Justin Webb's America

What's not to like?

• Justin Webb
• 20 Nov 07, 04:25 PM GMT

The most interesting poll out this week is not about Iowa or New Hampshire; it is a national survey conducted by Yahoo and the Associated Press. The Candidate's Image Poll offers a look at an important question: is 2008 a post-likeability election in which Americans make their choice irrespective of the "best guy to have a beer with" test?

The poll does throw up some wonderfully odd images, including a self-described die-hard Republican named Donald Stokes, who backs Rudy Giuliani for president but, if he had to take a candidate on a family vacation, would take John Edwards! Eh? Has Mr Stokes not been listening to his party's message on Mr Edwards's trustworthiness?

Other choices are equally interesting, though more explicable. There's a Democrat, Charolette Thompson, who supports Barack Obama but when asked to choose a bowling partner opts for Mitt Romney. I guess I can follow her thinking - he would be guaranteed to stay sober (Mormons don't drink) and play to win.

On the real issue: would you choose a candidate BECAUSE of their suitability for bowling or family fun, the answer is a resounding, and reassuring, no.

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