(CPOD) Feb. 9, 2004 – Many Americans believe George W. Bush has stronger leadership skills than prospective rival John Kerry, but the Democrat gets higher marks than the current president in other qualities, according to a poll by Gallup released by CNN and USA Today.
(CPOD) Feb. 9, 2004 – Many Americans believe George W. Bush has stronger leadership skills than prospective rival John Kerry, but the Democrat gets higher marks than the current president in other qualities, according to a poll by Gallup released by CNN and USA Today.
More than 50 per cent of respondents believe Bush is a “strong and decisive leader” who “stands up for what he believes in.” Conversely, more than 52 per cent of respondents think Kerry “is in touch with the problems ordinary Americans face” and “puts the country’s interests ahead of his own political interests.”
Kerry has won this year’s Democratic presidential contests in Arizona, Delaware, Iowa, Maine, Michigan, Missouri, New Hampshire, New Mexico, North Dakota and Washington State, making him the frontrunner for his party’s nomination.
Bush, who will not be challenged by any member of the Republican Party for the nomination, has raised $130 million U.S. for his uncontested primary. The presidential election is scheduled for Nov. 2.
Polling Data
Thinking about the following characteristics and qualities, please say whether you think each one applies more to John Kerry or more to George W. Bush.
Bush | Kerry | |
Is in touch with the problems | 33% | 56% |
Puts the country’s interests ahead | 38% | 52% |
Shares your values | 41% | 50% |
Has a likeable personality | 43% | 46% |
Can manage the government effectively | 45% | 46% |
Is a strong and decisive leader | 53% | 39% |
Is patriotic | 49% | 34% |
Stands up for what he believes in | 53% | 34% |
Source: Gallup / CNN / USA Today
Methodology: Telephone interviews to 1,001 American adults, conducted from Jan. 29 to Feb. 1, 2004. Margin of error is 3 per cent.
