According to a new poll conducted by CNN in partnership with the University of New Hampshire (UNH), the Republican presidential primary race in New Hampshire appears to be firmly in the control of former President Donald Trump. Following his 30-point victory in the Iowa caucuses last week, Trump maintains a significant lead, with 50% support among likely Republican voters in the Granite State. Her closest competitor, former South Carolina governor Nikki Haley, is at 39%.
++ Trump seeks ‘absolute immunity’ for US president
Both candidates have increased their support since the last CNN/UNH poll, conducted in early January, when Trump held 39% to Haley’s 32%. This rise came amid a narrowing field of leading candidates.
++ Trump expels man who interrupted his speech during rally in New Hampshire
Despite Haley’s notable gains since late last summer, the gap between her and Trump has again grown to double digits. New Hampshire has historically been seen as a primary jumping-off point, offering a possible opportunity to challenge Trump’s bid for the Republican Party’s third consecutive presidential nomination
However, research indicates that Trump’s popularity within the Republican base and the engagement of his supporters outweigh the appeal of his opponents. While Haley won over groups such as “undeclared” voters and moderates, who represent minorities within the Republican electorate, Trump has largely consolidated support among majority segments such as registered Republicans, conservatives and those without a college degree. The poll finds that with the primaries just days away, about 1 in 5 likely Republican voters have not yet decided on their choice, with the majority of that group supporting Haley. Overall, Republican primary voters in New Hampshire believe Trump is likely to win on Tuesday, and a majority express satisfaction or excitement at the prospect of his presidential nomination.
