The Free Press, Mankato, MN

Local News

October 9, 2008

Voter voices

Voices of the Voters: Survey Responses



CNHI journalists interviewed undecided voters during the past week and a half to talk about issues important during this presidential campaign. Reporters and editors spoke with 36 voters in Indiana, Pennsylvania, Ohio, New Hampshire, Missouri, Iowa, Minnesota and Michigan. Responses to some of their questions follow. (Note: In the interest of clarity, questions printed here may vary slightly from the wording of questions posed to voters.)



Numbers indicate the number of people who answered a particular way



Q. What are the three most important issues — in order of priority — that matter to you in this election?



30 Economy

16 War

7 Health care

6 Cost of gas/Energy/Oil

5 Security/Terrorism

5 Foreign Policy/Defense

4 Taxes

3 Education

2 Immigration

2 Jobs

2 National debt





Q. What character traits are important to you in a presidential candidate? (Voters could offer more than one choice.)



17 Honesty

7 Integrity

6 Leadership

3 Articulate

3 Experience

3 Trustworthy

3 Faithful to citizens

2 Character

2 Diplomatic

2 Intelligence





Q. Has the United States come far enough in race relations to elect an African-American to the presidency?



Yes 24

No 10

Don't Know/No Ans. 2





Q. Is age a factor in the election? Will it have any influence on how you vote?



Yes 13

No 20

Don't Know/No Ans. 3





Q. Is gender a factor in the election? Will it have any influence on how you vote?



Yes 4

No 29

Don't Know/No Ans. 3





Q. Are the running mates important in this election? Will they influence your decision?



Yes 24

No 7

Don't Know/No Ans. 5





Q. Will the debates be significant in your decision?



Yes 19

No 10

Don't Know/No Ans. 7

Text Only | Photo Reprints
Local News