(Angus Reid Global Monitor) - Democrat Barack Obama is almost tied with a prospective Republican presidential nominee in the United States, according to a poll by Rasmussen Reports. 44 per cent of respondents would vote for the Illinois senator, while 43 per cent would back former New York City mayor Rudy Giuliani.

Support for Obama in this match-up fell by three points since late July, while backing for Giuliani increased by two points. In a separate contest, Obama holds a seven-point lead over actor and former Tennessee senator Fred Thompson.

On Aug. 12, Obama discussed his views on immigration, saying, "I want to lift (illegal immigrants) out of the shadows. They would have to pay a fine, learn English, and they'd have to get to the back of the line."

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 Release from Rasmussen Reports

Polling Data

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

Giuliani v. Obama

F. Thompson v. Obama

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