What it is
A polling average aggregates results from various polls conducted by different organizations, often using statistical methods to weigh individual polls based on their methodology, sample size, and historical accuracy. This approach helps to smooth out statistical noise and potential biases inherent in any single poll, offering a more robust indication of public support for candidates or positions on ballot measures than any individual survey alone.
Polling averages are widely reported in election coverage, providing a snapshot of the electoral landscape. They are used to track shifts in voter preference over time, gauge the competitiveness of races, and predict potential outcomes. Readers follow polling averages to understand the perceived frontrunners and underdogs in a contest, influencing market sentiment around policy uncertainty leading up to elections.
Why it matters
Polling averages offer a more accurate picture of public opinion than individual polls, helping you gauge election outcomes and potential policy shifts.
Reviewed under editorial standardsUpdated September 26, 2026Not investment advice