A recent poll conducted by YouGov for Betfair has unveiled unexpected trends in British opinions regarding the upcoming US presidential election. The survey, released on September 30, 2024, indicates a significant shift in support for Donald Trump among UK residents, particularly young adults.
The poll reveals that 32% of British voters aged 18-24 would support Trump if given the opportunity to vote in the US election. This marks a threefold increase compared to similar polling conducted prior to the 2020 election. In contrast, only 16% of those over 65 expressed support for the former president, highlighting a generational divide in political preferences.
Overall, British support for Trump has nearly doubled in the past four years, with one in five UK residents now indicating they would vote for him. This surge is particularly notable in London, where Trump's backing has almost tripled from 12% to 31% since 2020.
Despite Trump's growing popularity, Vice President Kamala Harris remains the clear favorite among British respondents. The survey shows that 60% of UK residents would vote for her if given the chance. This stark contrast between British and American preferences is noteworthy, as some US polls indicate only a marginal 3% lead for Harris over Trump.
It's important to note that while Trump has seen a significant increase in support, the Democratic candidate has not experienced a similar surge. Harris' current backing is only 13 percentage points higher than Joe Biden's 47% rating in the UK before the 2020 election.
Trump's connection to Britain may play a role in his increased popularity. He has frequently expressed fondness for the country and owns a golf course in Scotland, the birthplace of his mother, Mary Trump, who emigrated to the US.
"The surge in Trump's popularity among young British voters is a fascinating development. It challenges conventional wisdom and highlights the complex nature of international political perceptions."
As the US presidential election approaches, scheduled for approximately one month from now, these poll results offer an intriguing glimpse into British perspectives on American politics. While not directly impacting the outcome, they reflect the global interest and potential influence of US elections.
It's crucial to remember that the US presidential election utilizes the Electoral College system, not the popular vote, to determine the winner. Additionally, voter turnout in US presidential elections typically ranges from 50% to 60% of eligible voters, underscoring the importance of civic engagement in the democratic process.
As the campaign enters its final stages, both candidates will likely participate in presidential debates, a significant aspect of US election campaigns. The outcome of this election will have far-reaching implications, not only for the United States but for its allies and the global community as a whole.