(Angus Reid Global Monitor) - Democrat John Edwards holds the upper hand against two prospective Republican rivals in the United States, according to a poll by Rasmussen Reports. 45 per cent of respondents would vote for the former North Carolina senator in next year’s presidential election, while 41 per cent would support Arizona senator John McCain.

Support for Edwards in this match-up fell by seven points since mid-August, while backing for McCain increased by five points. In a separate contest, Edwards holds an 11-point advantage over actor and former Tennessee senator Fred Thompson.

Yesterday, Edwards welcomed the endorsement of the Transport Workers Union of America, saying, "It’s because of you that people can move around the city of New York, that people can move around America."

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.

Original Releases from Rasmussen Reports - McCain v. Edwards, McCain v. Romney

Polling Data

Possible match-ups - 2008 U.S. presidential election

McCain v. Edwards

Romney v. Edwards

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