In a significant blow to Kamala Harris, the first major poll since her selection as the Democratic party's vice-presidential candidate has shown a decline in her popularity. The New York Times survey reveals that Donald Trump is now leading Harris by a slim margin of 48 percent to 47 percent among likely voters nationally. This drop in support comes just before a critical televised debate between the two candidates on Tuesday night.

The poll's findings suggest that this decline may signal the end of the vice president's "honeymoon period and euphoric August," according to the New York Times. As a result, Harris now holds a slim lead of 2.5 percent in the overall average of polls and a mere 0.3 percent in the crucial swing state of Pennsylvania. While analysts caution that this poll could be an outlier, it raises concerns within the Harris campaign about the direction of her support.

Following the poll's release, Trump spokesperson Jason Miller confidently declared, "The honeymoon is officially over," in an interview with Politico. Additionally, the survey highlights that 28 percent of likely voters expressed a need for more information about Kamala Harris, whereas only 9 percent said the same about Donald Trump. This finding underscores accusations that Harris lacks clarity in her policy positions.

As both candidates prepare for the upcoming debate, the dynamics of their preparations are quite distinct. Harris is reportedly taking an intense approach, undergoing extensive mock debates with a Trump stand-in, dressed in a characteristic blue suit and long tie, at a hotel in Pittsburgh. Trump, on the other hand, is relying on policy briefings from his aides to refresh his memory and simulate potential questions.

Ahead of the debate, voices from both sides have weighed in on the candidates and their strategies. Pete Buttigieg, the US Transport Secretary, emphasized that Harris must focus on highlighting the differences in visions between herself and Trump, while reminding Americans of the issues they already agree with her on. However, Republican Senator Tom Cotton disparaged Harris as a "San Francisco liberal" and emphasized the importance of candidates' records in shaping the race.

Senior Republicans are cautioning Trump to maintain a disciplined approach during the debate and not engage in personal attacks, as such behavior could backfire. Senator Lindsey Graham penned an op-ed in the New York Times, stating that each day spent trading insults benefits Harris, as it distracts from criticisms of the Biden-Harris administration. Meanwhile, Republican strategist Tricia McLaughlin expressed hope that Trump would remain composed and not feel cornered or outnumbered.

As the debate nears, Trump, who has participated in seven presidential debates, possesses a wealth of experience compared to Harris's sole appearance in a debate during the Democrat candidate race. The challenge now lies with Harris to overcome the perception that she relies on repetitive soundbites rather than conveying a sense of command and authority.

The recent New York Times poll reveals potential cracks in the initial surge of support for Kamala Harris, indicating the need for a more intricate understanding of her policies among voters. The upcoming debate on Tuesday will prove pivotal in determining the trajectory of the race, serving as a critical moment for both candidates to sway undecided voters and solidify their positions.