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Page last updated at 06:54 GMT, Wednesday, 21 May 2008 07:54 UK

In pictures: Key Democratic polls

Barack Obama at a election night rally in Des Moines, Iowa

Barack Obama has declared himself "within reach" of the Democratic nomination for US president after primary votes in the states of Oregon and Kentucky.

Hillary Clinton at her election night rally in Louisville, Kentucky

His rival, Hillary Clinton, won the Kentucky vote by a large margin and promised supporters she would fight on to the end of the primary season in early June.

Voters cast ballots at Democratic primary in Oregon

Senator Obama was on course for victory in Oregon, leading Senator Clinton by some 16 percentage points.

A Clinton supporter at a campaign rally in Kentucky on 19 May 2008

Mr Obama now has a majority of pledged delegates but he continues to lack support among low-income whites who tend to favour Hillary Clinton.

Barack Obama and his wife, Michelle, at a rally in Des Moines, Iowa

He chose to hold his election rally in Iowa, in a symbolic nod to the state where he won the opening contest of the presidential primary season in January.

Hillary Clinton in Kentucky with husband, former President Bill Clinton (right)

Though few believe Hillary Clinton can now win the Democratic nomination, she almost seems to be more comfortable battling from the underdog position, correspondents say.



SEE ALSO
Obama 'within reach' of victory
21 May 08 |  Americas


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