August 13, 2004

Abstract: (CPOD) Aug. 13, 2004 - The 2004 United States presidential election remains a close contest, according to a poll by Investor's Business Daily. 45 per cent of respondents would vote for Democratic nominee John Kerry, while 42 per cent would support Republican incumbent George W. Bush.

(CPOD) Aug. 13, 2004 - The 2004 United States presidential election remains a close contest, according to a poll by Investor's Business Daily. 45 per cent of respondents would vote for Democratic nominee John Kerry, while 42 per cent would support Republican incumbent George W. Bush.

Independent candidate Ralph Nader garners the support of five per cent of respondents. The election is scheduled for Nov. 2.

Support for Kerry increased by three per cent since July, while backing for Bush went up by two per cent.

Yesterday, former first lady Nancy Reagan—who has openly disagreed with the current federal administration's policies on stem cell research—endorsed Bush.

Three years ago, Bush banned federal funding for embryonic stem cell research, which some scientists believe can be useful in the treatment of several diseases, including Alzheimer's and Parkinson's.

Former president Ronald Reagan—who died on Jun. 5 at the age of 93—suffered from Alzheimer's disease. His son Ron made an appearance at last month's Democratic National Convention.

Polling Data

What candidate would you vote for in the 2004 U.S. presidential election?

	Aug. 2004	Jul. 2004	Jun. 2004
John Kerry (D)	45%	42%	41%
George W. Bush (R)	42%	40%	43%
Ralph Nader (I)	5%	4%	7%

Source: Investor's Business Daily
Methodology: Interviews to 841 registered American voters, conducted from Aug. 2 to Aug. 5, 2004. Margin of error is 3.2 per cent.