SoonerPoll's exclusive poll for News9 included a look at likely voters' opinion on the involvement of third-party groups in the political process. Outside groups were very active in the 2004 U.S. Senate race in Oklahoma, and it has been suggested they may also be involved in the selection of a new U.S. Representative in the 5th congressional district.
Of poll respondents, 44.6% said they would listen to what outside interest groups have to say, but it would have no impact on their support for a candidate; another 19% would take into consideration what outside interest groups have to say about the candidates. 30% told our poll they did not like outside interest group involvement and would not vote a candidate being supported by one.
As for political endorsements, 34% of poll respondents would take into consideration what other political leaders or well-known individuals have to say with their endorsement of a particular candidate. Yet, 61% said political endorsements would have no impact on them when deciding their vote.
No meaningful differences were observed in the opinions between Republicans or Democrats with regard to outside interest group involvement or political endorsements.
