Originally Posted by iceclone 
I think I am in agreement with Johnny in that I don't think most people really vote based on policy, or at least not a nuanced understanding of policy. I also think it is hard to separate prejudice from other intangibles such as “likability.” For example, people vote for candidates they like, which tend to be candidates voters identify with in some way, such as having the same race, religion (at least in a broad sense, such as Christianity), etc. Thus, prejudice against people who are different does become an important factor.
Obviously people have their reasons to support or not support a candidate. However, I continue to maintain that racial, gender, and religion prejudices are not the defining issue in terms of electability.
I will again attempt to support my contention with the example of Barrick Obama. In December 2006 and January 2007 Washington Post-ABC News polls, Clinton led Obama among African Americans by 60 percent to 20 percent. When Obama declared his candidacy much of the media was reporting on his appeal to white audiences. In addition, his appeal to both black activists and black voters was being questioned.
As Obama's positions on issues began to resonate with the black population, his favorability ratings have improved significantly with the black population.
There are numerous examples of blacks supporting white candidates when the white candidate is challenging a black candidate. Typically in these examples the black candidate is a conservative Republican while the white candidate is a liberal Democrat. In these cases the black electorate appears to basing their vote on issues and ignoring racial prejudice.
Link:
Blacks Shift To Obama, Poll Finds - washingtonpost.com 
