The Government's basic problem is that its policies aimed at promoting growth often tend to create short-term hardships for the black electorate.

Commentators have noted the growth of Alabama's black electorate, which Wallace now had to court.

But no matter who wins, they are proud that their primary represents the first significant word from the nation's black electorate.

For a while, it was a convenient way to keep on beating Republicans by angering the black electorate.

That counted as progress; in 2000, Bush drew the support of 8 percent of the black electorate.

Still, the black electorate, more politicized now than ever, continues to represent a real problem.

"But it may mobilize the black electorate, and that may be sufficient to win the nomination."

Some analysts depict him as an orator, with a broad appeal in the young, poor, and disadvantaged black electorate.

But at stake in today's election was the uncertain role and allegiances of the black electorate.

Mr. Ferrer's relations with the black electorate are considered important to his hopes for victory.