveThirtyEight’s data, compiled from multiple polls, shows Trump leading the GOP primary with 62% support, followed by DeSantis at 12.3%. Biden holds strong support among Democratic voters, with 65.6%.
The dissatisfaction with Trump may stem, in part, from facing 91 indictments across four criminal cases. Some voters express disappointment in the limited presidential choices, with one stating, “We’re down to the lesser of two evils.”
Biden faces criticism over his age, economic policy (Bidenomics), and foreign policy, particularly in handling the Russia-Ukraine war and the Israel-Hamas conflict. Despite these challenges, the economy has shown resilience, with the stock market rebounding in 2023.
The SPDR S&P 500 ETF Trust, an exchange-traded fund tracking the S&P 500, has gained about 25% this year, reaching a record high. The economy’s positive performance contrasts with concerns over interest rate hikes to combat inflation.
In summary, both Trump and Biden face significant dissatisfaction among the public, and the upcoming primary will be closely watched amid ongoing challenges and controversies surrounding the candidates.
