At last a poll that includes Cynthia McKinney

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By Jonathan Nack (about the author) Page 1 of 1 page(s)

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For OpEdNews: Jonathan Nack - Writer

Former Congresswoman Cynthia McKinney, the Green Party's candidate for president, is currently polling at 1 percent, according to a national poll conducted by Opinion Research Corporation released by CNN, and reported on by Angus Reid Global Monitor, a poll tracking organization. This is the first poll time Angus Reid has included include McKinney in poll results.

The poll found that 6 percent would vote for Ralph Nader (Independent/Peace and Freedom Party, in California only), and 3 percent would vote for former Congressman Bob Barr (Libertarian Party).

The poll found Senator Barack Obama (Democrat) has a 4 point lead over Senator John McCain (Republican) - 46 percent to 41 percent.

In previous elections, Nader has polled considerably higher than his vote total on election day. Whether that holds true this year, and if it holds true for McKinney and Barr, remains to be seen. McKinney's vote total could benefit from her being the only woman on the ballot in most states.

Neither Nader nor McKinney are likely to be on the ballot in all 50 states, which is one reason their vote totals may not reach their national polling numbers. Another is that voters, fearful either Obama or McCain will win, depending on their political views, will decide against voting for a small party or independent candidate.

McKinney and Barr have less name recognition than Nader, which could lead to their poll numbers increasing, as more voters learn about them.

In 2004, Nader received .4 percent (466,000 votes), Libertarian Party candidate Michael Badnarik received .3 percent (397,000 votes), and Green Party candidate David Cobb received .1 percent (120,000 votes). click here

In 2000, Nader, running as the Green Party candidate, received 2.7 percent, and the 2.9 million votes he received was his high water mark, while Harry Browne, the Libertarian Party Candidate, received .4 percent (384,000 votes).

Should Nader, McKinney, or Barr receive 5 percent of the popular vote, they (or their party's nominee) would automatically have ballot status in all 50 states and receive matching federal funds in the 2012 presidential election.

Jonathan Nack has been a journalist and activist since 1984. He resides in Oakland, California.

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