Religious Groups Mobilize in Presidential Race: The Religious Minority Vote

September 1, 2008

Author: Amanda Wowk

Source: Chicago Flame Online

http://media.www.chicagoflame.com/media/storage/paper519/news/2008/09/01/Features/The-Religious.Minority.Vote-3410367.shtml

In previous elections, ethnic groups have been viewed as key elements of a candidate's campaign. In 2004, Latinos were seen as an important demographic to reach. The debate surrounding immigration reform made both John Kerry and President George Bush attempt to "win" the Latino vote.

However, less attention is given to religious minorities, such as Muslims, Jews, and non-evangelical Christians. Due to the fact that the national census does not tally the numbers of any religious demographic, the true numbers and influence of any of these groups can only be estimated or discerned through outside surveys. In the 2008 election between Barack Obama and John McCain, though, religious minorities have come to the forefront as significant players.