Polls & Research

U.S. Wants Competence in Presidential Hopefuls

(Angus Reid Global Monitor) - Adults in the United States have a clear idea of the traits they prefer in a presidential candidate, according to a poll by Zogby International. 82 per cent of respondents say it is very important for a contender to be a competent manager, while 80 per cent want him or her to bring the American people together.

Personal morality and the ability to command the military are next on the list with 76 per cent, followed by promoting the image of the U.S. abroad with 73 per cent, and having Christian values and diplomatic experience with 46 per cent each.

The list of prospective Republican Party candidates includes former New York City mayor Rudy Giuliani, Arizona senator John McCain, and former Massachusetts governor Mitt Romney. The Democratic Party's presidential hopefuls include New York senator Hillary Rodham Clinton, Illinois senator Barack Obama, and former North Carolina senator John Edwards.

On Jun. 1, New Mexico governor Bill Richardson, who is seeking the Democratic presidential nomination, expressed confidence in his bid, saying, "My strongest points are my foreign policy record and my experience as a governor." Richardson discussed his views on the Iraq war, saying, "Only when we leave can diplomacy begin for the reconciliation process. Five years ago the war was authorized because of weapons of mass destruction and Saddam Hussein. The reasons no longer apply."

In American elections, candidates require 270 votes in the Electoral College to win the White House. In November 2004, Republican George W. Bush earned a second term after securing 286 electoral votes from 31 states. Democratic nominee John Kerry received 252 electoral votes from 19 states and the District of Columbia.

Bush is ineligible for a third term in office. The next presidential election is scheduled for November 2008.

Polling Data

Presidential Traits
("Very Important" answers listed)