CBS News Survey: Haley Surges in New Hampshire, Trump Holds Strong Grip in Iowa

While Donald Trump leads New Hampshire, Nikki Haley has emerged as the dominant alternative, attracting non-Trump voters. Haley is the most “likable” and “reasonable” candidate, and she fights Trump for “preparedness.” Haley is becoming the best Trump challenger by emphasizing electability.

CBS News Poll (Photo: CBS News)

Iowa Favors Trump’s Leadership; New Hampshire Leans Toward Haley. Contrasting Voter Priorities and Conservative Trends

Trump has strengthened his advantage in Iowa, where prospective caucus-goers see him as a “strong leader” embracing “Iowa values.” Many voters support MAGA, which boosts his popularity. In New Hampshire, where Trump leads by double digits, he lacks likability and rationality. Although Trump is a “strong leader” and appears to have defeated Joe Biden, Trump and non-Trump voters have different candidate choices.

The latest CBS News poll shows Donald Trump leading New Hampshire. At the same time, Nikki Haley is the top alternative, garnering support from non-Trump voters. Haley is the most electable challenger due to her likability, rationality, and competitiveness. Trump’s strong leadership and Iowa values helped him prevail in Iowa. Despite his double-digit New Hampshire lead, Trump lacks likability and reasonableness. The state’s moderate electorate supports Haley, who is the most unlike Trump.

Socially conservative elements, including gender identity medical treatment bans, dominate these states’ cultures. Mass deportations are widespread in both states, especially among Trump voters, despite their differing views on abortion. Chris Christie is another candidate with low ratings and a long shot against Joe Biden.

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Trump’s Growing Lead in Iowa and Delegate Prospects in New Hampshire: Dynamics, MAGA Influence, and the Haley Factor

Since September, Trump’s lead in Iowa has grown. Most likely, caucus-goers only consider Trump, and the percentage has increased. Trump supporters see him as representing Iowa values, and Iowa Republicans are more “MAGA” than New Hampshire Republicans.

The majority of Iowa Republican voters, considering Trump, believe his administration has improved the country, showing support. Despite spending time in the state, Ron DeSantis has won little, and Trump remains dominant. Trump may win 9–16 delegates in New Hampshire and a majority in Iowa. Nikki Haley may get 5-8 representatives in New Hampshire, while DeSantis and Christie are near 10%.

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