Barack Obama has hit 50% in the latest Rasmussen's daily tracking poll!!
The Rasmussen Reports daily Presidential Tracking Poll for Friday shows Barack Obama attracting 50% of the vote while John McCain earns 45%. This is Obama’s biggest lead since his convention bounce peaked with a six-point advantage. In fact, on only two days since clinching the Democratic nomination in early June has Obama enjoyed a lead bigger than he has today (see trends).
Think about this for a minute. This is Republican leaning Rasmussen here. Even they are shocked by the results:
It’s stunning to note how rapidly the dynamics of the campaign have changed. Two weeks ago, just before the Wall Street financial crunch became visible, McCain was up by three points in the aftermath of his convention. One week ago today, the candidates were even. Now, Obama’s lead is approaching new highs entering the final few weeks of the campaign.
Obama now leads by five among unaffiliated voters. Last week, the unaffiliated voters were leaning in McCain’s direction.
Dare I say it: John McCain's campaign is tanking.
He's fooling no one with his hail-Mary tactics and I'['d venture to say he's scaring the shit out of people.
UPDATE (Ras on the economy):
Just 13% of voters now say the country is heading in the right direction. That’s down from 17% a week ago and 23% two weeks ago.
Seventy-eight percent (78%) of all adults now believe the economy is getting worse, up from 74% a week ago and 63% two weeks ago.
ADDED BONUS:
New data shows McCain’s lead is down to a single percentage point in Ohio and Florida. He leads by eight in West Virginia while Obama continues to hold a modest advantage in Pennsylvania. A Virginia update will be released at noon Eastern today.
As for Ras' Electoral Count:
The Rasmussen Reports Balance of Power Calculator shows Obama leading in states with 193 Electoral College votes while McCain has the edge in states with 174 votes. When "leaners" are included, Obama leads 255-227 (see Quick Campaign Overview). A total of 270 Electoral Votes are needed to win the White House (see 50-State Summary).
Thanks everyone for the Rec'd status, which a real honor considering it's a POLL DIARY)!
UPDATE II (ht/ by Steve Singiser):
Diageo/Hotline Poll has Obama now leading McCain by 7 (via Political Wire):
Obama Widens Lead
Today's Diageo/Hotline tracking poll will show Sen. Barack Obama opening up a seven point lead over Sen. John McCain, 49% to 42%.
Key finding: On the economy, Obama has a 48% to 34% advantage over McCain.