A recent ABC News/Ipsos poll indicates that approximately half of Americans think former President Donald Trump should end his presidential campaign, following his conviction on 34 felony counts of falsifying business documents. This historic verdict marks the first time a former U.S. president has been convicted of a crime. Despite appealing the ruling, the poll shows that 50 percent of respondents agree with the jury’s decision, while 49 percent believe Trump should withdraw from the 2024 presidential race.
Public Opinion on Trump’s Verdict and Campaign
The poll reveals a deeply divided nation:
- Correct Verdict: 50 percent of respondents believe the guilty verdict was correct.
- Campaign End: 49 percent think Trump should immediately drop out of the presidential race.
- Political Motivation: 47 percent of respondents agree with Trump’s assertion that the charges are politically motivated.
Impact on Favorability and Voting Blocs
Interestingly, Trump’s favorability ratings have remained stable, with 31 percent of Americans holding a favorable view of him both before and after the conviction. However, the poll highlights significant partisan differences:
- Republicans: Only 18 percent agree with the guilty verdict.
- Democrats: A substantial 83 percent agree with the verdict.
- Independents: This crucial voting bloc shows 52 percent agreement with the guilty verdict.
Charges and Allegations
The charges against Trump are connected to hush money payments made prior to the 2016 election, aimed at covering up alleged affairs with an adult film star. The case has been contentious, with 51 percent of respondents believing Trump intentionally committed wrongdoing, while 12 percent think he did something wrong unintentionally.
Biden’s Popularity and Polling Dynamics
The poll also touches on President Joe Biden’s approval rating, which stands at 32 percent, slightly lower than Trump’s. In terms of head-to-head competition, Trump leads Biden by about 1 percentage point in The Hill/Decision Desk HQ average of polls. However, since the conviction, Biden has gained ground, leading Trump in most polls conducted after the verdict.
Conclusion
The poll underscores the polarization in American politics, with significant divisions along partisan lines regarding Trump’s conviction and his future in the presidential race. As the 2024 election approaches, these dynamics will likely play a crucial role in shaping the campaign strategies of both parties.
