Kerry's Lead Widens in Democratic Nomination Poll

Strategic Insights -

Democratic presidential hopeful Senator John Kerry has emerged as a strong leader in the nomination process, following his win in the New Hampshire primary. According to a recent Newsweek Poll, Kerry has significantly strengthened his lead among Democrats and Democratic-leaning voters. With 45% of the vote, Kerry is followed closely by former Vermont Governor Howard Dean with 14%, and Senator John Edwards with 11%. The poll also suggests that Kerry's approval rating has improved, with 65% of Democrats and Democratic leaners saying he is their first or second choice for the nomination.

Key Takeaways:

  • Kerry's lead among Democrats and Democratic-leaning voters has widened, with 45% of the vote, up from 30% in the previous week's Newsweek Poll.
  • Howard Dean follows closely with 14% of the vote, while Senator John Edwards has slipped to third place with 11% of the vote.
  • Nearly two-thirds (65%) of Democrats and Democratic leaners say Kerry is their first or second choice for the nomination.
  • Kerry's approval rating has improved, with 65% of registered voters saying they have a favorable opinion of him.
  • 57% of registered voters and 82% of Democratic leaners agree that Kerry is a good leader.
  • The poll also suggests that Kerry would win a match-up against President Bush, with 48% of the vote, compared to Bush's 46%.
  • A large majority (70%) of registered voters say Kerry either has a good chance (28%) or some chance (42%) of defeating Bush.

Statistics:

  • 45% of the vote for Kerry, up from 30% in the previous week's Newsweek Poll.
  • 14% of the vote for Howard Dean.
  • 11% of the vote for Senator John Edwards.
  • 65% of Democrats and Democratic leaners say Kerry is their first or second choice for the nomination.
  • 65% of registered voters have a favorable opinion of Kerry.
  • 57% of registered voters and 82% of Democratic leaners agree that Kerry is a good leader.
  • 48% of the vote for Kerry in a match-up against President Bush.
  • 46% of the vote for Bush in a match-up against Kerry.
  • 70% of registered voters say Kerry either has a good chance (28%) or some chance (42%) of defeating Bush.

Sources:

  • A Newsweek Poll conducted by Princeton Survey Research Associates on January 29-30, 2004, with a margin of error of plus or minus three percentage points.
  • This poll is part of the February 9 issue of Newsweek.