Donald Trump has opened a near-double-digit lead on the betting platform Polymarket – his largest since Vice President Kamala Harris joined the race for the White House.
The former president’s chances of electoral success have boosted in recent weeks. An unspectacular debut appearance in the highest spotlight saw Harris’ honeymoon momentum dwindle, with polls increasingly turning towards Trump’s favor in recent weeks. Careful steps into a hostile media environment, again with sub-par performances, have certainly not helped the Democratic nominee.
The capitulation of his opponent is not the only reason for the Republican’s success, though. Trump’s campaign has rigorously campaigned in key areas on key issues, and his response to Hurricane Helene has resonated well with would-be voters.
Polymarket’s odds had Trump and Harris neck and neck as September became October. In fact, no sizeable difference opened up until Sunday, October 6 – the day after Trump’s historic rally in Butler, PA. Now, the former president leads his adversary 53.2% to 45.2% – an advantage of 8 percentage points. Amazingly, there’s over $1.5 billion in volume being traded on these bets.
Many called for conservatives to keep up the momentum, particularly in the vital swing states.
Other commentors highlighted the sheer pace of change in the betting market.
