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Page last updated at 19:15 GMT, Monday, 21 April 2008 20:15 UK

US voters' views: Therese Jones

In the run-up to the most hotly contested US presidential election in years we are asking BBC News website readers from key primary states to share their opinions and views.

Here, Democratic voters from the crucial battleground of Pennsylvania choose between their party's two candidates.


Therese Jones
Student | Democrat

Tuesday's primary will have a big impact on November's general election.

Therese Jones
Age: 20
Lives: State College
Occupation: Student
Last election voted:
First-time voter
In 10 words or less: Independent, academic, well-rounded, environmentally-friendly, informed

Pennsylvania is traditionally a swing state and a big win for either Hillary or Obama could set the tone for the overall outcome.

A record-breaking number of Democrats have registered to vote, which could help the Democratic cause overall. I personally changed from Independent to Democrat so that I could vote in this primary.

I attend the largest university in Pennsylvania, Penn State, and it is difficult to find a Hillary supporter among the 40,000 students here.

A mere 1,500 showed up for her speech on campus on Sunday, compared to Obama's 22,000 several weeks ago.

College students barely remember the times before the Bush presidency and are seeking a drastic change.

Obama's promise of change gives hope to young voters, who see a grim future ahead with the decreasing value of the dollar, the strain on social security, looming college debts and the outsourcing of jobs.

His vow to give $4,000 per year to college students, who in turn must give back to the community, is a positive move.

Although his lack of political experience may be questioned by some, many welcome his fresh face.

Obama's economic and social background make it easy for the average citizen to relate to him, and provide hope that he can change the way government operates.

His foreign policy will aim to mend ties with other nations, in an attempt to erase the anti-American sentiment to which America's youth has become so accustomed.




Electoral College votes

Winning post 270
Obama - Democrat
365
McCain - Republican
173
Select from the list below to view state level results.


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