A recent poll conducted by the University of New Hampshire reveals that Maine voters are divided on whether they feel better off financially compared to one year ago. The survey of 821 residents showed that 49% of respondents feel worse about the economy, with political affiliation playing a significant role in these views. Republicans are more likely to feel worse about the economy compared to Democrats.
Director of the University of New Hampshire Survey Center, Andrew Smith, noted that views of the economy are increasingly influenced by political beliefs. The upcoming presidential election in November is expected to heavily feature discussions about the economy and the candidates’ proposed policies.
In a separate poll, Vice President Kamala Harris leads former President Donald Trump among Maine voters, with Harris’s margin growing from July to August. However, nationally, the race remains close, with battleground states like Michigan, Pennsylvania, and Wisconsin potentially determining the outcome.
Despite positive economic indicators at a national level, many Mainers are still struggling with affordability issues. Respondents cited housing, cost of living, and jobs/economy as the most pressing problems facing the state. Additionally, a majority of those surveyed expressed concerns about a possible recession in the next 12 months.
Smith noted that economic attitudes may shift leading up to the election, but there is often a lag in consumer sentiment. Factors like interest rate changes by the Federal Reserve may not significantly impact voter perceptions. Overall, the economic outlook of Maine voters remains a significant factor in the upcoming presidential election.
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