November 05, 2004

Abstract: (CPOD) Nov. 5, 2004 - Many Americans believe John Kerry was right to accept defeat in the 2004 United States presidential election, according to a poll by Gallup released by CNN and USA Today. 80 per cent of respondents agree with the Democratic nominee's decision.

(CPOD) Nov. 5, 2004 - Many Americans believe John Kerry was right to accept defeat in the 2004 United States presidential election, according to a poll by Gallup released by CNN and USA Today. 80 per cent of respondents agree with the Democratic nominee's decision.

In American elections, candidates require 270 votes in the Electoral College to win the White House. On Nov. 3, Kerry conceded after Republican incumbent George W. Bush secured at least 274 electoral votes from 29 states. The Democratic nominee addressed supporters in Boston, saying, "We cannot win this election." 60 per cent of respondents believe Kerry was "realistic" about his chances, while 35 per cent think he acted like a "statesman."

Bush will be sworn in for his second four-year term on Jan. 20, 2005.

Polling Data

As you may know, Democratic presidential nominee John Kerry conceded the presidential election to George W. Bush today. Do you agree or disagree with Kerry's decision?

Strongly agree	54%
Moderately agree	26%
Moderately disagree	5%
Strongly disagree	11%
No opinion	4%

Do you think John Kerry's decision to concede the election represents: the actions of a statesman, or the actions of someone who is just being realistic?

Actions of a statesman	35%
Actions of someone being realistic	60%
No opinion	5%

Source: Gallup / CNN / USA Today
Methodology: Telephone interviews to 621 American adults, conducted on Nov. 3, 2004. Margin of error is 4 per cent.