February 12, 2008
Posted: February 12th, 2008 07:35 PM ET

WASHINGTON (CNN) - Conservatives make up a significantly larger portion of Virginia Republican primary voters this year than they did in 2000, a development that is helping Mike Huckabee there.

In 2000, 55 percent of Virginia GOP voters identified themselves as conservative. This year, those voters make up 66 percent of the electorate, and they are breaking for Huckabee over McCain by 23 percentage points.

McCain is drawing 32 percent of the conservative vote, a number that’s only 5 points higher than what he drew in 2000.

But McCain is beating Huckabee among moderate voters by a 3-1 margin, a proportion that is keeping the Arizona senator competitive in the state overall.

– CNN Ticker Producer Alexander Mooney

Filed under: Exit Polls


Rick   February 12th, 2008 8:46 pm ET

It would be useful if CNN not only looked at what percentage of the Republican vote is "conservative", but what the total vote count was. If moderates are abandoning the GOP, the percentage of conservatives would go up, but that would hardly be considered a good thing for the conservative movement.

Rob   February 12th, 2008 8:28 pm ET

Anyone hearing the arrogance already from Obama and his surrogates? Four years of this?

MikeyG   February 12th, 2008 8:23 pm ET

Ben E. – You remember wrong, Bill Clinton was talking about Obama's flip flop on Iraq. Obama was against it in year one, for the war in years two, three and four, and then against it again. Go to the video tape.

inofritzn   February 12th, 2008 8:21 pm ET

Haha Linda, you seem to be pretty angry this evening! I'm sure dem's and Obama wouldn't mind if someone like you voted for Huckabee!! :)

Ed Greenland   February 12th, 2008 8:21 pm ET

Democrats!!! all the way..............
I support Hillary, wholeheartedly, but it appears she's not only going up against Obama, but everyone in the press also. CNN fails to show equality in reporting....and night after night, it becomes more obvious that America isn't ready for a Woman President. I haven't seen one piece of positive reporting toward Hillary Clinton in weeks, on the contrary, Mr Obama walks on water and can't do any wrong. I understand the country is looking for change, but there's something to be said about experience. As I said, I'll vote Democrat no matter who wins because of the sad state of affairs the Republicans have put this country in. I just wish the candidates were being judged more on what they bring to the table. When is the last time we've heard anything about the candidates policies ....can we compare that instead of who gets the African-American Vote, who gets the White high income vote, who gets the Hispanic vote...etc.....Give us something to make informed decisions with, instead of fluff

maggierose   February 12th, 2008 8:16 pm ET

Does anyone else think that maybe Huckabee is leading all of these republican primaries lately because the McCain voters are not coming out to vote – believing McCain is going to win anyway because he is so far ahead with delegates.

Ben E.   February 12th, 2008 8:14 pm ET

I remember when Bill Clinton called Obama's capaign the biggest fairly tale he's ever seen...how rude of him...

Go Obama!

John, CO   February 12th, 2008 8:00 pm ET

To the "Young Voter" – I support Obama, but thank God we live in a country with a political system that isn't decided by who is "a real nice person"....

Frank   February 12th, 2008 7:57 pm ET

Huckabee very clever he knows what he is doing

Young Voter   February 12th, 2008 7:55 pm ET

I'm 17 and still not old enough to vote..but if I could I would vote for Barack Obama
He is a real nice person

While Hilary just gets by, by attacking her opponents. Obama seems like a person that can work things out and negotiate. Hilary seems like the type of person that would just want it her way.

Go OBAMA

Carl   February 12th, 2008 7:54 pm ET

Why does CNN consistently discount Gov. Huckabee and, night after night, disparagingly express surprise at the 'thorn in McCain's side' simply because McCain's ahead in delegate counts? My wife and I are actually Obama supporters but, much to our disappointment, CNN's 'liberal bias' seems to show through with these comments. Only this morning one of the commentators reported the fact that 'Huckabee's press bus ran out of gas' only to laughingly say that this was 'a metaphor for his campaign.' It's upsetting and actually rather anti-democratic (not to mention thick headed) to consistently have these comments about Governor Huckabee in spite of the clear fact that he keeps doing so well race after race. Lou Dobbs was the only commentator tonight who was thoughtful enough to admit that Huckabee was actually connecting with people and perhaps should be taken seriously. It's good CNN coverage in general, but why these disparaging comments, as if he doesn't matter regardless of all the states he's won? I'm sorry, but shame on CNN for doing this.

Linda   February 12th, 2008 7:53 pm ET

If Obama gets in as a nomination I'll switch to republican and vote for Huckabee.
Linda

Julie, Binghamton, NY   February 12th, 2008 7:53 pm ET

CNN- why are you reporting that Obama has expanded his base amongst white Democratic voters? Hillary got 59% of those voters- the only reason he carried the entire white vote was because of white independents who are traditionally in his favor anyways!

OBAMA08   February 12th, 2008 7:51 pm ET

Obama would make other countries like America again..I'm not sure that Hilary is right for the job.

I hope this happens

President: Obama
Vice President: John Edwards or John Kerry

Linda   February 12th, 2008 7:51 pm ET

In the beginning of Obama 's campaign he didn't know what to say in the debate . Until he was listening Hillary talk . And then gotten better because of listening to Hillary talk .So what that makes him a copycat. He's not qualified to take the job as a President ,he don't know what to do. Hillary is more better qualified to be a President than Obama is . I hate to say it but its true. Remember what he said he that he might make alot of mistakes. It may take a long time to straighten things out .
Linda
GO HILLARY

JF   February 12th, 2008 7:50 pm ET

AS always CNNs showing it's bias. Any time they can lie about the Clintons, they will do it. What more would you expect from republicans? They lie about Obama too, but they make it sound like he is the Lord coming back to save us. They still know that Clinton can beat any of the republicans, and Obama is too dumb, and they can beat him. Watch out AMERICA, they may get their wish, and then we'll
have another 4 years of stupidity in the white house.

LQ Rochester MN   February 12th, 2008 7:49 pm ET

Connie, shame on you!

There are a lot more than southern African-Americans voting for Obama (I'm midwest, white, female, over 50).

Even IF Bill Clinton did so much for southern African-American voters during his presidency, there are a few flaws with your "theory"

#1. Bill Clinton is NOT running – the candidate is Hillary Clinton, who during those years was the country's First Lady
#2. Even IF he were running, that does not mean anyone is obligated to vote for him based on past performances.
#3. If you want to see what Obama stands for – check out his website.
#4. Did you know that despite what I heard Carville say recently, Hillary's health plan could require garnishment of your wages if you do not enroll, since it would be mandatory. I heard her say that. Obama's does not.

I used to be a Hillary supporter. I also supported her husband. But the more I see and hear from her, the less I like her. She really twists her words to say what she thinks her audience wants to here. I don't care if "all politicians do that". I have not heard Obama do that. That is one of the CHANGES he is for.

And another thing – your idea that African-Americans "owe" the Clintons or anyone anything is very degrading and demeaning, in my opinion. Obama is not just the first black face to run for president. He is the first to run for president in maybe 40 years to get me excited about voting. I have been voting since 1972, often voting for the "lesser of 2 evils". Last week I very proudly voted for Obama.

Another nurse for Obama
OBAMA 08

Jim in FL   February 12th, 2008 7:49 pm ET

Hard to not admire Huckabee's attempted miracle. And OBTW, six months ago most would have rated Obama even being competitive as requiring a miracle. Only question now is do they happen in two's .... LOL at all the Hillary inevitables ! Huckabee against Obama in the general election would be a victory for America before the first vote is cast.!

Nina / Florida   February 12th, 2008 7:49 pm ET

This is to Connie. I can't believe that she actually had the nerve to say that blacks have turned their back on Hillary Clinton. Just so you know it's not a matter of turning our backs on Hillary. Blacks and other american will vote for the canditate that they feel will do the best job for this county and clean up the mess that George W. Bush and his group has gotten us into. Anyone with any pride, loyality and love for this country must realize that we were better off when the Dems. were in the house and we will be better off when they are back. Connie you've got to be a Rep. or an independant, no true Dem. would ever say what you did. In any event we Dems. will unit behind which ever candiate is the parties nominee.

Andrea   February 12th, 2008 7:47 pm ET

Why are we sitting here debating the ethics of politics and sizing up the opponents by race, sex, and experience. When you have a person who has been in office for over 35 years and change is still needed. Than go for the change. What better person than Barack Obama. Maybe many of you on this blog have never had hard times based on your community, upbringing and broken homes. Maybe you different not having health insurance or food because your mom was trying to raise her children on one income. Try always having to work harder to prove yourself because of your color when we all BLEED the same.

But I don't think america is ready for change, we talk about it but we are not about it.

God Bless you all!!

robertsc   February 12th, 2008 7:45 pm ET

There is only one CONSERVATIVE running, I loathe being yoked to all you wackos. Huckabee looks like NIXON.

Rhonda   February 12th, 2008 7:41 pm ET

All the commentary I've heard so far imply the votes for Huckabee are really votes against McCain. Maybe people just like Huckabee. I'm intrigued by his fair tax plan which I admittedly don't know much about – how about some discussion and analysis from your experts. Also, it's nice to hear a republican candidate express concern for "regular" folks. FYI: I voted for McCain, although I like Huckabee too. I am just more comfortable with McCain being Commander-In-Cheif.

OBAMA08   February 12th, 2008 7:41 pm ET

Obama would make a great and honest president..Hilary is way too political and less for the people..

And We've had enough Clinton and Bushes..almost 20 years now

D.R.   February 12th, 2008 7:41 pm ET

Connie...Wow. Very cavewomenish.

Jacob   February 12th, 2008 7:40 pm ET

To those suggesting that Republicans are voting Dem to skew the vote here in VA. You are incorrect. I am a democrat but I have plent of friends who used to be republicans until this election. THEY KNOW the Republicans simply don't care about them, and they've had enough. As to Republican turn out, it's suffering. I think that brings bad tidings for November.

mike   February 12th, 2008 7:39 pm ET

I do see some favoratism for Obama over Hillary but CBS clearly crossed the line of objectivity on 60 minutes by having Obama go first and then telling Hillary what he had been asked and what he had responded. CBS does mean Clinton Broadcasting System and no, I did not call Hillary a broad.

Judi Markos   February 12th, 2008 7:38 pm ET

I am sick and tired of all of the established candidates.....I will support Ron Paul and his ideals. We will be mar hing on DC, anyone tired of the same bull, join us!!

di   February 12th, 2008 7:37 pm ET

congrats americans ... getting interesting...let us allow the americans to choose freely just immagine the fun of say huckabee winning all the remaining states to be the nominee and say obama defeating the former first lady who launched out with name recognition and 100 million dollars war chest. this is just interesting.

D.R.   February 12th, 2008 7:37 pm ET

Wow....It's always something with the Clintons and their supporters. Excuse after excuse. First it was the African Americans, caucusing, money, and the activists. Denial isn't only a river in Egypt.

kate   February 12th, 2008 7:37 pm ET

Seriously, get a grip! We are at war and Obama just doesn't have it, get over the great speeches and his writers. It takes more than delivery to run a country. Come on Ohio, your state gave us Bush, here is your chance to redeem yourselves. Vote Clinton in 08!!!

Becky Walcott   February 12th, 2008 7:37 pm ET

I can not believe Obama supporters are still accepting very little substanance. With the condition thsi country is in we need someone who can get the work done. Yes we need a change but like anything else we should have a good solid plan for change put together with alot of knowledge. Will Obama get the support he will need from Congress to get his changes put into effect? Is his troop withdrawal plan even possible? Please stop and think this htrough before you cast your votes.

Jacob   February 12th, 2008 7:35 pm ET

Last sentence should read "Arizona Senator"

You're welcome!

Proud Californian   February 12th, 2008 7:35 pm ET

Hillary conceded Potomac region way before these primaries...she knows it!! Just watch out for TX and OH...and PA ..brace yourselves Obama supporters.....HILLARY will still win the dem's nomination!!!

Bill H   February 12th, 2008 7:35 pm ET

Good job Huckabee! Ride on Dark Horse! (We know that you are MORE conservative than McCain).

Connie   February 12th, 2008 7:35 pm ET

If you want change all Democrats must support the candidate that gets the nomination. Southern men will not vote for a black or a woman so hopefully the rest of the country will elect a new President. If Obama is the candidate, he will be getting a lot of Independent voters and hopefully the Repugs will just stay home.

ashley   February 12th, 2008 7:34 pm ET

Why is CNN calling an election based upon exit polls, especially when polls have not closed in Maryland and DC? It also looks like there have been more returns than there were people surveyed in the polling . . . . Come on CNN, at least try not to look biased . . . . .

rathibon   February 12th, 2008 7:31 pm ET

You guys have the worst panelists on television. The whole panel is so ridiculously one sided, blasting Hillary Clinton and second guessing everything she and her campaign does. It is disgusting how your fall all over yourselves to compliment Obama. You guys are trying to do to Hillary what you did to Al Gore, and look what that got us.

neil   February 12th, 2008 7:29 pm ET

good, virginia is WTA and this is just about delegates. mccain only has to beat HICKabee by one vote. then the dems can clean the old man's clock in november.

SteveM   February 12th, 2008 7:29 pm ET

Wasn't the Arizona destroyed at Pearl Harbor? Which is what I am afraid will happen to McCain in the national election. Hang in there Mike.

lindyj   February 12th, 2008 7:28 pm ET

Not one of the panel mentions the obvious; white men don't seem to want to vote for a women.

Wallace, Sacramento, CA   February 12th, 2008 7:27 pm ET

Oregon Independent,

First, you are obviously a Republican posing as an Independent because it's "cool" to do so on this ticker. The mere fact that you are making Race & Gender an issue, speaks to your ignorance. Individuals like you wouldn't vote for Barack, Hillary, or John Edwards. You simply like huring racial insults and negative energy because frankly, it's all that you know how to do.

When BARACK and/or Hillary gets into Office, you'll be eating your words. As a matter of fact, your life will probably be much better because of the policies they'll implement.

Again, your negativity means nothing to us TRUE independents.

Take care and we'll see you in the White House.

Wallace
A TRUE Independent!

Obama 2008!!!

Jen   February 12th, 2008 7:25 pm ET

This is the second time that CNN has mixed up the poll results. Your site shows Obama won VA with 48% of the vote and Hillary got second with 51% of the vote. Obviously your percentages are mixed up. This is the second time in your politcal coverage in the last two months that I have seen you do this. And, each time it gives Hillary the wrong higher percentage. Is CNN doing this on purpose? You don't seem to be goofing up with percentages with other canidates. Just making it look like Hillary won while declaring Obama the winner

young voter   February 12th, 2008 7:25 pm ET

I just wanna say that for anyone who is comparing white and african american voters as far as voting for a woman or for an african american man needs to realize that alot of states that have primarly white men, grown white men, have been voting for Obama...I think it is great that in this century there is even a possibility of having change and im very excited to be a part of this election year!

andy   February 12th, 2008 7:25 pm ET

mishte, I would not so much as hint at clinton at this point but watch out for the under current of white voters who will turn up the heat as soon as they know who is the dem who will run against them ! Also if Obama is the guy watch out for the latinos to fall in support of McCain and also the Catholic!

Vic   February 12th, 2008 7:24 pm ET

Wow, he beat her by only 5 percent of the vote. Judging by the way he and she have been covered by the media, the count would be more like one hundred to nothing. So hang in, Senator Clinton, you'll hopefully get a good share of the Virginia delegates.

sociallyAware   February 12th, 2008 7:23 pm ET

Mishte- uh, Clinton has been on the campaign presidencial trial before I doubt she is foloowing Guliani's failed policy. If you look at the numbers for VA, they were very close however no one is commenting on that. She did not expest to win VA. Lets start talking on MArch 4th, if she loses in any of those states she is done. However, for some reason, I don't think this race is over-despite the momentum.

BTW, I really admire Huckabee for staying in the race.

Stevo   February 12th, 2008 7:22 pm ET

It just underlines what I have been saying...that the Republicans are not happy with McCain...some, like me, will be voting the other way for the first time ever...or like James Dobson, just give up and not vote at all

WeAreStillHere   February 12th, 2008 7:22 pm ET

Yes, us social conservatives are still alive and still have the same issues. We will still be heard, even if we don't have enough delegates to win the nomination.

Monique   February 12th, 2008 7:20 pm ET

What the heck?? How can CNN make a projection when the polls have just closed. Are you going to call Md and DC since they close in 1 hour?? Not to mention the subliminal faded oval for Clinton and a dark blue for Obama? Shame on you.

Willy   February 12th, 2008 7:19 pm ET

Go Mike Huckabee send the liberal McCain packing back to Hillary and Obama.

Theo   February 12th, 2008 7:18 pm ET

Rebublicans (and most likely men) vote for Obama; becuase they are afraid of having Hilary as the winer of the democratic party. I am amazed that the CNN analysis does not probe further into the results.

hkitty   February 12th, 2008 7:18 pm ET

Does anyone get a sense that the Republicans are messing with our nomination process in these open primaries? I just don't see a whole bunch of southern Republicans voting Democratic in the fall. Hmmm? I guess we'll just have to wait to see if this tranformative "movement" shows up in November.

Joe   February 12th, 2008 7:17 pm ET

Obama wins! he is even with white voters. I don't how Hillary is going to spin this. What i hate about her is not accepting defeat and so dismissive of his victories. Obama didn't dismiss Hillary victory in California by saying she won Latino vote. Thats what make him great.

Sandra Buttrey   February 12th, 2008 7:16 pm ET

I really can not understand why your group of "Reporters" have it in for Hillary. It is so obvious the total dislike they have for her and they get so excited and smiley sharing her loses with the rest of us. I have always watched CNN, but after this weekend and today my dial will change.

Brenda   February 12th, 2008 7:14 pm ET

Why is it there is virtually no conversation about Paul dropping out of the GOP race – only Huckabee? At least Huckabee is competitive with McCain!!! That is what makes an election interesting, isn't it? Clear and distinct choices being competitive...

mishte   February 12th, 2008 7:13 pm ET

Did anyone bother to inform Clinton that the Giuliani strategy is a severely flawed one?

Moses   February 12th, 2008 7:12 pm ET

I did not know "the Arizona" was also in the primaries...

Oregon Independent   February 12th, 2008 7:10 pm ET

And here's some more good news for you Dems. It seems there is an undercurrent of voting/not voting that doesn't show up in the polls or voting. It seems there is a whole segment of white Dems that will not vote for a black man (primarily southern states) and another segment that won't vote for a woman (primarily white blue collar men Dems) It now looks like there is no way for the Dems to win any of the states they will need to pick up the electoral in November.

Good luck Dems.....you're going to need it!

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