How Important is the Jewish Vote?

Although Jews only make up four percent of potential voters in the United States, both candidates are actively campaigning to win over their votes. Why? Recent history has shown that Jewish people tend to exercise their right to vote more than most other groups. Furthermore, there are large Jewish populations in swing states, including Florida, Pennsylvania, and Ohio. Even so, campaigning for the Jewish voters might not be the best use of time and money for the candidates. Jews have traditionally voted Democrat: Gore won 79% of the Jewish vote in 2000 and Kerry has 69% in current polls, while Bush won 19% in 2000 and 24% in current polls. The Republicans believe that their strong support of Israel and leader Ariel Sharon will win them more Jewish votes than usual. However, the Republicans are failing to see an important point: John Kerry also strongly supports Israel. Also, the Republicans have yet to realize that the Israel issue is basically the only issue they have to draw Jewish voters. Polls have shown that Jews disapprove off Bush's handling of terror and the war in Iraq. Furthermore, Bush’s strong ties to the Christian right will drive Jewish voters away, while Kerry's stand on social issues such as abortion and gay rights will probably attract Jewish voters, who tend to have liberal social views. While this election could be close enough so that every vote matters, a large majority of Jews will vote for John Kerry on November 2.

Works Consulted
Campo-Flores, Arian. Wooing the Jewish Vote. 23 Sept. 2004. Newsweek. 24 Sept.
2004 .