February 12, 2008
Posted: 08:08 PM ET
According to exit polls, Virginia Democratic primary voters who did not identify themselves as Democrats were more likely to vote for Obama.
According to exit polls, Virginia Democratic primary voters who did not identify themselves as Democrats were more likely to vote for Obama.

Virginia Democratic primary voters who did not identify themselves as Democrats were more likely to back Barack Obama, according to exit polls.

One out of every five Democratic primary voters were independent — and those voters chose Barack Obama over Hillary Clinton, 67 to 32 percent. Seven percent of the voters in that contest were Republican voters who decided not to vote in their own party’s primary – they chose Obama by an even larger margin, 71 to 25 percent over Clinton. Self-identified Democrats also chose Obama, 59 to 20 percent.

Roughly one out of every five voters in the GOP primary were independent as well – but those voters did not vote for the party’s likely nominee, John McCain, who had been expected to benefit from their support. Instead, independent voters backed Mike Huckabee over McCain, 43 to 34 percent, with Ron Paul pulling in 19 percent. Republicans also broke for Huckabee, but by a much narrower margin, 47 to 45 percent. Virtually no Democrats participated in the Republican contest.

– CNN Associate Political Editor Rebecca Sinderbrand

Filed under: Exit Polls • Virginia


american   February 13th, 2008 11:54 am ET

Hillary is what we need, even thow the news is waging propaganda against her. Obama will vote present when something needs done just as before. I will vote republican before I will vote for him. He has to read his notes to answer questions in a debate. Hillary knows her stuff.

MsInMinneapolis   February 13th, 2008 11:46 am ET

I am frustrated by the number of people making claims that Obama lacks experience.

If anything, his time teaching Constitutional law and organizing people in Chicago is better experience than being a political figure for the better half of one's life. The primary job of the president is to uphold and enforce the Constitution. Wouldn't a Con law professor have plenty of experience to prepare him for that?

For those who say this is a Republican ploy, my in-laws and grandmother (all life long Republicans) are supporting Obama now and in the general election and would never go near Hillary.

To attempt to seat delegates in states where only one name appeared is a far greater dismissal of democracy than having to pay the penalty that was declared at the outset. This type of politicking must stop.

Go Obama!

Ed K.   February 13th, 2008 1:06 am ET

I think the republicans are voting for Obama so they want have to face Hillary in the Fall. The rich / republicans and the media are working things out. Looks like we may be looking at 4 more years of republican blood sucking.

HWilliams   February 12th, 2008 9:46 pm ET

From the fry pan (Bush) into the fire (Obama)

Wake up vote Clinton 2008

HWilliams   February 12th, 2008 9:41 pm ET

I have to wonder what happens in November is Obama is the Democratic choice. I can see these same southern states and those midwestern states beating him bad.
I am a Democrat from Penna. who will be voting on April 22, 2008, and my vote will be for Clinton.
We are just ending a Presidential term who has been "on the job Trained" and flunked with flying colors.
Obama as president will contiune the "on the job" mentality we have seen .

If Clinton is not the Democratic choice, or if she would win the primary and select Obama as a V.P. I will be voting for McCain as will my larger than some families be also voting for MAC

Obama just might be suitable in the next cycle but not now

Bill from Beltway Land   February 12th, 2008 9:39 pm ET

Somebody over there needs to get their facts straight about Virginia, where I live and where I voted this morning. NOBODY registers by party here, so I am really not sure what you thought you were measuring. We are ALL independent voters!

Obama = Substance + Style + Momentum   February 12th, 2008 9:33 pm ET

I don't understand how people could be so blind as to ignore the obvious and distort the facts about this man, Obama. He came from such humble background that he relates so well to anyone on the planet! He is as black as he is white, wise as he is intelligent, spiritual as he is skeptical, charming as he is commanding. He is a leader as he is a follower of the will of the people. If there was ever a politician that I could say "is the quintessential man of the people", it would be Sen. Obama. Few religious zealots so fear his positivity to the extent they toss around the possibility that he may even be the anti-christ! The best way to learn about Barack is to read his books, "Audacity of Hope" and "Dreams from my father" – both of which were written years before he announced his candidacy. An incredible glimps into the heart and mind of a man who is on an altruistic quest for world peace.

ANTI CLINTONS   February 12th, 2008 9:32 pm ET

dsw, I disagree with you, we don't want to deal with those idiot Clinton's anymore! they need to fade away like a bad dream. Yes it is over for the fat bottom firls, Hitlery and Bilary.

Obama is the man, not Clinton.

Obama!

Jeff   February 12th, 2008 9:26 pm ET

Obama does not care about us White people we need HILLARY CLINTON in 2008
and for those people on the OBAMA band wagon you need to get off of in

Think Smart Vote HILLARY CLINTON Thank you, ALL

Phil (in Canada)   February 12th, 2008 9:25 pm ET

Obama is beyond divisive politics – I strongly believe he is about unity between whites, blacks, women, men, Americans and non-Americans. I loved what he was about ever since I first heard. I rejoice that the American people, whose choices affect the world, are into a reasoned peaceful political revolution with Obama. Billary Clinton should step aside and let the true leader of the times lead us into a better future.

Jonathan   February 12th, 2008 9:23 pm ET

If McCain lost the independents and the republicans and dems didn't have a say, how did he win the majority?????

Kaybee   February 12th, 2008 9:21 pm ET

I keep see people question what change Obama offers. It seems clear, I have reviewed the issue on his web site and other non-party tools. I think I can clearly see his position on key areas, the economy, healthcare, Iraq and Iran.

But isn't i true that 20 Years of a Bush or Clinton White House is enough, or the issue that a Fail Political First Lady, who would return a impeached president to Lincolns bedroom, That's change!

Jeff   February 12th, 2008 9:19 pm ET

Hillary needs to win the White house in Nov. we do not need a black man we need some that as been there she will work for all people

Darth Vadik, CA   February 12th, 2008 9:19 pm ET

The only thing independent about McCain is his control of his temper, he doesnt have control, its independent of him.

This guy is as right wing as Bush.

Has he offered any ideas about improving education, healthcare, economy, WAR?

No he hasn't, he will keep this country on the path as Bush, and if by some strange miracle he wins the presidency, his approval rating will be in the 30's within a couple of months.

Same old, same old.

Kathy   February 12th, 2008 9:14 pm ET

I guess I'm a novice at this, but why are Independents not allowed to vote in a Primary?

I'm A Michigan Discounted   February 12th, 2008 9:14 pm ET

Wake up Dems. The Republican party is trying to edge out the election. Blog it and find out how many are turning out to vote for Obama just so they can defeat him in November. You can't tell me any Republican who has always been a Republican is going to turn around in the primary and vote for the most liberal Democrat running. There party already has their front runner in Mack and they don't need to vote for him anymore, he already is a shoe in.

According to CNN, 44% of those voting for Obama were Republicans.
41% of those voting for Obama earn $100K a year or more (was that all those Republicans?). Check it out.

To all the real Obama voters, I am sorry this is happening to your candidate. Republicans would never do this unless it was to their benefit. They are planning on smearing him in November.

To all those in Ohio and Texas, it is up to you to stop the Republicans. It is point of contention that Republicans will pick our nominee, when my democratic vote here in Michigan will be ignored.

Elizabeth; Dallas, TX   February 12th, 2008 9:13 pm ET

I live in the South side of Dallas County which is very diverse with almost equal amount of whites and blacks and hispanics. It's a great place to live. I think Obama will do well in Dallas. To be honest, I am offended that Hillary wants to come to Texas and pander for Hispanic votes and use them just to win. I don't remember anyone ever liking the Clintons in my neighborhood and I've met more Obama supporters in Texas. I think it will be very competitive, but we're not as dumb as current president that grew up here, Hillary, so don't think it will be easy.

Obama '08   February 12th, 2008 9:13 pm ET

Go Obama!

dsw   February 12th, 2008 9:13 pm ET

This is a beautiful day for the US of A!

Obama 08!

All those still on the Clinton Express, time to get behind the man who is going to be our Nominee and unite. If Hillary can have some grace she might still have a chance 8 years from now.

Liam   February 12th, 2008 9:08 pm ET

The man is a winner, so stop letting all those sour grapes eat away at your insides.

John McCain wants to stay in Iraq for another hundred years. I bet that goes down good with the Arab people of the middle east. We told them we were only invading Iraq to free it, and then McCain says that if he is President he will treated Iraq like a permanent American Colony.

Gee, that will get the people of the middle east to fall in love with us.

James   February 12th, 2008 9:05 pm ET

President Barack Obama …………has a nice ring to it . He IS the right person at the right time.

YES WE CAN

rodrigo   February 12th, 2008 9:04 pm ET

Kat,

It's a good thing this country has spoken. There will be soldiers lacing up their boots to get out of this horrible WAR that caused so many people, family, friends, neighbors their lives, marriage, children and everything else you can think of.

You know that Barack is the only sincere candidate that understands the constitution and is going to govern by that foundation.

Gerry Cacanindin   February 12th, 2008 9:03 pm ET

Hi Ron,

I'm from the Philippines and I agree with you. This is one of those times I wish I was an American so I can vote for Sen. Barack Obama. Americans are lucky to have such exceptional candidates. All of them are more than capable to be your president.

But Barack Obama's conciliatory message is what America needs right now, especially on how your country is looked upon by the world.

I hope Americans would vote for Obama. I think he has what it takes to heal the wounds that have been caused by the global war on terror.

Z   February 12th, 2008 9:02 pm ET

As an independant, I think the best thing for the country is a Obama vs McCain general election. Regardless of who wins, I think that this will bring a great positive energy to the democratic process that has been missing for a long time. People will vote for who they think will be the better predient, not who they fear the most. Obama has plenty of policy ideas behind him (check out his website), even if he focusses on being inspirational in his speeches, and McCain has a far greater appeal to him besides his military background and war policy.

Of course, once the general election campaign begins and the dirt and spin flies, I could easily change my mind on both counts, but I hope not.

If Clinton or Huckabee get nomination, they will be promoting the other party as Conservatives flock to the ballot boxes to keep Clinton out of the White House, and Huckabee would make Democratic and Independant turnout soar to keep someone with views as ridiculous as Huckabee away from the White House.

Publius   February 12th, 2008 9:01 pm ET

Virginia has no party registration. That is, notwithstanding the CNN report above, there are no "registered Democrats" or "registered Republicans" in Virginia. At best, these are SELF-DECLARED Democrats or SELF-DECLARED Republicans.

Bruce Broker   February 12th, 2008 9:01 pm ET

I may be missing something here, but if the exit polls indicate that both independents and Republicans "broke for" Huckabee, why does it appear that McCain is getting more votes? It would appear to me that either people who are being polled are lying or….

Ian   February 12th, 2008 8:59 pm ET

Or better yet look at Obama's voting record. Oh wait that's right, he doesn't show up for the important votes.

Mark, what are you thinking? President of the world? Are you serious?

yepthatsme   February 12th, 2008 8:58 pm ET

DON'T BLAME ME I VOTED FOR HILLARY! Thats what we will be telling you Obama lovers. When America comes crashing down all around us. what change is he suppose to bring when he doesn't know anything about being a president and all he does is let the same old crowd tell him what he must do. Some change yeah, and we just thought we had it bad.oh yeah there will be a change they will serve chitlines and watermelon in the white house. maybe that is the change he speeks of.

mark P   February 12th, 2008 8:58 pm ET

Ron a broad base of voters equals more people equals more stupid people you really think thats a good thing?

Geri   February 12th, 2008 8:57 pm ET

Are you all sure that everyone that votes in the caucuses & primaries will vote for Obama when election day comes??? That is if he is the nominee. If he is, more years of George W tactics. He doesn't explain what he means by change..just harps on it. He criticizes every thing about Clinton and what she hopes to do but doesn't elaborate on his own change". He definitely will not get my vote.

Anonymous   February 12th, 2008 8:57 pm ET

Can you smell what Barack's got cookin!!!

SH   February 12th, 2008 8:57 pm ET

Democratic voters are outvoting Republicans 2 to 1 in every primary. Anyone who thinks McCain or any republican has a chance with either Hillary or Barack in November is clearly disillusioned and hasn't been following this election season too closely. McCain can't even unite his party and Republicans and Independents are defecting to Senator Obama in droves. Obama would annihilate McCain in the general election. On the other had Hillary would still have a good chance but would energize the Republican base to come out and vote against her. Keep it Obama, you have my support!

Patricia   February 12th, 2008 8:57 pm ET

I agree w/polls, am reg. republ. but for obama….my concern is that Hillary & Bill will bribe superdelegates to gain control – what a system!

Mike   February 12th, 2008 8:56 pm ET

I'm a recently retired military member for 22 years and the last thing I want to see is another Clinton as president. Nor do I want my military brothers and sisters in Iraq for another 100 years. My support is 100% behind Barack for our next president. If for some reason (God help us) he is not the candidate, like many others my vote goes to McCain.

Michelle N Louisiana   February 12th, 2008 8:55 pm ET

I really don't understand when people say Mr. Obama Don't have the EXPERIENCE when it's hillary' s campaign that is sinking and can't control her own campaign where is you TAX Forms Hillary WAKE UP PEOPLE
OBAMA 08
YOU DON'T NEED EXPERIENCE JUST HAVE COMMON SENSE KNOW HOW TO RUN A CAMPAIGN FIRST BARACK OBAMA'S CAMPAIGN IS FUNDED BY PEOPLE LIKE ME EVERY WIN HE GETS IS $150.00 FROM ME NOT PAC MONEY LIKE HILLARY OH AND YES I AM 32 WHITE SOCCER MOM

JC   February 12th, 2008 8:54 pm ET

Heck yeah! OBAMA '08!

California Decline to State   February 12th, 2008 8:54 pm ET

Hi Joe.
If you are looking for substance behind Obama's campaign, then read. Watch debates. Soundbites from speeches are not the way to judge the best nominee.

mark   February 12th, 2008 8:53 pm ET

This is not about feeling good-it is about pride and opportunity. The U.S is the land of opportunity and this the proof. A man who grew up without a father, a teenage mother yet running to be presidency of the world. Only in American. I love you America.

this is what America is all about! Let celebrate our pride in the presence of the world.

Diane, VA   February 12th, 2008 8:53 pm ET

HEY MARYLAND & DC

Come on in, the water's fine.

OBAMA 08

CHERYL   February 12th, 2008 8:52 pm ET

THIS IS A DISASTER FOR OUR COUNTRY!

THIS GUY IS A CROOK!

ALL YOU PEOPLE WHO CAN BE LED BY THE MEDIA , CAN ALSO BE ROBBED THROUGH THE MAIL!

AT LEAST KNOW HIS PAST AND SEE IF YOU WANT TO VOTE FOR HIM THEN!!!!!!!

I AM WITH THE PROVEN CHOICE HILLARY! ALL THE WAY!!!!!!!!!!!!

ZT   February 12th, 2008 8:52 pm ET

People who are elected on populism but not issues are dangerous– they generate hoards of followers who will back them no matter what. (Untill it's too late.) I'm a republican anyway, but I have a feeling I'll be much happier with Clinton than Obama. I don't want a canidate that will "reach out to me" I want a canidate who will agree with me! And if not, I at least want to at least know what they disagree with me on. Seeing people who disagree with me elected ticks me off. Seeing people who's positions are intentionally hidden scares the heck out of me.

Ambigious populism may help him in the relativly uninformed primary, but if Obama doesn't start talking about issues, he's gonna get destroyed in the debates, both with Clinton and with McCain.

SH   February 12th, 2008 8:51 pm ET

YES WE CAN! ITS BECOMING MORE AND MORE APPARENT WHO CAN BRING THIS COUNTRY TOGETHER. KEEP IT UP OBAMA!

Sean   February 12th, 2008 8:49 pm ET

Woot, thanks for wakin me up Ron. For a minute I was thinking that a candidate's stand on the issues was more important than 'appealing to a broad base'. Thanks for snappin me out of it, I was almost about to vote with my head.

Alex   February 12th, 2008 8:49 pm ET

Kat, Unlike Bush Obama actually has got experience in Government. He can see as many can see that Government must serve People. He opposed the war. He promised publicly to bring troops back home by set date.

Perhaps you could read his articles and who know maybe volunteer for Obama campaign.

Every little helps.

Christebo   February 12th, 2008 8:49 pm ET

yes, Obama has scored another political victory in Virginia, and this is clear testimony to his claim that he will be the right democratic party nominee to confront and defeat Sen. McCain in the November general elections.
I wish him the best of luck in the upcoming caucauses and primaries.

Alex   February 12th, 2008 8:46 pm ET

Obama got detailed plans on his website. Do Read :D

California Independent   February 12th, 2008 8:45 pm ET

Anyone that wants to give illegal immigrants drivers licenses does not have my vote. I am an African American voter who worked hard to get mine. He hasn't given me one clear reason to vote for him even after I emailed his campaign.

Then on national television he stated that illegal immigrants don"t come here to drive but to work. That is false. Here in California several of my family and friends have lost their jobs and/or been in car accidents with uninsured and undocumented immigrants.

Got Experience?   February 12th, 2008 8:45 pm ET

I agree with Randy.It is pretty obvious. Independents in the end will break for McCain and so we Dems will lose in the General if we go with Obama. He's not strong with the Dem backbone and it will cost us in the end…

TL   February 12th, 2008 8:44 pm ET

Barak is a bRockstar!

NYC Democrat   February 12th, 2008 8:41 pm ET

Sen. Obama makes me proud to be an American. I always have been, but now I see it in others in a way I havent experienced in a long time.

Thank you VA, and God Bless America!

Ian   February 12th, 2008 8:39 pm ET

Even though McCain is all about keeping the Iraq war going on and doesn't seem to be opposed to invading Iran, and voted against the Bush tax cuts, and wants to provide amnesty to illegal aliens, and seems to be against the first ammendment, I'd still vote for him over Obama. Obama doesn't have much experience so voting for him would be like throwing a pair of die and hoping for the best. At least with McCain you know what you're getting into right from the get go. Even if he is a war monger, he gets my vote.

glhf   February 12th, 2008 8:39 pm ET

This simply shows what we already knew. The independants are upset at McCain for turning his back on them and Clinton has to deal with the vast majority of independants and republicans who loathe her. Obama is the democrat's only hope even when Bush has completely screwed us over.

JOHN   February 12th, 2008 8:39 pm ET

OBAMA 264,400 VOTES IN VIRGINA HUCK AND MCCAIN 220,000 COMBINED OUCH………

Ron R   February 12th, 2008 8:38 pm ET

Wake up people…..Barack is appealing to a broad base of voters in a way that has never been seen before….This can only be good for our country!!

Ron

Kat, Huntington, West Virginia   February 12th, 2008 8:37 pm ET

Dear God! I am stunned at the stupidity of these voters who are so easily fooled. Get ready people, you are determined to elect yet another likeable guy with no experience!! Lace up your combat boots.

Joyce   February 12th, 2008 8:33 pm ET

Hi California Independent.

He doesn't need your vote! I've been in many message boards and have seen a lot of comments. Far more people will split if Hillary wins the nomination!

MNDem   February 12th, 2008 8:33 pm ET

Well California Independent, you go ahead a support the "100 year war" guy.

If he were to win, I would expect that you will sign right up for Iraq.

Joe   February 12th, 2008 8:32 pm ET

I'm a little confused about O'Bama. What exactly is the "CHANGE we can believe in?" He seems like a nice guy, but really fuzzy on what exactly he's going to change (other than the party controlling the WH). And, if that's it, what's the big deal? I have a bigger question about Hillary's "ready to go to work on Day One" mantra….isn't ANYONE who's elected president going to go to work on Day One? I don't think O'bama would stay home on Day One would he? When you think about what these clowns are actually saying it's really weak. Oh, I'd mock McCain but he doesn't have a snowball's chance in hell of going to work as president.

Joe, Williamsburg, Virginia   February 12th, 2008 8:31 pm ET

McCain has the nomination in the bag, this just shows Republicans fear and dislike Hillary far more than Obama and fear him less…Virginia goes back to Red when it matters in the General Election. Just because they vote now doesn't mean they don't go back to McCain when it matters.

Anthony Nwababa   February 12th, 2008 8:31 pm ET

It is obvious that Obama is the nominee. Hillary should accept and work with Obama as first female Vice

kim   February 12th, 2008 8:30 pm ET

I am one of those republicans who is giving Obama my vote. It's not because he will be easier to beat in the general electon, he will win the general without a doubt. I am voting for Obama, because I am actually voting for a person I respect and have confidence in and not for who I dislike the least. If Clinton gets the nomination, my vote will have to go to McCain because I dislike Hillary much more!

sam b   February 12th, 2008 8:29 pm ET

Obama has "captured the imagination of voters". Yes he has.

At some point, he is going to have to come down from the clouds and run as a actual candidate with actual stances.

California Independent   February 12th, 2008 8:26 pm ET

Hi Wade:

He will not be getting my vote!

Martine   February 12th, 2008 8:25 pm ET

The pundits keep reporting that a vote for Obama is a vote for change… its not a vote for change, its a vote for President!

Everyone wants Government without corruption, and a government that cares and delivers for the 'Little Guy' but why do ppl think that a vote for Obama is a vote for these things? I for one would like to hear more substance and fact from Obama and less 'feel good' speeches about change and non-descript statements about a 'better future for Americans'.

Russ C, Seattle, Wa   February 12th, 2008 8:25 pm ET

What ever is going on here ya gotta admit this is the most exciting primary season ever! Obama seems to have captured the imagination of voters both left and center. My bet is he will be the nominee.

Mike K   February 12th, 2008 8:23 pm ET

Go for Hillary!Remember friends! One bird in your hand worth more then two birds in the bush.

Avis C, Richton Park,IL   February 12th, 2008 8:23 pm ET

I knew those Virginians (I hope that's a word) were just as smart! Barack is the Man for the job. The people in Virgnia showed the world that the U.S. can see past gender and race, cudos to them…now D.C., Maryland and on to WI!

Barack can bring Democrats, Republicans and Independants together and in my opinion that's a GRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRReat thing!

GO OBAMA!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Ben from D.C.   February 12th, 2008 8:20 pm ET

Another reason to have Obama be the nomeniee

Randy   February 12th, 2008 8:17 pm ET

The Moderate Republicans in VA voted for Obama, McCain didn't need thier vote, and they want Obama to run against. Obama the "Cut and Run" Democrat will be the easier target fot the McCain rallying cry, slightly borrowed from the President, and the use of that line helps in reminding his own conservative base that he is very much like Bush.

wade   February 12th, 2008 8:15 pm ET

This just reinforces what Obama supporters have been saying all along — he is the candidate that can get the swing voters that are necessary to win in November.

Obama got it right on Iraq even when it wasn't the safe or popular position. Clinton's experience failed her in that vote (or was it just that her political calculation overruled principle).

Go with Obama to win in November.

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