US Elections 2024: One week before polls, betting odds reveal where Trump and Harris stand

Las Vegas witnessed a robust political gathering as former President Donald Trump delivered a speech at a Turning Point Action rally, focusing on tax cuts and taking aim at Vice President Kamala Harris’s campaign. Trump described Harris’s campaign as “imploding,” citing what he claims to be his substantial lead in key battleground states.

The speech not only rallied his supporters but also coincided with shifts in the presidential betting odds, reflecting changing perceptions among voters.

“She’s actually imploding, if you take a look. Because, look, I’m not supposed to say it, but we are leading by so much,” Trump remarked to an enthusiastic audience, as per a report by USA Today.

He highlighted his lead in critical states like Nevada, Arizona, Michigan, and Pennsylvania, positioning himself as the candidate capable of turning typically Democratic-leaning states in his favor.

Betting odds reflect Trump’s lead

Trump’s remarks come at a time when betting odds have increasingly favored him over Harris as the US presidential race heats up. At offshore betting houses like BetOnline, Trump holds a significant lead, with odds at -200 compared to Harris’s +170, as mentioned in a report by USA Today.

This shift follows reports, including one from the Wall Street Journal, which indicated that large bets at the crypto-based platform Polymarket had altered the odds dramatically, raising questions about their accuracy.Other major betting platforms reflect similar trends. Bet365 lists Trump at -188 and Harris at +150, while Bovada places Trump at -185 and Harris at +160.Also Read : US election results: Is Donald Trump fearing defeat against Kamala Harris?

Despite the odds, recent polls, such as those from ABC News/Ipsos and CBS News, show a close race, with Harris maintaining a slight edge or a tie in certain battleground states.

Betting trends and historical accuracy

Betting markets have been a topic of interest during presidential races, though their predictive power has varied over time. Historically, the favorite in election betting markets has lost only twice since 1866, according to data from The Conversation, a nonprofit news organization.

One of the most notable upsets came in 2016 when Hillary Clinton, who had odds of -323, lost to Trump. Another significant surprise occurred in 1948 when Harry Truman defied eight-to-one odds to defeat Thomas Dewey.

As Trump’s odds improve, observers are questioning the implications of these shifts. While betting markets are not definitive predictors, they often reflect trends in voter sentiment and campaign momentum.

Trump’s supporters view these odds as a sign of growing support, while analysts suggest they could signal the unpredictability of the upcoming election, according to a report by USA Today.

Trump’s economic focus and Harris critique

In his speech, Trump highlighted his economic agenda, emphasizing plans for tax cuts and criticizing the Biden-Harris administration’s handling of the economy. He reminded the audience of his earlier promise to eliminate taxes on tips, contrasting it with Harris’s economic policies.

“When I said no tax on tips, remember? A month later, she comes out, ‘and we will have no tax on tips.’ She never said that before. And she’s never said it again. You’re not going to get it,” he asserted, as per a report by USA Today.

Also Read : Vice President’s biggest weakness: Kamala Harris admits she struggles to answer interview questions

Trump also criticized Harris for supporting increases in the tip allocation tax rate, framing it as a burden on working Americans. He warned of potential economic consequences if Harris were to remain in office, saying, “If she gets four more years, Kamala Harris will pick your pockets bare.”

A high-stakes contest as Election Day nears

As the race enters its final stages, both Trump and Harris are vying for key voter support in battleground states like Nevada. The stakes are high, with the candidates’ respective campaigns seeking to secure their path to the White House.

Trump’s speech in Las Vegas underscored his campaign’s strategy of targeting economic issues and criticizing his opponent’s record.

With election betting odds reflecting an increasingly competitive race, the outcome remains uncertain.

Yet, Trump’s narrative of a faltering Harris campaign and his focus on tax cuts appear designed to energize his base and sway undecided voters.

As November 5 approaches, the dynamics of the US Elections will continue to draw attention, both from voters and those watching the ever-shifting betting markets.

FAQs:

Who is leading in the US Elections 2024?
As per reports, Harris and Trump are in neck in neck fight in the upcoming US Polls.

When will the US Elections be held?
US polls will be conducted on November 5.