Polls conducted by the Reuters/Ipsos States of the Nation project show a narrowing margin between Hillary Clinton and Republican rival Donald Trump. In North Carolina and Florida, the candidates are virtually tied, and the traditionally blue state of Michigan has become too close to call.
Polling averages now show Clinton with a narrow two- or three-point lead, down from a four- to seven-point lead last week.
To win the election, Trump must defeat Clinton in both Florida and North Carolina. Clinton, however, could lose both states and still win.
Compared with last week, the new Reuters/Ipsos poll showed support for Trump growing in 24 states and shrinking in 11. Support for Clinton grew in 13 states, while dwindling in 22.
Early-voting results in the key state of Florida show Clinton leading, but by a significantly smaller margin than President Obama during the 2012 election season. Clinton leads Trump by eight points, while Obama led Republican opponent Mitt Romney by 15 points.
In Ohio, early voting shows Clinton with a 20-point lead. Obama led by 30 points in 2012.
While the Democratic candidate remains favored to win, the narrowing margin in the final days was unexpected, and could likely be attributed to FBI director James Comey’s announcement last Friday that his agency was examining newly-discovered Clinton emails.
Comey was criticized from both sides of the aisle for the last-minute announcement, as it could potentially affect the election.
Polling site Real Clear Politics showed Trump gaining on Wednesday, with a margin of two points. By Friday, however, Trump’s steam had decreased, coming in at 42.8, to Clinton’s 45.1.
A New York Times/CBS poll showed Clinton with 45-percent support among likely voters, while Trump has 42 percent.
In just four tensely-anticipated days, American voters will learn who the next US president is, and the political pollsters can take a much-needed holiday.
