Response by Rick Thigpen

Bush's brand of conservative Republican politics is not selling very well in New Jersey.  The more Bush does what it takes politically to pursue his southern- and western-oriented electoral strategy, the harder it gets for him to carry New Jersey.  Additionally, the public is clearly dissatisfied with the President's performance in office.  Taken together, this leaves little room for doubt that New Jersey belongs to Kerry. Bet on it. 

The big variable is turnout. And turnout is more of a wild card in this first national election in the "McCain-Feingold era."

This poll indicates a surprising development that would be very significant if it holds up on election day.  Kerry is showing increasing support among male voters, surprising for a Democrat.  If he can repeat this politically potent feat nationally, in battleground states, he'll have it made in the shade on November 2nd.

Comment by Fairleigh Dickinson University's PublicMind Academic Associate, Rick Thigpen (J.D., Columbia University Law School). Rick is a former Executive Director of the New Jersey Democratic Party and now a partner in The Strategy Group and is a campaign coordinator for the Essex County Democratic Party. Rick Thigpen, Esq. can be reached at (609) 394-0888.