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MI, FL, OH, PA Arab American Tracking Poll Reveals: Nader Cutting Kerry Support, Bush Job Performance Hits All-Time Low

Posted on Wednesday March 10, 2004

Washington- The Arab American Institute (AAI) will conduct a press briefing on Friday, March 12, at 10:00 AM to release results of its first-ever monthly tracking poll of Arab Americans. The poll will track Arab American voter preferences in the key swing states of Michigan, Florida, Ohio and Pennsylvania through Election Day 2004. Arab Americans in the four states represent a likely voter turnout of more than 510,000 voters (235,000 in Michigan, 120,000 in Florida, 85,000 in Ohio, and 75,000 in Pennsylvania.) Zogby International interviewed 501 Arab American registered voters at the end of February who indicated a likelihood to vote in 2004.

Early results reveal that Ralph Nader’s candidacy, while drawing potential voters from both President George Bush and Senator John Kerry in key swing states, has a significant impact on Arab American support for Kerry among both Democrats and Republicans who indicated that they would otherwise support Kerry. President Bush’s overall job approval rating, 38% in January, has now dropped to an all-time low. Among the issues deemed to be “very important” in determining their vote, were Middle East policy issues including Iraq and the Arab-Israeli conflict.

“Arab Americans are concentrated in the must-win states of Michigan, Florida, Ohio and Pennsylvania. Historically we vote in higher numbers than average Americans. With the nation almost evenly divided between Republicans and Democrats, no vote can be taken for granted. In the past, some campaigns avoided and even rejected Arab Americans and discussing our issues. That won’t work in 2004,” said AAI President Dr. James Zogby.

WHO: AAI President James Zogby

WHAT: Results of first-ever monthly tracking poll of Arab American registered voters in Michigan, Florida, Ohio and Pennsylvania

WHEN: Friday, March 12, 10 AM

WHERE: AAI, 1600 K St. NW (corner 16th & K, entrance on 16th across St. Regis Hotel) Suite 601

CONTACT: Jennifer Salan/Rebecca Abou-Chedid 202-429-9210 – jsalan@aaiusa.org rabouchedid@aaiusa.org