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The Wason Center for Civic Leadership at Christopher Newport University today released its latest survey results for the elections on November 5th. The survey shows Rep. Jen Kiggans leading challenger Missy Cotter Smasal by 5 points, with significant support from Independents, men, and white voters, while Cotter Smasal performs strongly among women, Black voters, and college-educated individuals. Key issues for voters include inflation and the economy, immigration, threats to democracy, and abortion. Trust in candidates varies, with Kiggans favored for handling military and veterans' issues, and Cotter Smasal preferred for reproductive rights.
Summary of Key Findings:
- Kiggans’ 5-point lead over Cotter Smasal is bolstered by Independents (+20), men (+25) and white voters (+27); Cotter Smasal does well among women (+12), Black voters (+71), and college educated voters (+9); 13% of likely voters remain undecided in the race.
- Kiggans has a +5 favorability rating (38% to 33%) and Cotter Smasal’s favorability is +6 (22% to 16%); however 61% either have no opinion or don't know about Cotter Smasal.
- Among VA-2 likely voters, President Trump and VP Harris are tied 46% to 46% while Senator Kaine enjoys an 11-point lead ahead of Republican Hung Cao.
- Top of mind issues for likely voters are inflation and the economy (30%), immigration (14%), threats to democracy (12%) and abortion (11%).
- VA-2 likely voters trust Kiggans more to handle military and veteran’s issues (48% to 32%); they trust Cotter Smasal more to handle reproductive rights (42% to 35%).
For additional information or media inquiries, please contact:
Dr. Rebecca Bromley-Trujillo
Wason Center Research Director
Email: rebecca.bromleytrujillo@cnu.edu
Office: (757) 594-9140
Mobile: (269) 598-5008
Cami Castleberry
Wason Center Director
Email: cami.castleberry@cnu.edu
Office: (757) 594-8033
Mobile: (757) 897-4966