Democrats gaining votes nationwide

In the fourth quarter of 2004, 36% of Americans identified themselves as Republicans. Now only 32% say they're (R)'s.
Gallups latest survey looks at which way independents lean and finds Democrats have a growing edge.

Democrats Gain Edge in Party Identification During Last Year
Fewer Americans identify as Republicans, more as independents

by Jeffrey M. Jones

GALLUP NEWS SERVICE - March 29, 2006

...In the most recent quarter, 49% of Americans identify as Democrats or lean to the Democratic Party, and 42% identify as Republicans or lean to the Republican Party. Democrats have held that same 49% to 42% advantage during each of the last three quarters. In the second quarter of 2005, Democrats had a slightly smaller 47% to 43% edge. At the beginning of 2005, the parties were at even strength on this measure.