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New Rochelle, New York, April 11, 2000 - In the most recent survey conducted by the Iona College Center for Social Research, 48 percent of Westchester residents would select Rudolph Giuliani, Mayor of New York City, for the U.S. Senate, while only 36 percent would select First Lady Hillary Rodham Clinton. Of those surveyed, 13 percent are undecided.

"Frequently, in state-wide elections, the suburban vote is decisive in selecting a winner," commented Brian J. Nickerson, assistant professor of Political Science, and a coordinator of the survey. "Westchester is vital to both the Mayor and the First Lady. I would expect them to spend a good deal of time campaigning across the County from now until Election Day."

Within the sample of residents surveyed, several interesting patterns, which indicate a strong preference for Giuliani emerge.

• Gender - Giuliani holds a substantial advantage among women - 48 to 39 percent - with 13 percent undecided. Men prefer Giuliani by 52 percent, while 34 percent chose Clinton.
• Party Affiliation - Of those who identify themselves as Democrats, 22 percent would choose Giuliani, while 58 percent of Independent voters would go with Giuliani. Of Independent voters surveyed, 24 percent were undecided.
• Presidential Crossovers - Among those surveyed, 30 percent of those individuals who would choose Al Gore as their president would elect Giuliani as their US Senator. 78 percent of those who would prefer Bush, would also elect Giuliani.
• Regarding race, Giuliani's support among whites was high at 59 percent. However, Clinton was favored by Blacks by 75 percent. Hispanics are roughly split with 46 percent for Clinton and 40 percent for Giuliani.
• Age - Giuliani consistently beats Clinton across all age categories except 18 - 29 year-olds of which 48 percent favor Clinton while 46 percent prefer Giuliani.

The survey margin of error is +/- 4 percent.

Providing interdisciplinary research opportunities for faculty and students, the Iona College Center for Social Research was established with campus-wide support to create dialogue about timely issues facing Westchester County, New York State and the nation. Surveys involve four disciplines - Mathematics, Political Science, Sociology and Social Work - and is operated by six faculty members and more than 30 students who gain practical experience in an active learning environment.

For further information on survey data and analysis, please call Brian Nickerson at (914) 633 - 2697.

For questions or more information please contact:
Meghan Finn
Public Relations Office
Iona College, 715 North Avenue, New Rochelle, N.Y. 10801
tel: 914 633-2005 fax: 914 637-2711

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