Political Activity
Selecting a Presidential Candidate: Priority Issues of New Hampshire Voters Age 50+
Research Report
Christine Bechtel, AARP Knowledge Management
William E. Wright, AARP Knowledge Management
November 2003
With the presidential primary season gearing up in New Hampshire, AARP polled 1,184 Granite State registered voters age 50 and older, including 1,092 who are likely to vote in the state's presidential primary on January 27, 2004. The survey explored their opinions about whether they think the country is headed in the right or wrong direction, as well as the importance of several national issues in selecting a presidential candidate to vote for.
New Hampshire respondents think the country is off-track and are focused on domestic issues as they approach the 2004 presidential primary. Economic and health issues, including the affordability of health care and prescription drugs, are all very important to substantial majorities of New Hampshire voters. Pocketbook issues - Social Security, affordable health care and the economy - will be very influential as primary voters consider and select a presidential candidate.
The random digit dial telephone survey of age 50+ registered voters was conducted by Woelfel Research, Inc. a national survey research firm, between October 24 and November 10, 2003. Respondents were screened for age and for their likelihood of participating in the presidential primary. The report was prepared by Christine Bechtel and William E. Wright of AARP Knowledge Management. (15 pages)