Poll: Celebrities don't influence voters

ENCINO, Calif., Oct. 24 (UPI) -- A U.S. survey conducted by E-Poll Market Research suggested celebrities don't influence people's views on political candidates.

Of the 2,237 voting-age U.S. residents who responded to the online survey, 16 percent said the endorsement of a candidate by a celebrity they admire would positively affect their perception of that candidate.

"When it comes to 'bread and butter' issues such as healthcare, national security and the economy, voters will turn to family, friends, civic/church leaders and their chosen media as influencers in their voting decisions," Gerry Philpott, E-Poll president/chief executive officer, said in a statement.

Asked to list celebrity endorsers who would have the strongest positive influence on their perceptions of the presidential candidates, respondents named Oprah Winfrey, George Clooney, Angelina Jolie, Arnold Schwarzenegger, Bono and Al Gore.

Ten percent of those asked would actually have a more negative perception of a candidate if backed by a celebrity -- even if they liked the celebrity.

The celebrities who might have the most negative impact for a candidate are Rosie O'Donnell, Tom Cruise, Madonna, Jane Fonda and Donald Trump.

Results of the poll based on the total sample are considered accurate at the 95 percent confidence level, within 2 percentage points.