Newswise — Why haven't there been serious female presidential candidates before Hillary Clinton? There is no simple answer, but Kristina Horn Sheeler, Ph.D., assistant professor of communication studies, School of Liberal Arts, Indiana University-Purdue University Indianapolis (IUPUI), thinks that women candidates have done themselves a disservice by portraying themselves as pioneers rather than potential leaders.
If the Democrats can drain off enough moderate religious Republicans, they could capture the presidency in 2008. That's why Senator Hillary Clinton is discussing her Methodist roots; John Edwards is talking about reawakening of his faith upon the death of his son; and why other Democratic hopefuls are flying their religious colors according to Philip Goff, Ph.D., director, Center for the Study of Religion and American Culture and professor of religious studies and American studies at the School of Liberal Arts, Indiana University-Purdue University Indianapolis.
Is Mormonism mainstream enough to be the religion of a U.S. president? Few non-Mormon voters outside of Nevada know that a Mormon currently is the majority leader of the U.S. Senate
John Edwards isn't unique. Affluent and privileged politicians of the past, including FDR and JFK, have identified themselves with those on the lower rungs of the socio-economic ladder and have won their support. But according to William A. Blomquist, Ph.D., professor of political science at the School of Liberal Arts, Indiana University-Purdue University Indianapolis, Senator Edwards may not be able to attract these voters because they, as do other voters in 2007-08, want politicians to focus on other issues, especially Iraq and healthcare.
Exit polls were roundly criticized in the 2004 election. How will they fare in 2008? "Better," says veteran pollster Brian Vargus, Ph.D., professor of political science at the School of Liberal Arts, Indiana University-Purdue University Indianapolis.
"Quest for the White House" is a publication of the Media Relations Group in the Office of Communications and Marketing, Indiana University-Purdue University Indianapolis (IUPUI).
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