Initial vote projections in the 2004 U.S. presidential election pointed to a narrow contest between Republican incumbent George W. Bush and Democratic challenger John Kerry. Two southern states, Virginia and South Carolina, which Bush had carried easily four years earlier, were declared too close to call, raising concerns for the president's reelection bid.
The pivotal states of Florida, Ohio, and Pennsylvania, whose combined electoral weight could determine the outcome, remained competitive. Senior Kerry advisers claimed their candidate was leading in Pennsylvania. Analysts noted that a historically high turnout, estimated at up to 120 million voters, could favor Kerry by bringing in younger and first-time voters.
Both candidates voted early and held campaign events on Election Day, each expressing confidence. Bush urged a clear, decisive result, saying, "I think it's very important for it to end tonight." Hundreds of lawyers from both parties stood ready to pursue legal challenges if results were disputed, recalling the prolonged Florida recount controversy that decided the 2000 race.
The campaign centered on national security, the 2003 Iraq invasion, and the broader fight against terrorism. Bush portrayed himself as a resolute wartime leader, while Kerry emphasized rebuilding alliances and argued that Iraq had diverted resources from counterterrorism efforts. Congressional seats were also at stake, with Republicans favored to retain control of the House.
Historical summary. TurkishPress restated this AFP wire report, first published in November 2004, in its own words.