The first presidential debate between Hillary Clinton and Donald Trump is fast approaching, and Democrats are starting to panic.
Liberals tend to over-panic, but at this point I think we're under-panicking https://t.co/JVOR4cSVgG
— Jonathan Chait (@jonathanchait) September 26, 2016
Why are they panicking? Because the sizable polling lead Hillary Clinton enjoyed following the Democratic convention in August has all evaporated. A series of national polls published over the weekend show that the presidential race is essentially tied up.
Nat'l polls this weekend: Trump +4, Trump +2, Trump +1, Clinton +1, Clinton +2, Clinton +2, Clinton +3. Dead heat. https://t.co/oAkp7rSBjm
— Nate Silver (@NateSilver538) September 26, 2016
In fact, Five Thirty Eight projects that if the election were held today, Donald Trump would be the next President of the United States.
According to @FiveThirtyEight if the election were held today, Trump would win. Not good news. #Debates #ImWithHer #HillaryClinton pic.twitter.com/N9q0QOkv5n
— ReadyForHillary (@ProgPoli) September 26, 2016
Jonathan Chait of New York magazine argues that liberals are right to be “freaked out” over the latest polls, while current and former Obama aides are finally starting to take Donald Trump seriously as a candidate, as they worry that his appeal to voters extends well beyond the right-wing fringe they have routinely dismissed throughout Obama’s presidency.
Obamaworld isn't laughing at Trump anymore. A depressing read from @IsaacDovere https://t.co/cS25CTHCne
— Julia Ioffe (@juliaioffe) September 26, 2016
Clinton remains a slight favorite to win in November, but if anyone can blow it, she can. The debate should serve as a reminder that our major parties have nominated two of the most unpopular people in America to be our next president. Enjoy!
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