Will Barack Hussein Obama's candidacy be effected by the 'Bradly Effect"?

Question

Tom Bradly was the mayor of Los Angeles, Ca., was black, and was a very effective leader, he ran for governor of California in 1982, and while he led in every pole, he was defeated by George Duekmajian, by a small margin.  It was surmised by the political pundits of that era, that the pollsters were incorrect in their methodology of collecting the preference data, that the question of voting for a black man for governor was asked person to person, and that many people did not like to admit that they would not vote for him because he was black.  So the polls were skewed in favor of Bradly, because those being polled did not wish to appear racist.  He lost in '82 and again in 86, he continued to serve with distinction as mayor of LA until 1993.  If it is ok for black people to vote for BHC because he is black, is it ok for people of other races to not vote for him because he is black?

Anonymous · Accepted Answer

Yes, I'm certain the polls are skewed by the "Bradley Effect." 
People who vote one way or another because of race are fools, but in America we have the right to be foolish.

Michael F · Answer

People can vote for whoever they want to and for any reason they choose.  Those who do so on the basis of a candidate's race, gender or appearance deserve whatever they get.

I do hope that people will vote on more rational bases - like policy, temperament and intelligence.

Wounded Duck · Answer

I certainly hope that we have evolved since then. You forgot to mention that the Deukmejian campaign ran a series of very nasty ads right before the election, hinting at a racist agenda for Bradley. Not so different from today.

catherine02116 · Answer

I think that one's vote should be for the person who best represents one's political viewpoint, and would serve most effectively.  Race, gender, religion, etc should have NO impact, in my judgement.  Unfortunately, that is not the case.  For instance, Barack Obama is supported by 90% of the black voting population.  In my view, that is racial voting and is completely wrong.  I am not voting for Obama---not because he is black, but because John McCain more closely represents my political philosophy.

Anonymous · Answer

I don't vote for a candidate because of their color, and personally I could care less if Obama is black, purple or blue, I do not agree with his socialistic agenda. 

Yes the Bradly effect will impact Obama's campaign, as well his background with Rev Wright, Bill Ayers, etc. 

McCain in 08

Scott K · Answer

Nah, I think it was the Dewey Effect.  The same thing happened in the exit polls in 2004.  Two white men.  I just don't think that polls are extremely accurate.  It is an interesting phenomenon, but that's about as far as it goes.

Dakine44 · Answer

The "Bradley Effect" is not something tangible that can effect his candidacy. If he is ahead in the polls and then loses, it could be attributed to the Bradley Effect. Otherwise, it can not.

db606 · Answer

I think more people want to punish the incompetent party currently holding the executive office.

GOP needs to go away.

gosam777 · Answer

Probably because he didn't have community organizer experience. Mayor, no big deal. But community organizer, that's leadership experience most sensible people look for.

Anonymous · Answer

Anyone who thinks race is no longer an issue in America is blind and/ or deaf.

Trending News

Will Barack Hussein Obama's candidacy be effected by the 'Bradly Effect"?

13 Answers