In a recent national poll conducted by USA Today/Suffolk University, former President Donald Trump has taken the lead over President Joe Biden in a potential 2024 election rematch. The survey, which was conducted in the aftermath of last week's presidential debate, reveals that Trump stands at 41% support, while Biden trails at 38% among registered voters nationwide.

This marks a significant shift from the previous USA Today/Suffolk University poll conducted in May, where both candidates were tied at 37%. The rough performance by Biden during the face-to-face showdown between the two major party contenders appears to have had an impact on the public's perception.

However, it is important to note that Trump's advantage falls within the poll's margin of error of plus or minus 3.1 percentage points, indicating a tight contest. Nevertheless, there are warning signs for Biden as 41% of Democrats surveyed expressed a desire to see him replaced at the top of the Democratic Party ticket.

Biden's stumbling answers and halting delivery during the debate have sparked panic within the Democratic Party, leading to calls from political pundits, editorial writers, and some party politicians and donors for him to step aside as the party's 2024 standard-bearer. The pressure mounts on the incumbent, who at 81 years old, is already the oldest president in the nation's history.

The survey also reveals a shift in voter preferences for third-party or independent candidates. Trump now leads Biden 25% to 17% as the second choice for those currently backing these candidates, a reversal from late last year when Biden held the edge.

Furthermore, Trump's supporters display significantly higher enthusiasm, with 59% expressing excitement about their candidate, compared to only 29% among Biden backers. This enthusiasm gap could prove consequential in motivating supporters to turn out and vote in the upcoming election.

David Paleologos, director of the Suffolk Political Research Center, highlighted the impact of the debate, stating, "There's no question the debate sent out shockwaves across the political landscape." He also noted that Democrats in the poll were offering "tough love" to Biden, urging him to reflect on his performance and consider stepping aside.

As the 2024 election race continues to unfold, these poll results indicate the need for both candidates to address concerns and strategize to secure support from their respective parties and undecided voters. The upcoming months will undoubtedly shape the path towards the next presidential contest.