 :  I think that African Americans as a group tend to vote for Democrats because the party is perceived to have been more devoted to issues that particularly affect African Americans as a group in recent history (affordable and quality healthcare, lowering the unemployment and poverty rate, civil rights legislation [particularly during and after the 1950s and 60s], and so forth).  The Republican has not had a strong civil rights reputation since the New Deal when the parties seem to have switched key playforms and attracted different constituencies.  This should be mentioned, but only if mentioned in context.  I'm not qualified to expand on this, so I hope someone else who is more knowledgeable does.  Kemet 13 April 2006.