Former President Donald Trump holds a significant edge over Vice President Kamala Harris in handling major international conflicts, according to a Wall Street Journal (WSJ) poll of voters in seven critical battleground states that could determine the 2024 presidential election.

The poll, released Friday, shows Trump ahead in foreign policy, particularly in the management of two key global conflicts. A total of 50 per cent of voters in these states believe Trump is better equipped to handle the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war, while 39 per cent back Harris on the issue. In the Israel-Hamas conflict, Trump maintains a similar advantage, with 48 per cent of respondents favoring his approach compared to 33 per cent for Harris.

The survey also reveals a tight overall race between Trump and Harris in these battleground states, which include Arizona, Georgia, Michigan, Nevada, Pennsylvania, North Carolina, and Wisconsin. Both candidates are tied in overall support across the seven states, with Harris leading by a narrow margin of 2 percentage points in Arizona, Georgia, and Michigan. Trump, meanwhile, has a six-point advantage in Nevada and a one-point lead in Pennsylvania. The two candidates are deadlocked in North Carolina and Wisconsin.

The WSJ poll, conducted between September 28 and October 8, surveyed 600 registered voters in each of the seven states, with a margin of error of 4 percentage points per state.

The close results reflect other recent national polls, indicating a highly competitive race ahead of the November 5, 2024 election. Earlier this week, a Reuters/Ipsos poll showed Harris with a slight lead over Trump nationally, garnering 46 per cent support compared to Trump’s 43 per cent.

While Trump’s strength lies in his perceived ability to manage international conflicts, particularly in foreign policy and security matters, he is also favoured on key domestic issues such as the economy and immigration. Harris, on the other hand, is seen as stronger on social issues, with more voters supporting her positions on housing, healthcare, and social welfare.

As both candidates focus on the swing states, the fight for these key regions is expected to be crucial in determining the outcome of the 2024 presidential election. The battle for voters in these pivotal states could ultimately decide the next occupant of the White House.

(With Reuters inputs)