FROM CNN's Jack Cafferty:
While the Republican delegates and party officials scream and stomp their feet in support of John McCain in St. Paul, it turns out the rest of the Republican Party is less fired up about the election than the Democrats are.
A new USA Today/Gallup poll shows a slight increase in voter enthusiasm among both parties since the Democrats held their convention and McCain named Sarah Palin as his running mate.
But, Democrats hold a significant lead: 61% of them say they're more enthusiastic than usual about voting this time around, compared to just 42% of Republicans who feel that way.
It's worth noting that there's been a decline in voter enthusiasm since January and February when the numbers were off the chart during the heated primary season. In fact, levels of voter enthusiasm are now lower than they were in 2004 at this same time.
Part of the reason might be that some people have gotten tired of what seems like a never-ending race to the White House. Also, Gallup suggests the decline in Democratic enthusiasm could be due to the disappointment of Hillary Clinton supporters.
Nevertheless, the Democrats hold the edge – and it's something that couldn't be missed in the excitement and size of that crowd at Invesco field last week, much like the crowds Barack Obama has been drawing since he entered this race.
There's no question that for either Obama or McCain to win in November, they're going to have to rally their bases and get their supporters out to the polls.
Here’s my question to you: Why are Democrats more enthusiastic about the election than Republicans are?
Interested to know which ones made it on air?
Patricia from Boise, Idaho writes:
Oh, come on, Jack. It's all about Obama. From the first minute I heard him speak and discovered a potential president with a brain and a plan, I was sold. The "Fired Up! Ready to Go!" chant isn't some slogan imposed on us–it came from the fire in our bellies. (This from a 59-yr-old white woman.)
Chris from Pennsylvania writes:
Talking about change is always exciting. Obama is young and dynamic and his message completely resonates with an electorate that's fed up with politics as usual. But hold on! The GOP is on the verge of its own explosion of excitement that's due to start tonight after Sarah Palin's message of bringing change to Washington. And that's just what lackluster Republicans have been waiting for.
Mark from Ontario writes:
Is it any surprise, Jack? After 8 years of Bush and a Republican candidate who doesn't offer anything significantly different, why should the Republicans be excited? A loss for John McCain in November could be the best thing for the GOP– it would reboot the party and might actually produce a candidate worth voting for.
R. from Phillips, Wisconsin writes:
Having been through a number of elections, I can honestly say I've never been so excited since John Kennedy ran for president. America is waiting for a commander-in-chief to give us challenges that will change this nation.
Linwood from Washington writes:
It's simple. Democrats fall in love and Republicans fall in line. The Democratic candidate is a charismatic and captivating individual with a triumphant story. The Republican candidate is a great American with a great past but not so many great ideas. After eight years of Bush, there is a lot of love flowing on the left and less falling in line on the right.
Michelle from New Hampshire writes:
Hi Jack, Maybe because finally, FINALLY it looks like there is light at the end of the tunnel and this time it's not a train!