May 17, 2006

Abstract: (Angus Reid Global Scan) - The 2004 United States presidential election would have a different result this year, according to a poll by Rasmussen Reports. 48 per cent of respondents would support Democrat John Kerry, while 41 per cent would vote for Republican George W. Bush.

(Angus Reid Global Scan) - The 2004 United States presidential election would have a different result this year, according to a poll by Rasmussen Reports. 48 per cent of respondents would support Democrat John Kerry, while 41 per cent would vote for Republican George W. Bush.

In American elections, candidates require 270 votes in the U.S. Electoral College to win the White House. In November 2004, Bush earned a second term after securing 286 electoral votes from 31 states. Kerry received 252 electoral votes from 19 states and the District of Columbia. As far as the popular vote is concerned, Bush garnered 51.03 per cent of all cast ballots, with Kerry getting 48.04 per cent.

On May 15, Kerry discussed the immigration proposals outlined by Bush in a nationally televised speech, declaring, "Rather than try and rescue his poll numbers, President Bush can rescue good immigration policy from the right wing that's exploited it, and he can provide presidential leadership that's humane, realistic and responsible."

In his message, Bush outlined five clear objectives: securing the borders, creating a temporary worker program, holding employers to account for the workers they hire, allowing illegal immigrants "who have roots" in the country to apply for citizenship, and helping newcomers assimilate into American society.

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

Polling Data

Bush v Kerry

John Kerry (D)	48%
George W. Bush (R)	41%

Source: Rasmussen Reports
Methodology: Telephone interviews with 1,000 likely American voters, conducted on May 10 and May 11, 2006. Margin of error is 3 per cent.