Trump closes off alternative lanes for opponents as he dominates all demographics in Iowa: Poll
December 11, 2023 08:47 AM
Former President Donald Trump is closing off alternative lanes for his opponents in Iowa, with the support of more than half of likely Republican caucusgoers as he defeats primary competitors in every demographic.
In the latest Des Moines Register/NBC News/Mediacom Iowa Poll, Trump improved his stature in the state from 43% to 51%, which pollster J. Ann Selzer noted was a “commanding” lead for the former president.
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“Trump’s competitive position has improved markedly,” she said.
Among men who are 65 and older, Trump significantly outperforms his opponents with 66%. He garnered the same share with white men who did not have a college degree.
In the broader group of likely Republican caucusgoers without degrees, Trump won 61% of the group. This share was also seen among those who made less than $50,000.
Not only does Trump lead other Republican candidates with Iowans who say they’re Republicans, but he also bests his opponents with independents.
Each age demographic opted for Trump over his Republican counterparts as well.
The former president was again the top choice among first-time caucusgoers. In October, Trump boasted 49% of this group. Now, 63% are planning to caucus for him.
“The field may have shrunk, but it may have made Donald Trump even stronger than he was,” according to Selzer. This contradicts the school of thought that suggested a narrowing Republican field would result in the consolidation of the non-Trump vote, allowing it to compete directly with him.
“I would call his lead commanding at this point. There’s not much benefit of fewer candidates for either Ron DeSantis or Nikki Haley,” she added.
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Trump’s 32-point lead also boosted his overall footprint, putting him in an unrivaled first place. Seventy-six percent of likely Republican caucusgoers say Trump is either their first or second choice, or they are actively considering him. Gov. Ron DeSantis (R-FL) is no longer tied with the former president, posting 67%, much of which is composed of those who say he is their second choice. Former United Nations Ambassador Nikki Haley has a 52% footprint, with the largest margin being those who say they are still considering her.
Trump’s expanded lead in every key area comes with five weeks until the Iowa Republican caucuses, which are the first in the nation.