The Independent Center's September 2024 survey reveals critical voter trends.
The Big Picture
As the 2024 election approaches, North Carolina finds itself once again in the political spotlight. The Independent Center's September 2024 survey of 600 likely voters in the Tar Heel State reveals a close presidential race, widespread frustration with Congress, and a strong desire for leaders who can bridge partisan divides.
Zooming In
Trump and Harris are locked in a tight race for North Carolina's electoral votes.
When asked, "If the Presidential election were held today, how would you vote if your options were Republican Donald Trump, Democrat Kamala Harris?" (GS3), the results show a virtual dead heat:
- Donald Trump: 48%
- Kamala Harris: 49%
- Unsure: 4%
With such a tight race, both campaigns will be focused on voter turnout. Trump seeks to dominate rural areas and among white voters without a college degree, while Harris aims to energize Black voters and expand support in suburban areas.
North Carolinians express deep dissatisfaction with Congress.
When asked if they approve or disapprove of the job the U.S. Congress is doing (GS2), more than 3 in 5 (62%) expressed disapproval:
- Strongly approve: 8%
- Somewhat approve: 22%
- Somewhat disapprove: 34%
- Strongly disapprove: 28%
- Unsure: 8%
This frustration crosses party lines, reflecting a broader national trend of voter discontent with gridlock and inaction in Washington.
Voters in North Carolina strongly prefer bipartisan leadership.
Asked what kind of candidate would be best to represent them in Congress (PS1), nearly half (49%) said they wanted someone who would work with both parties:
- A candidate who works and votes with Republicans: 24%
- A candidate who works and votes with Democrats: 22%
- A candidate who works and votes with both: 49%
- Unsure: 4%
In a state with a history of moderate leadership, candidates who present themselves as consensus-builders and problem-solvers may have an advantage.
North Carolina voters are open to new voices in politics.
Asked what type of elected officials they think are needed in Washington to improve the federal government's performance (PS4), nearly a quarter (24%) said more Independents:
- More elected Democrats: 33%
- More elected Independents: 24%
- More elected Republicans: 32%
- Unsure: 11%
As unaffiliated voters outnumber Republicans in the state, this result signals a growing appetite for political alternatives.
Data Snapshot
- Trump and Harris are virtually tied in North Carolina.
- 62% of voters disapprove of Congress.
- 49% prefer candidates who work across party lines.
- 24% want more Independents in Washington.
Independent Lens
North Carolina’s voters are looking for solutions, not more partisan fights. The preference for bipartisan leadership and openness to new political voices suggest an electorate that wants practical governance.
For candidates, the challenge is clear: appeal to the middle ground, reject extremism, and focus on getting things done.
Want to explore the data further? Download the complete toplines from the Independent Center's September 2024 Southeast Swing State survey.
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