Release date: Feb. 24, 2004
Contact: Elaine Justice, Associate Director, University Media Relations,
at 404-727-0643 or ejustic@emory.edu

African-American Vote Vital for Success in Georgia

For John Kerry and John Edwards, the African-American vote will be vital to win the Democratic primary in Georgia and other states on "Super Tuesday" March 2, and both candidates are campaigning hard to win that vote, says Robert Brown, an Emory University political scientist.

"Kerry and Edwards are certainly looking to attract and mobilize African-American voters, support that is pivotal now and in November," Brown says. "Like most Democrats, African-American party supporters are primarily concerned with electability, and are supporting Kerry a little more than Edwards, even if they don't agree with Kerry on many issues."

Brown adds that Edwards still has appeal, especially in regards to his passionate, populist message that resonates with African Americans. It will be pivotal for him to have a strong showing in Georgia and other Southern states on Super Tuesday if he is to stay a contender in the race and for a possible slot as vice president, Brown says.

Robert Brown is assistant dean for Emory College and a political scientist specializing in African-American and urban politics, racial attitudes, race and American social policy, and urban poverty. Brown is available to talk about African-American voter behavior. Reach Brown at 404-727-6563 (w), 404-286-8943 (h) or rabrown@emory.edu.

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