World's mind made up on US presidential race

WHEN Americans head to the polls on Nov 8 to elect the next president of the United States, they effectively select the de facto president of the world. And, history suggests, whoever becomes the next resident of the White House - Democrat Hillary Clinton or Republican Donald Trump - he or she will impact America's image, and thus US influence, around the world.

Of the two principal presidential candidates, Mrs Clinton is the better known outside the United States. Having served as US secretary of state from 2009 to early 2013, she enjoys the confidence of many in both Europe and Asia to do the right thing in world affairs, according to a recent survey of 15 nations by the Pew Research Center.

Majorities or pluralities in 12 of 14 European and Asian countries have faith in Mrs Clinton, including the Swedes, 83 per cent; Germans, 79 per cent; Australians, 70 per cent; Japanese, 70 per cent; and Canadians, 60 per cent. On the other hand, views of Mrs Clinton among the Chinese are much more divided, with 37 per cent saying they have confidence in her, 35 per cent saying they do not have confidence and 28 per cent with no opinion. And she is still little known in India, where a majority, 56 per cent, voices no opinion about her ability to act on world affairs.