‘Progressive’ may not be the first word that springs to mind when thinking about American society. However, a fascinating poll out from USAToday shows that some things are changing. Most adults in the US believe that the country is ready for a female president – although only by 61% to 38%. In addition, and perhaps more surprisingly, a smaller majority (58%) believe that Americans are prepared to elect a black or African American to the White House.
This will be cautiously welcomed by the Democrats, whose best candidates for 2008 are looking to be either the most well known Senator, Hilary Clinton or the talented, up and coming Illinois Senator, Barack Obama. A woman or black person has never received the nomination of either Republicans or Democrats for President.
The shift in perspectives of ordinary Americans is good news, but hardly a triumph for equality – the majorities in favour are relatively small, and doubtless much narrower than if the same poll was done in EU countries. What is depressing is the attitude to other social groups – there are clear majorities against the idea of a Hispanic President (perhaps bad news for Jeb Bush whose wife is of Mexican origin) an Asian, atheist or gay person in the White House. A shocking 91% of Americans think the country is not ready for a gay or lesbian President.