www.adl.org/PresRele/ASInt_13/5228_00.htm -
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Published on: 2/13/2008
Last Visited: 5/20/2008
Alexis Simendinger, National Correspondent for National Journal, gave an assessment of the issues that are influencing voters in the 2008 presidential primaries."This is such an interesting campaign to watch, totally unscripted and just a delight for us in the media," said Ms. Simendinger, who added that the Democratic and Republican candidates have strong points and weaknesses in trying to appeal to voters in their own parties.
Ms. Simendinger said President George W. Bush's legacy was influencing the discussion among candidates in both parties."I'm really struck by the impact he is having on the race and the impact he is going to have all the way until the end," she said of the President.
Ms. Simendinger added that issues surrounding immigration reform, the economy, government spending, the Iraq war, and religion would define the race in the weeks and months ahead.Where the candidates stand on immigration, she said, will be a "big motivator" for Hispanic voters, and will play a significant role in the election, with more and more Hispanics voting and influencing the debate.