The poll, carried out online by pollster Scott Rasmussen from October 7 to 10, surveyed 2,945 probable voters nationwide. The results indicate that Harris, the Democratic candidate, is favored by 50% of the respondents, while Trump, the Republican candidate, has the support of 47%.

This marks a small but notable change from last week's poll, where both candidates were tied at 49%. An analysis of the data shows Harris gaining traction, particularly among specific demographic groups.

The polling data reveals distinct gender divides in candidate support. Of those supporting Harris, 45% are male and 55% are female. Conversely, Trump's support base comprises 53% males and 42% females. Age-wise, Harris has garnered more than 50% support in every group except for voters aged 65 and older, where Trump leads with 51% compared to Harris' 46%.

Ethnicity also plays a crucial role in voter preference. Harris is leading significantly among Black voters, capturing 85% of the vote compared to Trump's 14%. She also leads among Hispanic voters with 66% support to Trump's 33%. However, Trump holds an advantage among white voters, leading with 55% to Harris' 42%.

When "leaners" are excluded from the data, Harris' lead narrows slightly to a two-percentage-point margin, with 49% support compared to Trump's 47%. The margin of error for this poll stands at plus or minus 1.8 percentage points.

Trump's campaign spokesperson, Steven Cheung, responded to the poll results by asserting that Trump is outperforming Harris in battleground states. Cheung attributed this to what he described as the failure of Harris' policies, citing issues like inflation, border security, and crime.

As the election approaches, most polls suggest a tightly contested race between the major party candidates. Though national polls provide a snapshot of voter sentiment, the election's outcome will depend on results in individual states and their Electoral College votes.

In critical battleground states such as Pennsylvania, Nevada, Michigan, North Carolina, Wisconsin, Georgia, and Arizona, polls show an almost even split between Trump and Harris, often with margins shifting daily within 1%. Securing 270 Electoral College votes remains the key for either candidate to win the presidency, as demonstrated by the 2016 election outcome.