August Tue, 2004
KERRY BESTS BUSH ON ALL FRONTS
With memories of the 2000 Florida ballot count still vivid for many, New Jersey voters tend to see President George W. Bush as someone who has divided the country during his term in office. In contrast, most feel challenger John Kerry would be more of a “uniter” were he elected. And while the war in Iraq and concerns about terrorism continue to be dominant issues, the policy advantage does not necessarily go to the Republican.
August Sun, 2004
KERRY GETS JERSEY BOUNCE
Fresh on the heels of his party’s convention, Democratic nominee John Kerry has opened up a commanding lead over President George W. Bush in New Jersey. The challenger now leads the incumbent by 52 to 32 percent among the state’s registered voters with 12 percent undecided, according to the latest Star-Ledger/Eagleton-Rutgers Poll. In May, Kerry held a slimmer 43 to 37 advantage. Positive reaction to last month’s Democratic convention seems to have helped Kerry solidify his Garden State base while the President’s support has softened.
March Thu, 2004
NEW JERSEYANS SAY CORRUPTION THE NORM IN STATE GOVERNMENT
While New Jersey’s legislative races were largely noncompetitive last year, ethics seemed to be the over-riding issue on the campaign trail. And fewer than 2-in-5 residents today would say that the quality of government in their home state is good. In fact, the overall approval rating of the legislature has dropped in the past two years and residents tend to blame the system for its corrupting culture.
March Sun, 2004
NEW JERSEY: MICROCOSM OF THE NATION
New Jersey has been gaining a reputation as a “liberal” state out of touch with the national mainstream. But is this reputation deserved? Well, we are decidedly prochoice, pro-labor and pro-environment. And Garden State residents oppose hiring practices which discriminate on the basis of sexual orientation. On the other hand, the public is split on affirmative action, feels that government policy on immigration should be more restrictive, and counts personal prayer as an important part of daily life.