New polls indicate that President Joe Biden is currently outpacing former President Donald Trump in popularity among younger voters. The gap between the two candidates in the 18-29 age group is a significant 25 points.
The survey, a collaboration between Yahoo News and YouGov, shows Biden pulling ahead particularly after Trump’s recent conviction in New York City on multiple felony charges. Trump was found guilty on 34 counts related to falsification of documents involving hush money paid to adult film actress Stormy Daniels, who alleges an encounter with Trump in 2006—a claim the former president denies vehemently, asserting the case is politically motivated. His legal team intends to appeal the ruling.
Trump’s sentencing is scheduled for July 11th, and the extent of the punishment will be determined by Judge Juan Merchan. Trump may appeal for release on recognizance or post bail to avoid immediate jail time while awaiting an appeal.
The Yahoo/YouGov poll, conducted from June 3-6 among 1,854 U.S. residents, initially showed Biden in a slender lead which widened significantly when data was segmented by age.
A key focus of the candidates’ campaigns, besides policy disputes, has been age disparity. At 81, Biden and 77-year-old Trump trade accusations of inadequacy, each vying for youth support.
In a hypothetical election tomorrow, 55% of 18-29 year-olds would opt for Biden compared to 30% for Trump. In a two-way choice, Trump also fares better with older voters, securing 52% support from those over 65 to Biden’s 42%.
The poll shows 44% of respondents across age groups would favor Trump over Biden in a direct matchup. However, introducing independent candidate Robert F. Kennedy Jr. alters these numbers, with Trump at 43% and Biden at 42%—a one-point dip for Trump and a four-point drop for Biden.
Previous Yahoo/YouGov surveys have historically shown Trump either leading or neck and neck with Biden in public opinion. Various polls disagree on whether Trump’s felony convictions will bolster or harm his election prospects.