(BISMARCK, ND) – Today the North Dakota Democratic-NPL released internal polling data of key eastern North Dakota regions which encompass approximately 45 percent of the state’s total electorate, where U.S. Senator Heidi Heitkamp holds an average 14-point lead over her opponent, Congressman Cramer. In fact, Heitkamp holds an 18-point lead over Cramer in the eastern cities, 4 points higher than her 2012 margin of victory.

This more detailed polling data from Fargo, West Fargo, Grand Forks, and the rural east provides more detail on Heitkamp’s strong lead in these must-win regions – and demonstrate the race’s virtual dead heat statewide.

Toplines:

If The Election Were Held Today: 53 percent of respondents would vote for Senator Heitkamp; 39 percent would vote for Congressman Cramer.

53 percent of respondents would vote for Senator Heitkamp; 39 percent would vote for Congressman Cramer. Favorability: Senator Heitkamp has a 59 percent favorability rating, while Congressman Cramer is at 43 percent favorability.

Senator Heitkamp has a 59 percent favorability rating, while Congressman Cramer is at 43 percent favorability. Job Approval: 62 percent of those surveyed approve or somewhat approve of Senator Heitkamp’s job performance as U.S. Senator.

62 percent of those surveyed approve or somewhat approve of Senator Heitkamp’s job performance as U.S. Senator. Who Will Do A Better Job To Ensure Health Insurance Companies Are Required To Cover Pre-Existing Conditions? Respondents chose Senator Heitkamp by a 34-point margin.

Respondents chose Senator Heitkamp by a 34-point margin. Who Will Do A Better Job Making Sure Health Insurance Is More Affordable? Respondents chose Senator Heitkamp by a 20-point margin.

“As we’ve always expected, this race will come down to who North Dakotans believe will put their interests first, rather than kowtowing to a political party,” said Scott McNeil, Executive Director of the North Dakota Democratic-NPL. “Senator Heitkamp’s strong independent brand, coupled with her lead on issues like health care and trade put her in a solid position for victory on November 6th.”

Read the polling memo and toplines here.

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