Click the play button on the video window to the see the storyAn Arizona State University pollster said Wednesday it is conceivable Barack Obama could win Arizona, John McCain's home state.
"It is a tightening race," said Dr. Bruce Merrill, professor emeritus at ASU's Cronkite School of Journalism. "There is a possibility of the (Democrats) pulling it out."
Merrill said in the last poll taken by KAET-TV and the Cronkite School, McCain held a seven point lead over Obama.
However, Merrill says, the poll was conducted before the economic crisis unfolded. He expects the financial meltdown to shrink McCain's lead in Arizona by two to three points.
"I think McCain is still ahead," said Merrill. "But it could be as little as four points. It's a lot closer than people think."
Merrill claims the two population groups that will make the difference in Arizona are hispanics and voters under the age of 30.
"If they turn out in this election, it's clear it is possible McCain could lose this state," said Merrill.
"The Maricopa County Recorder is predicting an 82 to 84 percent turnout," added Merrill. "A higher turnout benefits Obama 2 to 1."
KAET-TV will conduct another poll beginning Thursday night, the results are expected to be announced Monday evening.
"The only poll that matters is on election day," said Merrill. "That's determined by who goes to the polls and who stays home."
