February 10, 2005

Abstract: (Angus Reid Consultants - CPOD Global Scan) - Senator John Kerry could count on the support of his home state in the next presidential election, according to a poll by the University of Massachusetts. 54 per cent of respondents say they would support Kerry in a potential 2008 bid.

(Angus Reid Consultants - CPOD Global Scan) - Senator John Kerry could count on the support of his home state in the next presidential election, according to a poll by the University of Massachusetts. 54 per cent of respondents say they would support Kerry in a potential 2008 bid.

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

Kerry has represented Massachusetts in the U.S. Senate since 1984. Current governor Mitt Romney—a Republican—garners lower numbers. 36 per cent of respondents would support Romney in a presidential run.

In the 2004 election, Kerry won the Bay State's 12 electoral votes with 62 per cent of all cast ballots. The last Republican to carry Massachusetts in a presidential ballot was Ronald Reagan in 1984.

Polling Data

If John Kerry runs for president of the United States in 2008, would you support him?

Strongly support	24%
Somewhat support	30%
Somewhat oppose	12%
Strongly oppose	30%
Don't know	4%

If Mitt Romney runs for president of the United States in 2008, would you support him?

Strongly support	12%
Somewhat support	24%
Somewhat oppose	21%
Strongly oppose	29%
Don't know	13%

Source: University of Massachusetts
Methodology: Telephone interviews to 403 Massachusetts adults, conducted from Jan. 24 to Jan. 27, 2005. Margin of error is 5 per cent.