US Election 2024: Kamala Harris pulls ahead after fiery debate with Donald Trump; Is the 2024 election now hers to lose?

Vice President Kamala Harris has gained a lead over former President Donald Trump following their recent debate in Philadelphia. A new Reuters/Ipsos poll conducted shortly after the debate shows Harris with 47% support compared to Trump's 42%.

The debate featured sharp exchanges and personal attacks. Harris questioned Trump's fitness for office and brought up his legal issues. According to the poll, 53% of voters believe Harris outperformed Trump, while 24% sided with Trump. A CNN flash poll indicated 60% of viewers felt Harris dominated the stage.

Pundits have declared Harris the winner of the debate. Reuters reports that Harris "put Trump on the defensive with a barrage of attacks on his record and legal woes," a view supported by 52% of poll respondents who felt Trump struggled to keep up.


Previously, a New York Times/Siena College poll showed Harris trailing Trump by one point, with Trump at 48% and Harris at 47%. The new poll marks a shift in Harris' favor.

Despite the positive numbers for Harris, the race remains tight, especially in battleground states like Pennsylvania, Georgia, and Wisconsin. National polls offer only a snapshot of the larger contest for electoral votes.

Harris' campaign has challenged Trump to a second debate. “Vice President Harris is ready for round two. Is Donald Trump?” her team asked in a post-debate statement. Trump has not confirmed if he would participate but is considering the possibility.

The next major political event will be a debate between vice presidential nominees Senator JD Vance and Governor Tim Walz, scheduled for October 1.