5/8: Nearly Seven in Ten New Jersey Voters Applaud Christie’s Job Performance, Re-election Prospects Bright, But Not 2016

Six months after Hurricane Sandy, New Jersey residents are optimistic about their governor and the state in general.  Nearly seven in ten — 68% — approve of how Governor Chris Christie is doing his job.  24% disapprove, and 8% are unsure.  Registered voters share these views.  69% of registered voters give Christie a thumbs up as governor.  24% of voters disapprove, and 7% are unsure.

Click Here for Complete May 8, 2013 New Jersey NBC News/Marist Poll Release and Tables

“The key elements are in place for Governor Christie’s re-election…his high approval ratings, voters’ upbeat mood about the direction of the state, and, of course, his efforts following Hurricane Sandy,” says Dr. Lee M.  Miringoff, Director of The Marist College Institute for Public Opinion.  “This makes it extremely difficult for his Democratic challenger.”

The governor is lauded by residents for his handling of New Jersey’s recovery from Hurricane Sandy.  Eight in ten — 81% — approve of Christie’s hurricane recovery efforts.  13% disapprove and 5% are unsure.  56% also approve of how Christie is handling the state’s budget, and 33% disapprove.  11% are unsure.

Table: Governor Chris Christie Approval Rating (New Jersey Adults)

Table: Governor Chris Christie Hurricane Sandy Recovery Approval Rating (New Jersey Adults)

Table: Governor Chris Christie Budget Approval Rating (New Jersey Adults)

 

Many New Jersey residents view the state as on track.  62% believe it is moving in the right direction.  31% disagree and say New Jersey is on the wrong path.  Seven percent are unsure.

Table: Direction of New Jersey (New Jersey Adults)

Christie Leads Buono by More than Two-to-One in Governor’s Race

In the contest for New Jersey governor, Republican incumbent Chris Christie — 60% — outpaces Democratic State Senator Barbara Buono — 28% — by 32 percentage points among registered voters.  One percent supports another candidate, and 10% are undecided.  Among the probable electorate, including voters who are undecided yet leaning toward a candidate, Christie has 62% to 28% for Buono.  One percent supports another candidate and 9% are undecided.

Key points:

• Party ID.  Most Republicans — 94% — support Christie while only a slim majority of Democrats — 51% — back Buono.  Among independent voters in New Jersey, 64% are for Christie while 22% are behind Buono.
• Intensity of Support.  Among registered voters in New Jersey who have a candidate preference, 56% strongly support their choice of candidate.  30% are somewhat committed to their pick while 11% might vote differently.  Three percent are unsure.  Among Christie’s supporters, 57% are firmly behind him while 55% of Buono’s backers are strongly in her camp.
• Gender.  Among men, 66% are for Christie while 24% support Buono.  A majority of women — 56% — support Christie compared with 32% for Buono.   
• Age.  Christie is ahead of Buono among all age groups.  Christie — 63% — leads Buono — 26% — among voters 60 and older.  Christie — 58% — also outdistances Buono — 30% — among those 45 to 59.  Looking at those 30 to 44, 60% support Christie compared with 29% for Buono.  63% of voters under the age of 30 are for Christie while 29% are behind Buono.
• Past Vote. Christie also receives notable support from those who voted for President Obama last fall.  42% of Obama backers support Christie while 46% support Democrat Buono.  32% of those who voted for Jon Corzine, the Democratic candidate in the 2009 gubernatorial race, now support Christie. 55% of Corzine voters plan to vote for Buono.

More than six in ten registered voters — 61% — are satisfied with the candidates running for governor in November while 28% are not satisfied with the candidates from which they have to choose.  11% are unsure.

Table: 2013 Gubernatorial Tossup (New Jersey Registered Voters)

Table: Intensity of Support (New Jersey Registered Voters with a Candidate Preference)

Table: Satisfied with Candidates Running for Governor (New Jersey Registered Voters)

Two-Thirds Have a Favorable Opinion of Christie…Buono Largely Unknown

Governor Chris Christie is perceived well by 67% of New Jersey residents.  28% have an unfavorable opinion of him, and 5% are unsure.  Registered voters have similar impressions.  68% of voters have a favorable view of the governor, 27% have an unfavorable one, and 4% are unsure.

However, Buono is little-known in the state.  Only 23% have a favorable view of Buono while 18% have an unfavorable impression of her.  Most residents statewide — 59% — have either never heard of Buono or are unsure how to rate her.  Buono is not much better known among registered voters.  24% of voters have a favorable impression of her, 18% have an unfavorable view, but 57% have either never heard of her or are unsure how to rate her.

Table: New Jersey Governor Chris Christie Favorability (New Jersey Adults)

Table: New Jersey State Senator Barbara Buono Favorability (New Jersey Adults)

Majority Says Christie Should Not Run for President in 2016

Despite his popularity, when talk turns to a possible presidential run, 55% of New Jersey registered voters do not want Christie to throw his hat into the ring.  34% believe Christie should run for president, and 12% are unsure.

By Party:

• Among Republicans, 50% would like to see Christie run for President.  34% do not want him in the race, and 15% are unsure.
• 26% of Democrats want Christie in the presidential contest, but 64% do not.  Nine percent are unsure.
• 32% of independents want the governor in the 2016 race.  56% do not, and 12% are unsure.
• Among Tea Party supporters, 34% support a Christie 2016 run, and 55% are opposed to it. 11% are unsure.

In fact, in a hypothetical 2016 presidential match-up with former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton, Christie trails Clinton, 41% to 52% among New Jersey voters.  Six percent are undecided.

Christie bests Vice President Joe Biden for president, 51% to 40%, among registered voters in the state.  Eight percent are undecided.

Table: Should Governor Chris Christie Run for President? (New Jersey Registered Voters)

Table: Christie vs. Clinton 2016 Toss-Up (New Jersey Registered Voters)

Table: Christie vs. Biden 2016 Toss-Up (New Jersey Registered Voters)

45% Approve of Job Senator Menendez is Doing in Office, 38% Believe He Acted Unethically in Donor Dust-Up

A plurality of residents — 45% — approve of the job Senator Robert Menendez is doing in office. 31% disapprove, and 24% are unsure. Registered voters have similar opinions.  46% of voters in the state rate Senator Menendez positively, 32% rate him negatively, and 22% are unsure.  Nearly two-thirds of Democrats — 65% — give the senator high marks, whereas 25% of Republicans and 39% of Independents say the same.

Opinion is divided about the investigation of Senator Menendez’ ties to a wealthy donor.  14% of New Jersey residents believe he did nothing wrong while 38% think he did something unethical but not illegal.  16% say he did something illegal. One-third — 33% — are unsure.

Table: Senator Robert Menendez Approval Rating (New Jersey Adults)

Table: Senator Menendez Ties to Wealthy Donor (New Jersey Adults)

Majority of New Jersey Residents Approve of Obama, Democratic Party, But GOP Doesn’t Fare So Well

President Obama has the approval of 57% of New Jersey residents.  38% disapprove of the job the president is doing in office, and 6% are unsure.  Similar proportions of registered voters share these views.  56% of voters approve of the president’s job performance, 38% disapprove, and 5% are unsure.  Among Democrats in the state, 88% give Obama a thumbs up, and 8% disapprove.  78% of Republicans, however, disapprove of the President’s job, and 16% approve.  Independents divide — 48% approve and 45% disapprove.  61% of residents view Obama favorably while 36% do not.  Three percent are unsure.  Registered voters agree.  60% approve of the job the president is doing, 37% disapprove, and 3% are unsure.

Table: President Barack Obama Approval Rating (New Jersey Adults)

Table: President Barack Obama Favorability Rating (New Jersey Adults)

The Democratic Party is viewed favorably by a slim majority — 51% — of New Jersey residents.  42% have an unfavorable impression of the party, and 7% are unsure.  Registered voters parallel these impressions.  50% of voters have a positive view, 43% have a negative one, and 6% are unsure.

The Republican Party is not highly regarded.  33% have a favorable view of the party while 58% of New Jersey residents view the party unfavorably.  Nine percent are unsure.  There is little difference in opinion among registered voters.  34% of voters have a favorable opinion, 59% do not, and 7% are unsure.

Table: Democratic Party Favorability Rating (New Jersey Adults)

Table: Republican Party Favorability Rating (New Jersey Adults)

Sequester Cuts Not Affecting Most, Two-Thirds Want Stricter Gun Laws

Nearly two-thirds of New Jersey residents — 65% — report they are not experiencing much impact personally from the federal spending cuts triggered by the sequester on March 1^st.  Seven percent say they have been affected a great deal, and 8% have been affected quite a bit.  16% have only been affected some, and 4% are unsure.

A plurality of New Jersey residents — 42% — say the sequester cuts will hurt the economy.  29% believe the cuts will have no impact, and 18% think the cuts will be good for the economy.  11% are unsure.

Table: Personal Impact of Automatic Spending Cuts (New Jersey Adults)

Table: Impact of Automatic Spending Cuts on the Economy (New Jersey Adults)

Most New Jersey residents think laws covering the sale of firearms should be stricter.  67% hold this view while 24% say current gun laws are sufficient.  Six percent say the laws should be less strict, and 3% are unsure.  Registered voters share these views.  Among gun owners, a plurality — 48% — believes gun laws should be kept as they are now, and 38% want stricter laws.  12% of gun owners think the laws should be less strict, and 2% are unsure.

Table: Gun Law Covering the Sale of Firearms (New Jersey Adults)

How the Survey was Conducted

Nature of the Sample

 

5/8: Tight Race for Governor in Virginia

In the race for governor in Virginia, Democrat Terry McAuliffe — 43% — and Republican Ken Cuccinelli — 41% — are in a close contest among registered voters including those who are undecided yet leaning toward a candidate.  One percent are for another candidate, and 16% are undecided.

Among the probable electorate, including voters who are undecided yet leaning toward a candidate, Cuccinelli has 45% to 42% for McAulifffe.  13% are undecided.

Click Here for Complete May 8th, 2013 Virginia NBC News/Marist Poll Release and Tables

“The contest is close, the candidates are not well defined, and they still need to connect with voters,” says Dr. Lee M.  Miringoff, Director of The Marist College Institute for Public Opinion.  “But, keep an eye on those who say they are going to vote.”

Key points:

• Party ID.  There is a wide partisan divide.  91% of registered Democrats support McAuliffe while 91% of registered Republicans back Cuccinelli.  Among independent voters statewide, Cuccinelli — 36% — and McAuliffe — 36% — are locked in a dead heat.  However, a notable proportion of independent voters — 27% — are undecided.
• Intensity of Support.  50% of registered voters in Virginia who prefer a candidate are strongly committed to their choice.  33% are somewhat behind their pick while 13% might vote differently.  Four percent are unsure.  Looking at the candidates’ supporters, 53% of those behind Cuccinelli strongly support him.  This compares with only 47% of McAuliffe’s backers who express a similar degree of support.
• Gender.  There is a wide gender gap.  McAuliffe — 50% — leads Cuccinelli — 34% — among women.  14% of women voters are undecided.  However, Cuccinelli — 49% — is ahead of McAuliffe — 34% — among men.  17% are undecided.
• Age.  McAuliffe — 48% — has the advantage over Cuccinelli — 35% — among registered voters under the age of 30.  Among those 30 to 44 years old, Cuccinelli receives 44% to 37% for McAuliffe.  Looking at those 45 to 59 McAuliffe has 45% to 41% for Cuccinelli.  Among Virginia registered voters 60 and older, McAuliffe — 43% — and Cuccinelli — 42% — are neck and neck.

Table: 2013 Gubernatorial Tossup (Virginia Registered Voters including leaners)

Table: Intensity of Support (Virginia Registered Voters with a Candidate Preference)

Slim Majority Satisfied with the Field

52% of Virginia registered voters are satisfied with the candidates from which they have to choose for governor this year.  One-quarter — 25% — are not satisfied, and 23% are unsure.  About six in ten Democrats — 58% — and Republicans — 61% — are satisfied while only a plurality of independents — 42% — feel the same.

Table: Satisfied with Gubernatorial Candidates (Virginia Registered Voters)

More Information Needed about Candidates, Say Many

Looking at the favorability ratings of the candidates, 31% of residents have a positive impression of McAuliffe.  23% have an unfavorable opinion of him, and a plurality — 46% — have either never heard of him or are unsure how to rate him.  Registered voters have similar impressions.  32% of voters have a positive impression, 24% have a negative one, and 44% have either never heard of McAuliffe or are unsure how to rate him.

While Cuccinelli is better known among Virginians, he also needs to improve his standing.  40% have a favorable view of Cuccinelli while 26% have an unfavorable one.  34% have either never heard of him or are unsure how to rate him.  Similar proportions of registered voters share these impressions.  42% of voters have a favorable view of Cuccinelli, 27% have an unfavorable one, and 32% have either never heard of him or are unsure how to rate him.

Table: McAuliffe Favorability (Virginia Adults)

Table: Cuccinelli Favorability (Virginia Adults)

Impressions of the Candidates

How do Virginia residents compare the gubernatorial candidates?

• 27% of adults think McAuliffe is too liberal.  Five percent say he is too conservative, and 32% think he is about right.  Almost four in ten though — 36% — are unsure where he stands politically.
• As for Cuccinelli, 6% of state residents see him as too liberal while 25% think he’s too conservative.  38% say he is about right while more than three in ten — 31% — are unsure how to assess him ideologically.
• When asked which candidate better understands the problems of people like themselves, 33% give Cuccinelli the nod and 29% pick McAuliffe.  31% are unsure.
• Who do Virginians trust more to do what’s best for the state?  37% choose Cuccinelli while 31% say McAuliffe.  26% are unsure.
• When it comes to social issues such as abortion, 31% of adults say Cuccinelli is closer to their position, and 30% say the same about McAuliffe.  34% are unsure.
• Residents divide about which candidate cares more about the middle class.  30% select Cuccinelli.  McAuliffe is the choice of 29%, and 34% are unsure.
• Which candidate do residents say shares their values?  Cuccinelli — 34% — has the advantage over McAuliffe — 28%.  31%, however, are unsure.

Table: McAuliffe Ideology (Virginia Adults)

Table: Cuccinelli Ideology (Virginia Adults)

Table: Candidate that Better Understands Problems (Virginia Adults)

Table: Candidate Trust More to Do What’s Best for Virginia (Virginia Adults)

Table: Candidate that is Closer on Social Issues (Virginia Adults)

Table: Candidate that Cares More About the Middle Class (Virginia Adults)

Table: Candidate that Shares Values (Virginia Adults)

Cuccinelli’s Performance as Attorney General

How do Virginia residents think Cuccinelli is doing as the state’s Attorney General?  49% approve while 23% disapprove.  28% are unsure.  Among registered voters, a majority — 51% — approve, 24% disapprove, and 25% are unsure.

By party, 74% of Republicans approve of the job Cuccinelli is doing in office, and only 6% disapprove.  49% of independent voters have a positive impression of the job Cuccinelli is doing as Attorney General, and 25% have a negative one.  Among Democrats, a plurality — 41% — disapprove while 32% approve.

Table: Cuccinelli Approval Rating (Virginia Adults)

Six in Ten Approve of McDonnell’s Job Performance

60% of Virginia adults approve of the job Governor Bob McDonnell is doing in office.  22% disapprove, and 18% are unsure.  Registered voters have similar views.  61% of registered voters give McDonnell a thumbs up.  24% of voters disapprove, and 15% are unsure.

When the NBC News/Marist Poll last reported this question in March 2012, 51% of registered voters in Virginia approved of the job he was doing in office.  30% disapproved, and 19% were unsure.

58% of Virginia adults currently have a favorable impression of McDonnell.  23% have an unfavorable one, and 19% are unsure.  Registered voters parallel these views.  60% of voters have a positive opinion of the governor, 24% have a negative one, and 16% are unsure.

Table: Governor Bob McDonnell Approval Rating (Virginia Adults)

Table: Governor Bob McDonnell Favorability (Virginia Adults)

Virginians Wouldn’t Mind Another Term for Governor McDonnell, But Say “No” to 2016 Prez Run

If Bob McDonnell was not limited to one term as governor, he would be the favorite for re-election against Democratic candidate Terry McAuliffe.  In a hypothetical matchup, Governor McDonnell receives the support of 51% to 36% for McAuliffe among all registered voters.  One percent chooses another candidate, and 12% are undecided.

McDonnell’s gubernatorial support among voters in Virginia does not carry over to a bid for president.  58% of voters statewide do not want McDonnell to run for president in 2016.    24% would like to see him make a run, and 18% are unsure.  Democrats — 73% — and independents — 59% — do not support a McDonnell presidential run.  Republicans divide.  41% of registered Republican voters would like to see him on the presidential campaign trail while 43% would not.

How does McDonnell fare against Democrats Hillary Clinton and Joe Biden?  In a hypothetical matchup, Hillary Clinton — 52% — has the advantage over Bob McDonnell — 41% — among registered voters in the state.  Seven percent are undecided.

In fact, 60% of Virginia residents have a favorable impression of Hillary Clinton.  33% have an unfavorable view, and 7% are unsure.  There is little difference of opinion among registered voters.  60% of voters have a positive impression of Hillary Clinton, 34% have a negative one, and 6% are unsure.

In contrast, when matched against Joe Biden, McDonnell receives the support of 49% to Biden’s 42%.  Nine percent are undecided.

Table: Hypothetical 2013 Toss Up McAuliffe/McDonnell (Virginia Registered Voters)

Table: Want Bob McDonnell to Run for President in 2016? (Virginia Registered Voters)

Table: Hypothetical 2016 Toss Up Clinton/McDonnell (Virginia Registered Voters)

Table: Hillary Clinton Favorability (Virginia Adults)

Table: Hypothetical 2016 Toss Up Biden/McDonnell (Virginia Registered Voters)

Six in Ten Optimistic About the Direction of the State

60% of Virginia residents think the state is moving in the right direction.  33%, however, believe it needs a new course.  Seven percent are unsure.  Registered voters share similar views.  61% of registered voters think Virginia is on the correct course, and 32% say the state is headed in the wrong direction.  Seven percent are unsure.

Table: Direction of Virginia (Virginia Adults)

Majority Approve of Obama’s Performance and Like Him, Too; Political Parties Not as Popular

A slim majority of Virginia residents — 51% — approve of the job the president is doing in office.  45% disapprove, and 4% are unsure.  Registered voters reflect the views of adults.

Similarly, 53% of residents have a favorable impression of the president while 43% have an unfavorable impression of him.  Three percent are unsure.  Registered voters agree.  54% have a favorable view of the president, 44% have an unfavorable opinion, and 3% are unsure.

The Democratic and Republican parties do not fare as well.  44% of Virginians have a favorable impression of the Democratic Party.  45% give the party a thumbs down. 11% are unsure.  The opinions of registered voters differ little from residents.  44% have a positive view of the Democratic Party, 46% have a negative one, and 10% are unsure.

As for the GOP, only 36% of residents have a favorable opinion of the Republican Party.   A majority of Virginia residents — 52% — have an unfavorable view.  12% are unsure.  Registered voters concur.  37% have a positive view of the Republican Party, 53% have a negative impression, and 11% are unsure.

Table: Obama Approval Rating (Virginia Adults)

Table: Obama Favorability (Virginia Adults)

Table: Democratic Party Favorability (Virginia Adults)

Table: Republican Party Favorability (Virginia Adults)

Stricter Gun Laws Say Majority

55% of Virginia residents think laws covering the sale of firearms should be stricter than they are now.  Six percent say they should be less strict while 36% think they should be kept as they are.  Three percent are unsure.

Gun owners feel differently.  Nearly six in ten — 57% — want gun laws to remain as they are.  30% of gun owners think laws covering the sale of firearms should be stricter, and 11% would prefer these laws be less strict.  Two percent are unsure.

Table: Gun Law Covering the Sale of Firearms (Virginia Adults)

Across-the-Board Spending Cuts No Personal Impact for Majority, But Hurt Economy

Although a majority — 54% — of Virginia residents say the across-the-board automatic spending cuts that went into effect on March 1^st have not had an impact on them or their family, personally, 43% say they have felt at least some impact from the cuts.  This includes 12% who say the cuts have impacted them a great deal, 10% who say quite a bit, and 21% who report some impact.  Three percent are unsure.

Almost half — 49% — think these cuts will mostly hurt the economy.  18% think the across-the-board cuts will help the economy, and 26% think they will have no impact.  Eight percent are unsure.

Table: Personal Impact of Automatic Spending Cuts (Virginia Adults)

Table: Impact of Automatic Spending Cuts on the Economy (Virginia Adults)

 

How the Survey was Conducted

Nature of the Sample

 

6/28: Obama and Romney Tied in New Hampshire

President Barack Obama and Mitt Romney are locked in the contest for New Hampshire’s four electoral votes.  Among registered voters including those who are undecided yet leaning toward a candidate, Obama has the support of 45% while the same proportion — 45% — backs Romney.  One percent is behind another candidate, and 8% are undecided.

“The Granite State is on the radar screen of both the Obama and Romney campaigns,” says Dr. Lee M. Miringoff, Director of The Marist College Institute for Public Opinion.  “The state is one that can potentially get them across the finish line.”

Click Here for Complete June 28, 2012 New Hampshire NBC News/Marist Poll Release

Click Here for Complete June 28, 2012 New Hampshire NBC News/Marist Poll Tables

Key points:

• President Obama receives the support of most Democrats – 90% — while Romney is favored among most Republicans – 91%.
• Among independent voters, 44% are for Romney compared with 42% for Obama.
• Looking at those who have an excellent or good chance of voting in November, voters divide.  46% back Romney while the president has the support of 45%.
• Romney — 51% — leads Obama — 44% — among registered voters in New Hampshire who express a high level of enthusiasm about the presidential election.  However, Obama — 56% — has the advantage over Romney — 37% — among those who are moderately enthusiastic.  When it comes to those who have a low level of enthusiasm, Romney — 45% — is ahead of Obama — 30%.
• Looking at interest in the presidential contest, Romney — 47% — and the president — 45% — are neck and neck among voters with a high interest.
• Obama receives majority support — 53% — among those who strongly support their choice of candidate.  Romney garners 47%.
• A gender gap exists.  51% of men support Romney while 40% are behind Obama. However, half of women — 50% — back Obama compared with 40% who are for Romney.
• The president — 55% — has the advantage over Romney — 35% — among voters under the age of 30.  Among those 30 to 44 years old, Romney receives 47% while Obama garners 42%.  Obama — 45% — and Romney — 45% — are tied among voters 45 to 59 divide.    Among those 60 and older, 48% back Romney while 44% support the president.

Table: 2012 Presidential Tossup (NH Registered Voters with Leaners)

Talking Intensity…More than Seven in Ten Strongly Support Candidate

73% of registered voters in New Hampshire say they are firmly in their candidate’s camp.  21% somewhat support their choice of candidate while 5% might change their mind before Election Day.  One percent is unsure.

Key points:

• 77% of Obama’s backers report they will not waver in their commitment to the president.  This compares with 70% of Romney’s supporters who say the same.

Table: Intensity of Support (NH Registered Voters)

Ayotte on Ticket Does Not Help Romney

If Romney asked New Hampshire Senator Kelly Ayotte to be his running mate, 43% would support Romney and Ayotte while 45% would back President Obama and Vice President Joe Biden.  Two percent would be for another candidate, and 10% are undecided.

Table: 2012 Presidential Tossup with VPs: Obama/Biden against Romney/Ayotte (NH Registered Voters)

More than Seven in Ten Enthusiastic to Vote

46% of registered voters in New Hampshire are very enthusiastic about going to the polls in November, and 31% are somewhat enthusiastic.  17% are not too enthusiastic about voting, and 6% are not enthusiastic at all.

Key points:

• A majority of Romney’s backers — 52% — express a high level of enthusiasm about casting their ballot.  This compares with 45% of President Obama’s supporters who express a similar level of enthusiasm.

Table: Enthusiasm to Vote (NH Registered Voters)

Obama’s Job Performance at 47% in New Hampshire

Voters in New Hampshire divide about the president’s job performance.  47% approve of how Obama is doing in office.  This compares with 45% who disapprove, and 8% who are unsure.

When NBC News/Marist last reported this question in January, just prior to the Republican presidential primary, 40% of registered voters in New Hampshire approved of how the president was doing his job.  49% disapproved, and 10%, at that time, were unsure.

Table: President Obama Approval Rating in New Hampshire (NH Registered Voters)

Half View Obama Favorably, Divide about Romney’s Image

President Obama is perceived favorably by 50% of New Hampshire voters.  This compares with 44% who have a lesser view of him, and 6% who are unsure.

When it comes to Romney’s favorability, 45% have a positive opinion of him while the same proportion — 45% — has an unfavorable view of Romney.  10% are unsure.

Table: President Barack Obama Favorability (NH Registered Voters)

Table: Mitt Romney Favorability (NH Registered Voters)

46% View Romney as Better on Economy, Obama Perceived Stronger on Foreign Policy

A plurality of registered voters — 46% — say Romney will do a better job handling the nation’s economy.  42% think the president will.  13% are unsure.

When it comes to foreign policy, nearly half — 49% — report Obama will do a better job in this area while 39% believe Romney is the candidate who will excel.  13% are unsure.

Table: Candidate Who Will Do a Better Job Handling the Economy (NH Registered Voters)

Table: Candidate Who Will Do a Better Job Handling Foreign Policy (NH Registered Voters)

Nearly Six in Ten Say Economic Conditions Are Inherited

58% of New Hampshire voters think President Obama inherited the nation’s economic conditions.  32% believe they are a result of his policies.  10% are unsure.

A majority of voters express optimism about the future of the economy.  55% think there are better economic days ahead while 35% report the worst is still to come.  Nine percent are unsure.

Table: Current Economic Conditions Inherited (NH Registered Voters)

Table: U.S. Economy — Will It Get Worse? (NH Registered Voters)

Country Has Lost Course, Say Almost Six in Ten

57% of voters in New Hampshire say, in general, things in the nation need to get back on track.  37% believe the U.S. is on the right road, and 6% are unsure.

Table: Right or Wrong Direction of the Country (NH Registered Voters)

How the Survey was Conducted

Nature of the Sample

6/28: Obama and Romney in Close Contest in North Carolina

President Barack Obama and Mitt Romney are competitive in the presidential contest in North Carolina.  Among registered voters including those who are undecided yet leaning toward a candidate, 46% support Obama while 44% favor Romney.  One percent backs another candidate, and 9% are undecided.

“In 2008, President Obama narrowly edged out John McCain in the state,” says Dr. Lee M. Miringoff, Director of The Marist College Institute for Public Opinion.  “The electorate is similarly divided this presidential contest.”

Click Here for Complete June 28, 2012 North Carolina NBC News/Marist Poll Release

Click Here for Complete June 28, 2012 North Carolina News/Marist Poll Tables

Key points:

• By party, 82% of Democrats are behind Obama while 91% of Republicans back Romney.
• Romney carries independent voters.  Romney receives 47% compared with 38% for Obama.
• Most voters who say they are strong Democrats — 91% — back the president.  However, Mr. Obama loses support among those who identify as soft Democrats, registered voters who are not strong Democrats or Democratic leaning independents.  Among this group, 69% are for the president while about one in five — 21% — is for Romney.  Among those who say they are just independent, Romney — 40% — leads Obama — 29%.  However, a notable 25% of these voters are unsure.  97% of strong Republicans favor Romney.  Among soft Republicans, Romney loses some ground, but still has the backing of 82%.
• Looking at those who have an excellent or good chance of voting, the electorate divides.  47% support Obama while 45% favor Romney.
• The president — 52% — leads Romney — 43% — among registered voters in North Carolina who express a high level of enthusiasm about the presidential election.  Voters who are moderately enthusiastic divide.  46% are for Mr. Obama while 44% are behind Mr. Romney.  Romney — 46% — has the advantage among voters who have a low degree of enthusiasm.  Here, the president receives 32%.
• Among voters in North Carolina who have a high level of interest in the presidential contest, half — 50% — back the president while Romney receives 44%.
• 57% of voters who strongly support their choice of candidate support Obama while 43% are for Romney.
• Romney receives the support of 48% of men compared with 45% for Obama.  Among women, Obama — 47% — is ahead of Romney — 41%.
• President Obama — 57% — leads Romney — 35% — among voters under the age of 30.  The president — 47% — is also ahead of Romney — 40% — among voters 30 to 44.  Older voters divide.  Romney receives the support of 48% of voters 45 to 59 years old while Obama garners 45%.  Among voters 60 and older, 45% back Romney while 44% support the president.

Table: 2012 Presidential Tossup (NC Registered Voters with Leaners)

Nearly Three in Four Firmly in Candidate’s Camp

73% of registered voters in North Carolina strongly support their choice of candidate.  21% are somewhat behind their pick while 4% report they might change their minds.  Two percent are unsure.

Key points:

• Among voters who are for President Obama, 80% strongly support him.  66% of Romney’s backers have a similar degree of support.

Table: Intensity of Support (NC Registered Voters)

Nearly Half Express High Level of Enthusiasm about Voting

Looking at voters’ degree of enthusiasm, 48% say they are very enthusiastic about casting their ballot in the fall.  32% are somewhat enthusiastic, and 13% are not too enthusiastic.  Six percent are not enthusiastic at all.

Key points:

• A majority of President Obama’s backers — 56% — are very enthusiastic.  This compares with 48% of Romney’s supporters who have a similar level of support.

Table: Enthusiasm to Vote (NC Registered Voters)

Voters Divide about Obama’s Job Performance

47% of registered voters in North Carolina approve of the job President Obama is doing in office.  The same proportion — 47% — disapproves, and 6% are unsure.

Table: President Obama Approval Rating in North Carolina (NC Registered Voters)

Split Decision on Favorability

When it comes to favorability, 48% of voters think well of President Obama.  However, 45% have an unfavorable impression of him, and 7% percent are unsure.

Voters also divide about Romney’s image.  While 40% have a favorable impression of the candidate, 42% have an unfavorable one.  18% are unsure.

Table: President Barack Obama Favorability (NC Registered Voters)

Table: Mitt Romney Favorability (NC Registered Voters)

Candidates Both Viewed As Capable On Economy, Obama Tops on Foreign Policy

43% of voters believe President Obama is the candidate who will better handle the nation’s economy.  The same proportion — 43% — says Romney will more effectively manage the issue.  14% are unsure.

On foreign policy, nearly half — 48% — think Obama will better handle that policy area.  This compares with 37% who say Romney is the stronger candidate.  15% are unsure.

Table: Candidate Who Will Do a Better Job Handling the Economy (NC Registered Voters)

Table: Candidate Who Will Do a Better Job Handling Foreign Policy (NC Registered Voters)

Obama Inherited Economy, Says Majority

55% of voters statewide believe President Obama inherited the nation’s tentative economic conditions from his predecessor.  This compares with 33% who report the president’s policies are mostly to blame.  12% are unsure.

When it comes to the future of the nation’s economy, 49% say the worst is over.  41% believe the worst is still ahead, and 10% are unsure.

Table: Current Economic Conditions Inherited (NC Registered Voters)

Table: U.S. Economy — Will It Get Worse? (NC Registered Voters)

56% Think Country’s Compass is Broken

When it comes to the direction of the country, 56% of voters believe things in the nation have fallen off track.  36%, however, think things are moving in the right direction.  Eight percent are unsure.

Table: Right or Wrong Direction of the Country (NC Registered Voters)

McCrory and Dalton Competitive in Governor’s Race

In the race for North Carolina governor, Republican Pat McCrory receives the support of 43% of voters.  This compares with 41% who are behind Democrat Walter Dalton.  17% are undecided.

Table: 2012 North Carolina Governor’s Race: Dalton/McCrory (NC Registered Voters with Leaners)

How the Survey was Conducted

Nature of the Sample

6/28: Obama Edges Romney in Michigan

In the battle for Michigan’s 16 electoral votes, President Barack Obama receives 47% to 43% for Mitt Romney among registered voters including those who are undecided yet leaning toward a candidate.  One percent supports another candidate, and 10% are undecided.

“Romney may be Michigan’s native son, but it’s Obama who is scoring points on likeability,” says Dr. Lee M. Miringoff, Director of The Marist College Institute for Public Opinion.  “Despite Obama’s edge in the state, the president is still below fifty and is running substantially behind what he got four years ago.”

Click Here for Complete June 28, 2012 Michigan NBC News/Marist Poll Release

Click Here for Complete June 28, 2012 Michigan NBC News/Marist Poll Tables

Key points:

• Looking at party, most Democrats — 89% — back Obama while most Republicans — 92% — favor Romney.
• Independent voters divide.  44% are for Romney while 41% are for the president.
• 95% of those who describe themselves as strong Democrats back the president.  Among soft Democrats — voters who are not strong Democrats or Democratic leaning independents — 78% are for Obama.  When it comes to those who say they are just independents, 38% are for Romney compared with 35% for Obama.  A notable 26% are undecided.  96% of strong Republicans are for Romney.  Among those who identify as soft Republicans, 86% support Romney.
• Among those who have an excellent or good chance of voting in November, Obama has the support of 47% while Romney receives 43%.
• A majority — 54% — of registered voters who express a high level of enthusiasm about the presidential election are for Mr. Obama compared with 42% for Romney.  Obama edges Romney among those who are moderately enthusiastic.  47% support the president while 43% back Romney.  Among voters who have a low degree of enthusiasm, Romney leads 44% to 32% for Obama.
• Voters in Michigan who have a high level of interest in the presidential contest divide.  48% are behind Obama while Romney garners 45% of the vote.
• Nearly six in ten voters who strongly support their choice of candidate — 59% — are for Obama.  This compares with 41% who support Romney.
• 45% of male voters support Romney while 42% favor Obama.  The president — 50% — has the advantage over Romney — 41% — among female voters.
• Among voters under the age of 30, President Obama — 53% — outpaces Romney — 38%.  The president — 49% — also leads Romney — 39% — among those 30 to 44 years old.  Those 45 to 59 divide.  45% support the president while 43% are for Romney.  Among those 60 and older, 48% back Romney while 43% are behind the president.

Table: 2012 Presidential Tossup (MI Registered Voters with Leaners)

Nearly Seven in Ten Strongly Committed to Candidate

Looking at intensity of support, 69% of registered voters in Michigan strongly support their choice of candidate.  About one in four — 24% — is somewhat committed to their pick while 5% report they might vote differently.  Two percent are unsure.

Key points:

• 78% of voters who are for Obama are strongly committed to him.  This compares with 60% of Romney’s backers who have a similar level of support.

Table: Intensity of Support (MI Registered Voters)

41% Very Enthusiastic About Going to Polls in November

More than four in ten registered voters in Michigan — 41% — say they are very enthusiastic about voting in November’s presidential election.  37% are somewhat enthusiastic while 15% are not too enthusiastic about casting their ballot.  Seven percent are not enthusiastic at all.

Key points:

• 49% of Obama’s supporters express a high level of enthusiasm about voting while 41% of Romney’s backers share this degree of enthusiasm.

Table: Enthusiasm to Vote (MI Registered Voters)

Obama Approval Rating at 48% in Michigan

When it comes to how President Obama is doing in office, nearly half of registered voters in the state — 48% — approve of his performance.  42% disapprove, and 10% are unsure.

When NBC News/Marist last reported this question in February, 51% of registered voters statewide gave the president high marks while 38% reported he missed the mark.  11%, at the time, were unsure.

Table: President Obama Approval Rating in Michigan (MI Registered Voters)

A Tale of Two Favorability Ratings

A slim majority of voters — 51% — have a favorable view of President Obama.  41% have an unfavorable one, and 8% are unsure.

Romney fares less favorably in his home state.  While 37% view Romney positively, 43% do not, and 19% are unsure.

Table: President Barack Obama Favorability (MI Registered Voters)

Table: Mitt Romney Favorability (MI Registered Voters)

Obama, Romney Vie for Supremacy on Economy…Obama Bests on Foreign Policy

Which candidate do Michigan voters think is better skilled to handle the economy?  They divide.  44% believe Obama will do a better job on this issue while 42% think Romney is better equipped to do so.  14% are unsure.

When it comes to foreign policy, half of registered voters — 50% — report Obama is the stronger candidate.  34% report Romney will do a better job, and 16% are unsure.

Table: Candidate Who Will Do a Better Job Handling the Economy (MI Registered Voters)

Table: Candidate Who Will Do a Better Job Handling Foreign Policy (MI Registered Voters)

Economic Conditions Viewed by Nearly Six in Ten as Inherited

57% of voters in Michigan say President Obama inherited the nation’s current economic conditions.  About one-third — 33% — say they are a result of the president’s policies, and 11% are unsure.

A majority of voters are optimistic about the future of the U.S. economy.  55% believe the worst of the country’s economic conditions are behind us while 35% say the worst is yet to come.  10% are unsure.

This is little changed from NBC News/Marist’s February survey when 55% of registered voters in Michigan believed there were brighter economic days ahead, 37% reported there was more bad news on the horizon, and 8% were unsure.

Table: Current Economic Conditions Inherited (MI Registered Voters)

Table: U.S. Economy — Will It Get Worse? (MI Registered Voters)

Nation Needs Course Correction, Says 55%

55% of voters believe things in the country are off on the wrong track.  This compares with 38% who think they are on the right path.  Six percent are unsure.

Table: Right or Wrong Direction of the Country (MI Registered Voters)

Stabenow Leads Hoekstra for Senate Seat

In the race for U.S. Senate in Michigan, Democratic incumbent Debbie Stabenow receives the support of 49% of registered voters statewide.  Her Republican opponent, Pete Hoekstra, garners 37% of the vote.  14% are undecided.

When NBC News/Marist last reported this question in February, 53% backed Stabenow while 32% were for Hoekstra.  15%, at the time, were undecided.

Table: 2012 U.S. Senate Tossup in Michigan: Hoekstra/Stabenow (MI Registered Voters with Leaners)

How the Survey was Conducted

Nature of the Sample

5/31: Obama and Romney Tied in Iowa

In Iowa, President Barack Obama and Mitt Romney are in a dead heat.  Among registered voters including those who are undecided yet leaning toward a candidate, Obama receives 44% while Romney garners the same proportion — 44%.  Two percent support another candidate, and 10% are undecided.

“Both Obama and Romney are far from fifty percent in Iowa and have a lot of ground to cover,” says Dr. Lee M. Miringoff, Director of The Marist College Institute for Public Opinion.  “But, Obama’s supporters are less enthusiastic and less interested than Romney’s, and this poses a special problem for the incumbent president.”

Click Here for Complete May 31, 2012 Iowa NBC News/Marist Poll Release

Click Here for Complete May 31, 2012 Iowa NBC News/Marist Poll Tables

Key points:

• By party, 82% of Democrats are behind Obama while 83% of Republicans back Romney.
• Among independent voters, Obama — 42% — and Romney — 38% — are locked in a tight contest.
• Voters who have an excellent or good chance of voting in November divide.  46% are for Romney while 45% are for the president.
• Among those who express a high level of enthusiasm about the presidential election, a majority of voters — 51% — are behind Romney while Obama receives 43%.  However, Obama receives majority support — 53% — among those who are moderately enthusiastic.  Among these voters, Romney garners 40%.  Voters with a low degree of enthusiasm divide.  38% back Mr. Romney compared with 35% for Mr. Obama.
• Nearly half of those with a high level of interest in the presidential contest — 48% — are for Romney compared with 42% for the president.  Among those who express a moderate degree of interest, the president — 50% — leads Romney — 37%.  45% of Iowa voters who have low interest in the election are for Obama while 40% are for Romney.
• A majority of voters who strongly support their choice of candidate — 54% — are for Obama compared with 46% for Romney.
• There is a gender gap.  49% of men throw their support behind Romney while 40% are for Obama.  Among women, Obama has 48% to 39% for Romney.
• President Obama carries Iowa voters under the age of 30.  Here, he receives 50% to 40% for Romney.  The candidates are neck and neck among older voters.  Voters between 30 and 44 back Romney 44% to 42% for Obama.  Among those 45 to 59, 45% support Romney while 44% are for Obama.  Looking at those 60 and older, 44% rally for Obama while the same proportion — 44% — backs Obama.

Table: 2012 Presidential Tossup (IA Registered Voters with Leaners)

About Two-Thirds Strongly Committed to Candidate

67% of registered voters report they strongly support their choice of candidate while 25% are somewhat committed to their choice.  Seven percent might cast their ballot differently come November, and 2% are unsure.

Key points:

• More than seven in ten Obama supporters — 71% — are firmly in the president’s camp while 62% of those behind Romney say they will not waver in their commitment to him.

Table: Intensity of Support (IA Registered Voters)

About Four in Ten Very Enthusiastic About Voting in November

Only 38% of registered voters in Iowa are very enthusiastic about voting in November.  37% are somewhat enthusiastic while 17% are not too enthusiastic.  Eight percent are not enthusiastic at all.

Key points:

• 46% of Romney’s supporters are very enthusiastic about going to the polls in November.  This compares with 38% of Obama’s backers who have a similar degree of enthusiasm.

Table: Enthusiasm to Vote (IA Registered Voters)

Iowa Voters Divide About Obama’s Job Performance

Looking at the president’s job rating among Iowa voters, 46% approve of how Obama is doing in office while 45% disapprove.  10% are unsure.

When NBC News/Marist last reported this question in December, 45% of voters in the state gave the president good marks while 43% thought his performance fell short.  12%, at that time, were unsure.

Table: President Obama Approval Rating in Iowa (IA Registered Voters)

Voters Divide Over Candidates’ Favorability

Nearly half of Iowa’s registered voters — 48% — have a favorable view of the president while 45% have an unfavorable view of him.  Seven percent are unsure.

Voters also divide about what they think about Romney.  43% perceive him positively while 43% have a lesser impression of Romney.  15% are unsure.

Table: President Barack Obama Favorability (IA Registered Voters)

Table: Mitt Romney Favorability (IA Registered Voters)

Plurality Says Candidate’s Stance on Same-Sex Marriage Has Little Impact on Vote

34% of Iowa’s electorate report they are more likely to vote for Romney because he opposes same-sex marriage while 22% say they are more likely to cast their ballot for Obama because he supports same-sex marriage.  However, 42% state a candidate’s position on same-sex marriage does not make much difference to their vote.  Three percent are undecided.

Table: Impact of Candidate’s Stance on Same-Sex Marriage (IA Registered Voters)

Economy Tops Social Issues on Many Voters’ Priority List

When it comes to deciding their vote, 71% of voters in Iowa say the economy carries more weight than social issues.  This compares with 22% who report social issues trump the economy.  Seven percent are unsure.

When it comes to the candidate who will do a better job handling the economy, 46% think Romney is the candidate who is better skilled to do so while 41% believe Obama is.  13% are unsure.

Looking at the candidate who comes closer to voters’ views on social issues, there is a divide.  45% say Obama better reflects their position while 43% report Romney shares their stance.  12% are unsure.

On other issues:

• 50% of Iowa voters think Obama will do a better job handling foreign policy.  This compares with 36% who have this opinion of Romney.  14% are unsure.
• Half of voters — 50% — believe Obama is the candidate who best understands voters’ problems.  This compares with 38% for Romney.  13% are unsure.
• A majority of the electorate — 52% — reports Romney will do a better job reducing the national debt while 34% think Obama is better equipped to do so.  14% are unsure.

Table: Which is More Important When Deciding Your Vote, the Economy or Social Issues (IA Registered Voters)

Table: Candidate Who Will Do a Better Job Handling the Economy (IA Registered Voters)

Table: Candidate Who More Closely Reflects Views on Social Issues (IA Registered Voters)

Table: Candidate Who Will Do a Better Job Handling Foreign Policy (IA Registered Voters)

Table: Candidate Who Best Understands Voters’ Problems (IA Registered Voters)

Table: Candidate Who Will Do a Better Job Reducing the National Debt (IA Registered Voters)

Economy Inherited, Says Nearly Six in Ten

57% of registered voters in Iowa think President Obama mostly inherited the nation’s current economic conditions.  34%, though, report the state of the economy is mostly a result of the president’s own policies.  Nine percent are unsure.

What does the future hold for the U.S. economy?  A majority of voters are optimistic.  55% believe the worst is over while 36% think there is more bad news ahead.  Nine percent are unsure.

In the next year, nearly half of voters — 49% — say the economy will be about the same as it is now.  This compares with 31% who think the economy will get better and 16% who believe it will get worse.  Four percent are unsure.

When it comes to the personal finances of Iowa voters, more than six in ten — 61% — say they will be status quo in the coming year.  27% state their family’s money matters will improve while 12% think they will get worse.

Table: Current Economic Conditions Inherited (IA Registered Voters)

Table: U.S. Economy — Will It Get Worse? (IA Registered Voters)

Table: The U.S. Economy in the Next Year (IA Registered Voters)

Table: Family Finances in the Coming Year (IA Registered Voters)

Gotta’ Get Back on Track, Says Majority

54% of Iowa voters believe things in the nation are off on the wrong track.  39% disagree and say they are headed in the right direction.  Six percent are unsure.

Table: Right or Wrong Direction of the Country (IA Registered Voters)

How the Survey was Conducted

Nature of the Sample

5/31: Obama and Romney Neck and Neck in Nevada

In the battle for Nevada’s six electoral votes, President Barack Obama and Mitt Romney are very competitive.  Obama receives 48% to 46% for Mitt Romney, among registered voters in Nevada including those who are undecided yet leaning toward a candidate.  One percent supports another candidate, and 5% are undecided.

“President Obama is nowhere near the twelve percentage point victory he had in Nevada four years ago, but at 48%, he remains within striking distance to carry the state,” says Dr. Lee M. Miringoff, Director of The Marist College Institute for Public Opinion.  “Drilling down into the numbers, there is a gender gap and a generational divide which may tell the story on Election Day.”

Click Here for Complete May 31, 2012 Nevada NBC News/Marist Poll Release

Click Here for Complete May 31, 2012 Nevada NBC News/Marist Poll Tables

Key points:

• Looking at party, 82% of Democrats support Obama while 88% of Republicans are for Romney.
• Among independents, President Obama — 50% — is ahead of Romney — 39%.
• Obama — 47% — and Romney — 47% — are tied among voters who have an excellent or good chance of voting.
• Among voters who express a high level of enthusiasm about voting in November, Obama receives 50% to 46% for Romney.  Looking at those who are moderately enthusiastic, 52% are for Obama while 44% back Romney.  Among those who have a low level of enthusiasm, Romney has 49% to Obama’s 32%.
• Regardless of voters’ degree of interest in the presidential contest, Obama and Romney are in a tight battle.  Obama garners 49% to 46% for Romney among those with a high level of interest.  Among those who express a moderate degree of interest, Romney takes 49% to 47% for Obama.  Obama has 45% to Romney’s 42% among those who have a low level of interest in the contest.
• A majority of voters who strongly support their choice of candidate — 54% — support Obama compared with 46% for Romney.
• There is a gender gap.  Romney has majority support — 52% — among men compared with 41% for Obama.  Obama has majority support — 54% — among women compared with 40% for Romney.
• Obama carries younger voters.  Among those under 30, Obama has 54% while Romney receives 44%.  A majority of voters who are 30 to 44 years of age — 54% — also back the president.  39% of these voters are behind Romney.  The race is tied among voters 45 to 59 years old.  Obama has 47% in this age group, and Romney has 47%.  And, among voters 60 and older, Romney — 53% — leads Obama — 41%.

Table: 2012 Presidential Tossup (NV Registered Voters with Leaners)

Nearly Three in Four Express Strong Commitment to Candidate

How strongly do registered voters in Nevada support their choice of candidate?  74% are firmly in their candidate’s camp while 20% are somewhat behind their pick.  Five percent might vote differently, and only 1% is unsure.

Key points:

• Almost eight in ten Obama supporters — 79% — are strongly committed to their choice of candidate while 69% of Romney’s backers express a similar degree of support.

Table: Intensity of Support (NV Registered Voters)

Half Very Enthusiastic About November Election

When it comes to voter enthusiasm, 50% of Nevada voters are very enthusiastic about voting in November’s presidential election.  This compares with 32% who are somewhat enthusiastic and 10% who are not too enthusiastic.  Seven percent are not enthusiastic at all.

Key points:

• 53% of voters who support the president are very enthusiastic about going to the polls in the fall while a similar 51% of Romney backers say the same.

Table: Enthusiasm to Vote (NV Registered Voters)

Voters Divide about Obama’s Job Performance

While 46% of registered voters statewide approve of the job President Obama is doing in office, 47% disapprove.  Seven percent are unsure.

Table: President Obama Approval Rating in Nevada (NV Registered Voters)

Candidates Fare Favorably?  Both Receive Mixed Reviews

Looking at the favorability of the candidates, 48% of voters have a positive view of the president while 46% have a less than stellar one.  Six percent are unsure.

Voters also divide about Romney.  44% have a favorable impression of him compared with 41% who do not.  A notable 15% are unsure.

Table: President Barack Obama Favorability (NV Registered Voters)

Table: Mitt Romney Favorability (NV Registered Voters)

Nearly Half Say Position on Same-Sex Marriage Has Little Impact on Vote

While 27% of voters say they are more likely to cast their ballot for Romney because he opposes same-sex marriage and 25% report they are more likely to support President Obama because he supports same-sex marriage, 47% say the issue matters little to their vote.  Only 1% is undecided.

Table: Impact of Candidate’s Stance on Same-Sex Marriage (NV Registered Voters)

The Economy or Social Issues?  Nearly Eight in Ten Say the Economy

When it comes to the factor more important to their vote, 78% of the Nevada electorate believes the economy is the more pressing issue.  17%, though, report a candidate’s position on social issues has a larger influence on their vote.  Five percent are unsure.

Voters divide about the candidate who will do a better job handling the economy.  44% think the president is more adept at doing so while 44% say Romney is.  11% are unsure.

Looking at social issues, half — 50% — believe Mr. Obama is the candidate who more closely reflects their views.  This compares with 40% who report Mr. Romney shares their stance on these issues.  10% are unsure.

On other issues:

• Half of voters — 50% — believe the president will do a better job at handling foreign policy while 40% think Romney is better suited to do so.  11% are unsure.
• 49% perceive Obama to be the candidate who best understands voters’ problems.  This compares with 40% who have this impression of Romney.  11% are unsure.
• Half — 50% — think Romney will do a better job reducing the national debt.  39% have this view of Obama.  11% are unsure.

Table: Which is More Important When Deciding Your Vote, the Economy or Social Issues (NV Registered Voters)

Table: Candidate Who Will Do a Better Job Handling the Economy (NV Registered Voters)

Table: Candidate Who More Closely Reflects Views on Social Issues (NV Registered Voters)

Table: Candidate Who Will Do a Better Job Handling Foreign Policy (NV Registered Voters)

Table: Candidate Who Best Understands Voters’ Problems (NV Registered Voters)

Table: Candidate Who Will Do a Better Job Reducing the National Debt (NV Registered Voters)

Majority Views Economic Conditions as Inherited

56% of registered voters in Nevada believe President Obama mostly inherited the country’s economic conditions.  36%, though, say they are a result of his policies, and 8% are unsure.

Regarding the U.S. economy, a majority — 52% — believes the worst of the nation’s economic conditions are over.  40% think there is more bad economic news ahead.  Eight percent are unsure.

When it comes to the state of the economy over the next year, about one in three — 33% — thinks it will get better while 18% believe it will get worse.  A plurality — 44% — says it will remain about the same, and 5% are unsure.

Looking at family finances, a majority of voters — 54% — report their personal finances will remain steady in the coming year.  35% think their financial picture will get better, and 11% say it will get worse.

Table: Current Economic Conditions Inherited (NV Registered Voters)

Table: U.S. Economy — Will It Get Worse? (NV Registered Voters)

Table: The U.S. Economy in the Next Year (NV Registered Voters)

Table: Family Finances in the Coming Year (NV Registered Voters)

Get the Nation Back on Track, Says Majority

55% of the state’s voters say things in the country are off on the wrong track.  This compares with 39% who believe the nation is headed in the right direction.  Six percent are unsure.

Table: Right or Wrong Direction of the Country (NV Registered Voters)

Heller-Berkley Senate Race a Virtual Dead Heat

In the race for U.S. Senate in Nevada, Republican incumbent Dean Heller — 46% — and Democrat Shelley Berkley — 44% — are neck and neck among registered voters statewide including those who are undecided yet leaning toward a candidate.  10% are undecided.

Table: 2012 Hypothetical U.S. Senate Tossup in Nevada: Berkley/Heller (NV Registered Voters with Leaners)

How the Survey was Conducted

Nature of the Sample

5/31: Obama and Romney Vie for Lead in Colorado

President Barack Obama and Mitt Romney are neck and neck in Colorado, a state Obama won by nine points in 2008.  Among registered voters statewide including those who are undecided yet leaning toward a candidate, Obama receives 46% to 45% for Romney.  One percent plans to vote for someone else, and 8% are undecided.

“This is a state George W. Bush carried in 2000 and 2004 and has trended Republican in party registration since 2008,” says Dr. Lee M. Miringoff, Director of The Marist College Institute for Public Opinion.  “President Obama broke through four years ago and is countering the partisan difference this time by being plus ten among independents.”

Click Here for Complete May 31, 2012 Colorado NBC News/Marist Poll Release

Click Here for Complete May 31, 2012 Colorado NBC News/Marist Poll Tables

Key points:

• Looking at party, most Democrats — 88% — back the president while most Republicans — 86% — are behind Romney.
• Obama — 48% — leads Romney — 38% — among independent voters.
• Romney — 46% — and Obama — 45% — are in a statistical dead heat among voters who have an excellent or good chance of voting in November.
• Romney — 52% — edges Obama — 43% — among voters who express a high level of enthusiasm about the presidential election.  However, Obama — 53% — leads Romney — 39% — among those who are moderately enthusiastic.  41% of voters who have a low degree of enthusiasm back Obama compared with 39% for Romney.
• Among those in Colorado who have a high level of interest in the presidential contest, 47% are behind Obama while the same proportion — 47% — supports Romney.  Among those with a moderate degree of interest, Romney garners 42% to Obama’s 39%.  Among voters who have a low interest in the election, 47% are for Obama while 40% back Romney.
• A majority of Colorado voters who strongly support their choice of candidate — 53% –are behind Obama while 47% are for Romney.
• A gender gap exists.  49% of men support Romney compared with 41% for Obama.  More than half of women — 51% — throw their support behind Obama while 40% back Romney.
• Among Colorado voters under the age of 30, nearly six in ten voters — 59% — support Obama while 28% are for Romney.  Among voters 30 to 44 years old, 48% are behind Obama compared with 43% who back Romney.  Among those 45 to 59, Romney receives the support of 49% while Obama garners 42%.  Looking at those 60 and older, 49% rally for Romney while 45% back Obama.

Table: 2012 Presidential Tossup (CO Registered Voters with Leaners)

More Than Seven in Ten Firmly in Candidate’s Camp

Looking at intensity of support, 71% of registered voters in Colorado are firmly behind their choice of candidate while 23% are somewhat committed to their pick.  Six percent might cast their ballot differently, and less than 1% is unsure.

Key points:

• 74% of Obama’s supporters firmly back him.  This compares with 67% of Romney’s supporters who have a similar level of commitment.

Table: Intensity of Support (CO Registered Voters)

44% Very Enthusiastic About Voting in November

A plurality of the Colorado electorate — 44% — is very enthusiastic about voting in November.  37% are somewhat enthusiastic while 14% are not too enthusiastic.  Five percent are not enthusiastic at all.

Key points:

• A majority of Romney’s supporters — 52% — are very enthusiastic about casting their ballot in the fall while 41% of Obama’s supporters have a similar level of enthusiasm.

Table: Enthusiasm to Vote (CO Registered Voters)

Nearly Half in Colorado Disapproves of Obama’s Job Performance

When it comes to how President Obama is doing in office, 45% give him a thumbs-up.  However, 49% disapprove, and 6% are unsure.

Table: President Obama Approval Rating in Colorado (CO Registered Voters)

The Great Favorability Divide

47% of the Colorado electorate has a favorable impression of the president while the same proportion — 47% — perceives him unfavorably.  Six percent are unsure.

This is not unlike the picture for Romney.  43% view him favorably while the same proportion — 43% — has an unfavorable opinion of him.  14% are unsure.

Table: President Barack Obama Favorability (CO Registered Voters)

Table: Mitt Romney Favorability (CO Registered Voters)

Same-Sex Marriage Issue Matters Little to 45%

While 28% of voters are more likely to support Obama because he supports same-sex marriage including 46% of Democrats, 27% are more likely to back Romney because he opposes same-sex marriage including 54% of Republicans.  A plurality of the Colorado electorate — 45% — reports a candidate’s stance on the issue matters little to their vote.  Only 1% is undecided.

Table: Impact of Candidate’s Stance on Same-Sex Marriage (CO Registered Voters)

The Economy Key Factor for Almost Three in Four Voters

74% of registered voters believe the economy is more important in deciding their vote than are social issues.  20% report the opposite is true, and 6% are unsure.

Mitt Romney is perceived by 45% of the electorate to be the candidate who will do a better job handling the economy.  42%, though, say President Obama is better skilled to take on the matter.  13% are unsure.

When it comes to social issues, 48% say Obama comes closer to their views while 41% believe Romney does.  11% are unsure.

On other issues:

• 47% of the electorate reports Obama will do a better job handling foreign policy.  39% have this view of Romney.  14% are unsure.
• Almost half — 49% — think Obama is the candidate who best understands voters’ problems while 40% believe Romney is the most relatable.  12% are unsure.
• 50% of voters say Romney will do a better job reducing the national debt.  This compares with 37% who have this opinion of Obama.  14% are unsure.

Table: Which is More Important When Deciding Your Vote, the Economy or Social Issues (CO Registered Voters)

Table: Candidate Who Will Do a Better Job Handling the Economy (CO Registered Voters)

Table: Candidate Who More Closely Reflects Views on Social Issues (CO Registered Voters)

Table: Candidate Who Will Do a Better Job Handling Foreign Policy (CO Registered Voters)

Table: Candidate Who Best Understands Voters’ Problems (CO Registered Voters)

Table: Candidate Who Will Do a Better Job Reducing the National Debt (CO Registered Voters)

Obama’s Inheritance: The Economy

A majority of voters in Colorado — 54% — think the president mostly inherited the nation’s economic conditions while 37% believe they are a result of his own policies.  Nine percent are unsure.

A majority of voters are optimistic about the future of the U.S. economy.  54% report the worst of the country’s economic woes are behind us.  39% say the worst is yet to come, and 7% are unsure.

What will the U.S. economy look like in the coming year?  Nearly half of voters in Colorado — 48% — think the economy will stay about the same.  About one in three — 33% — believes the economy will get better while 14% report it will get worse.  Four percent are unsure.

Regarding their own financial picture, 61% of voters think their family finances will remain the same in the coming year.  29% believe their money matters will get better while 10% say they will get worse.

Table: Current Economic Conditions Inherited (CO Registered Voters)

Table: U.S. Economy — Will It Get Worse? (CO Registered Voters)

Table: The U.S. Economy in the Next Year (CO Registered Voters)

Table: Family Finances in the Coming Year (CO Registered Voters)

Country Needs Course Correction, Says Majority

56% of registered voters in Colorado believe things in the nation are off on the wrong track.  38%, however, think they are headed in the right direction.  Six percent are unsure.

Table: Right or Wrong Direction of the Country (CO Registered Voters)

How the Survey was Conducted

Nature of the Sample

5/24: Obama and Romney Competitive in Florida

President Barack Obama and Republican Mitt Romney are neck and neck in the presidential contest in Florida.  According to this NBC News/Marist Poll of the state, Obama receives 48% to 44% for Romney among registered voters in Florida including those who are undecided yet leaning toward a candidate.  One percent supports another candidate, and 7% are undecided.

“Mitt Romney is within striking distance of President Obama in Florida,” says Dr. Lee M. Miringoff, Director of The Marist College Institute for Public Opinion.  “But neither Marco Rubio nor Jeb Bush pushes Romney ahead in the race for Florida’s 29 electoral votes.”

Click Here for Complete May 24, 2012 Florida NBC News/Marist Poll Release

Click Here for Complete May 24, 2012 Florida NBC News/Marist Poll Tables

Key points:

• By party, 79% of Democrats support Obama while 84% of Republicans rally for Romney.
• Obama — 52% — leads Romney — 37% — among independent voters.
• The president — 48% — and Romney — 46% — are competitive among voters with an excellent or good chance of voting in November.
• Among those with a high level of enthusiasm about the presidential election, Obama — 50% — and Romney — 47% — are neck and neck.  Looking at those who are moderately enthusiastic, President Obama has majority support — 52% — compared with 40% for Romney.  However, Romney — 45% — is ahead among those who express a low degree of enthusiasm.  Obama receives 33%.
• Among those who have a high level of interest in the presidential election, Obama — 49% — and Romney — 46% — vie for the lead.  However, Obama — 45% — does better against Romney — 37% — among those who have a moderate degree of interest.  Among those with a low level of interest in the contest, Obama receives 42% to 41% for Romney.
• A majority of voters who strongly support their choice of candidate — 55% — are for Obama while 45% are for Romney.
• There is a gender gap. Romney — 49% — edges President Obama — 45% — among men.  Obama — 50% — leads Romney — 40% — among women.
• Looking at age, the president — 65% — outpaces Romney — 28% — among voters under 30.  However, things are decidedly different among older voters.  President Obama receives 46% to 42% for Romney among voters 30 to 44.  Among those 45 to 59, Obama has 47% to Romney’s 44%.  Romney — 50% — leads Obama — 44% — among voters 60 and older.

Table: 2012 Presidential Tossup (FL Registered Voters with Leaners)

Nearly Eight in Ten Strongly Support Choice of Candidate

78% of registered voters in Florida are firmly committed to their choice of candidate while 16% are somewhat behind their pick.  Six percent believe they might cast their ballot differently on Election Day, and only 1% is unsure.

Key points:

• 81% of voters for Obama are strongly committed to him.  This compares with 74% of Romney’s backers who have a similar level of commitment to their candidate.

Table: Intensity of Support (FL Registered Voters)

Slim Majority Very Enthusiastic about Voting in November

51% of registered voters in Florida report they are very enthusiastic about voting this fall.  30% are somewhat enthusiastic while 15% are not too enthusiastic.  Four percent are not enthusiastic at all.

Key points:

• A majority of registered voters who support President Obama — 54% — are very enthusiastic about voting.  The same proportion of Romney backers — 54% — shares this level of enthusiasm.

Table: Enthusiasm to Vote (FL Registered Voters)

Any Bounce with Rubio or Bush as Running Mate?

If Marco Rubio were Romney’s running mate, would Rubio help Romney’s electoral chances?  In this scenario, 48% of registered voters in Florida support President Obama and Vice President Joe Biden while 44% are for Romney and Rubio.  Two percent back another candidate, and 7% are undecided.

What if Romney teamed up with Jeb Bush?  Here, 47% back the Democrats while 45% are behind Romney and Bush.  Two percent report they will vote for someone else, and 7% are undecided.

Among registered voters in Florida not including those who are undecided yet leaning toward a candidate, 45% are for Obama while 40% are behind Romney.  One percent supports another candidate, and 14% are undecided.

Table: 2012 Presidential Tossup with VPs: Obama/Biden against Romney/Rubio (FL Registered Voters)

Table: 2012 Presidential Tossup with VPs: Obama/Biden against Romney/Bush (FL Registered Voters)

Table: 2012 Presidential Tossup (FL Registered Voters)

Obama Approval Rating at 48% in Florida

When it comes to President Obama’s job performance, registered voters in Florida divide.  48% approve of how he is doing while 45% disapprove.  Six percent are unsure.

When the NBC News/Marist Poll last reported this question in January, Florida voters divided.  46% approved of the president’s job performance while 46% disapproved.  Eight percent, at the time, were unsure.

Table: President Obama Approval Rating in Florida (FL Registered Voters)

Majority Views Obama Favorably…Electorate Divides about Romney

52% of registered voters in Florida have a positive impression of President Obama while 43% have a less than stellar impression of the president.  Five percent are unsure.

Romney receives mixed reviews from Florida’s electorate.  45% perceive him favorably while 43% do not.  12% are unsure.

Table: President Barack Obama Favorability (FL Registered Voters)

Table: Mitt Romney Favorability (FL Registered Voters)

Four in Ten Say Same-Sex Marriage Issue Has Little Impact on Vote

More than three in ten registered voters — 32% — report they are more likely to vote for Romney because he opposes same-sex marriage while 22% say they are more likely to cast their ballot for the president because he supports same-sex marriage.  However, a plurality — 44% — believes a candidate’s stance does not make much difference to their vote.  Two percent are undecided.

Table: Impact of Candidate’s Stance on Same-Sex Marriage (FL Registered Voters)

Economy Higher on Florida Voters’ Priority List than Social Issues

More than three in four registered voters in Florida — 77% — report the economy is more important than social issues when deciding their vote for president.  17%, however, say social issues are more important.  Six percent are unsure.

When it comes to the candidate who will do a better job handling the economy, voters divide.  46% believe President Obama will better handle the task compared with 44% who have this perception of Governor Romney.  Nine percent are unsure.

On social issues, 48% report the president comes closer to their views.  This compares with 43% who think Romney better reflects their positions on these issues.  Nine percent are unsure.

On other issues:

• When it comes to foreign policy, 49% believe the president is better equipped to handle this area while 40% report Romney is.  11% are unsure.
• A majority of registered voters — 51% — say President Obama is the candidate who best understands voters’ problems.  40%, however, have this impression of Governor Romney.  Nine percent are unsure.
• Romney — 49% — is thought to be the candidate who will do a better job reducing the national debt while 41% say Obama can better tackle the issue.  11% are unsure.

Table: Which is More Important When Deciding Your Vote, the Economy or Social Issues (FL Registered Voters)

Table: Candidate Who Will Do a Better Job Handling the Economy (FL Registered Voters)

Table: Candidate Who More Closely Reflects Views on Social Issues (FL Registered Voters)

Table: Candidate Who Will Do a Better Job Handling Foreign Policy (FL Registered Voters)

Table: Candidate Who Best Understands Voters’ Problems (FL Registered Voters)

Table: Candidate Who Will Do a Better Job Reducing the National Debt (FL Registered Voters)

Majority Views Economic Conditions as Inherited…Growing Economic Optimism

56% of registered voters in Florida believe the president mostly inherited the nation’s current economic conditions.  37%, though, believe they are a result of his policies.  Six percent are unsure.

Florida voters express greater optimism about the state of the U.S. economy.  51% think the worst of the nation’s economic conditions are behind us while 41% say the worst is yet to come.  Eight percent are unsure.

What will the U.S. economy look like in the next 12 months?  40% of registered voters in Florida say it will be better.  16% think it will be worse, and 40% believe it will be about the same.  Four percent are unsure.

Looking at personal family finances, nearly six in ten registered voters in Florida — 57% — report their financial picture will be steady.  32% believe their money matters will improve.  11% think their finances will get worse.

Table: Current Economic Conditions Inherited (FL Registered Voters)

Table: U.S. Economy — Will It Get Worse? (FL Registered Voters)

Table: The U.S. Economy in the Next Year (FL Registered Voters)

Table: Family Finances in the Coming Year (FL Registered Voters)

U.S. Needs to Get Back on Track, Say Nearly Six in Ten

57% of registered voters in Florida say things in the nation are off on the wrong track.  However, 39% believe they are headed in the right direction.  Four percent are unsure.

Table: Right or Wrong Direction of the Country (FL Registered Voters)

Nelson and Mack in Tight Battle in Florida

In the race for U.S. Senate in Florida, Democrat Bill Nelson has a slight lead over Republican Connie Mack, 46% to 42%, among registered voters.  12% are undecided.

Table: 2012 U.S. Senate Tossup in Florida: Nelson/Mack (FL Registered Voters)

How the Survey was Conducted

Nature of the Sample

5/24: Obama and Romney Locked in Tight Contest in Virginia

In the battle for the White House in Virginia, President Barack Obama edges Republican Mitt Romney by four percentage points among registered voters statewide including those who are undecided yet leaning toward a candidate.  Obama receives 48% of the vote to 44% for Romney.  One percent backs another candidate, and 7% are undecided.

“Already targeted by both the Obama and Romney campaigns, Virginia could become the ultimate battleground state,” says Dr. Lee M. Miringoff, Director of The Marist College Institute for Public Opinion.  “Obama carried the state by six percentage points in 2008, it is likely to go down to the wire this time.”

Click Here for Complete May 24, 2012 Virginia NBC News/Marist Poll Release

Click Here for Complete May 24, 2012 Virginia NBC News/Marist Poll Tables

Key points:

• There is a partisan divide.  90% of Democrats support President Obama while 89% of Republicans back Romney.
• Among independent voters, Obama — 47% — has a slight edge over Romney — 41%.
• Looking at voters with an excellent or good chance of voting in the fall election, Obama — 48% — and Romney — 45% — are competitive.
• When it comes to enthusiasm, a majority of those with a high level of enthusiasm about the presidential election — 52% — are for Obama compared with 45% for Romney.  Among those who are moderately enthusiastic,  47% back Obama while 45% support Romney.  Both Obama and Romney receive 41% among those who express a low level of enthusiasm.
• The president — 47% — and Romney — 47% — are in a dead heat among those who express a high level of interest in the presidential election.  Obama — 48% — opens up a lead against Romney — 43% — among those who have a moderate level of interest in the contest.  A majority of those who express a low interest — 53% — back Mr. Obama while 31% are behind Mr. Romney.
• Almost six in ten of those who strongly support their choice of candidate – 58% — back President Obama while 42% are for Romney.
• There is a gender gap.  Romney — 47% — and Obama — 45% — are neck and neck among men.  Obama — 51% — leads Romney — 41% — among women.
• Looking at age, Obama — 60% — leads Romney — 33% — among registered voters including leaners who are under 30 years of age.  The president — 50% — also outpaces Romney — 42% — among voters who are 30 to 44 years old.  However, the race tightens among those 45 to 59.  Here, Obama — 46% — and Romney — 43% — are competitive.  Romney has 52% among those 60 and older compared with Obama who receives 43%.

Table: 2012 Presidential Tossup (VA Registered Voters with Leaners)

More than Seven in Ten Firmly Behind Candidate

71% of registered voters in Virginia report they strongly support their choice of candidate while 22% are somewhat committed to their pick.  Six percent might vote differently, and 1% is unsure.

Key points:

• Nearly eight in ten registered voters who back President Obama — 79% — say they strongly support him.  This compares with 62% of Romney’s backers who have a similar intensity of support.

Table: Intensity of Support (VA Registered Voters)

45% Very Enthusiastic About November’s Election

A plurality of registered voters in Virginia — 45% — say they are very enthusiastic about voting in this fall’s presidential election.  37% are somewhat enthusiastic while 13% are not too enthusiastic.  Six percent are not enthusiastic at all.

Key points:

• Nearly half of registered voters who back President Obama — 49% — have a high degree of enthusiasm about voting in November.  This compares with 46% of Romney’s supporters who share this level of enthusiasm.

Table: Enthusiasm to Vote (VA Registered Voters)

Veepstakes…McDonnell Does Little to Buoy Romney’s Chances

What if Mitt Romney were to select Virginia Governor Bob McDonnell as his running mate?  There is little change.  President Obama and Vice President Joe Biden receive 46% of registered voters’ support while Romney and McDonnell garner 44%.  One percent says they will vote for someone else, and 9% are undecided.

Among registered voters in Virginia not including those who are leaning toward a candidate, Obama leads Romney, 46% to 42%.  One percent is behind another candidate, and 11% are undecided.

Table: 2012 Presidential Tossup with VPs: Obama/Biden against Romney/McDonnell (VA Registered Voters)

Table: 2012 Presidential Tossup (VA Registered Voters)

Obama Approval Rating at 49% in Virginia

Almost half of registered voters in Virginia — 49% — approve of the job President Obama is doing in office.  45%, however, disapprove, and 6% are unsure.

There has been a slight increase in the proportion of voters who disapprove of the president’s job performance.  When NBC News/Marist last reported this question among Virginia registered voters in March, 51% gave the president high marks while 39% disapproved of how he was performing in office.  10%, at the time, were unsure.

Table: President Obama Approval Rating in Virginia (VA Registered Voters)

A Tale of Two Favorability Ratings

While a majority of registered voters in Virginia have a positive impression of President Obama, fewer have a favorable view of Governor Romney.  52% of voters think well of the president while 44% have a less than favorable opinion of him.  Four percent are unsure.

Looking at Romney, 44% have an unfavorable impression of him while 41% have a favorable one.  15% are unsure.

Table: President Barack Obama Favorability (VA Registered Voters)

Table: Mitt Romney Favorability (VA Registered Voters)

Position on Same-Sex Marriage Has Little Impact on Vote, Says Plurality

Nearly one in three registered voters in Virginia — 32% — say they are more likely to vote for Mitt Romney because he opposes same-sex marriage while one in four — 25% — reports they are more likely to support President Obama because he supports same-sex marriage.  However, a notable 41% think a candidate’s stance on the issue does not make much difference to their vote.  Only 2% are undecided.

Table: Impact of Candidate’s Stance on Same-Sex Marriage (VA Registered Voters)

Economy Trumps Social Issues

When it comes to the factor that is more important in deciding their vote, 72% of registered voters in Virginia choose the economy.  22%, however, believe social issues are more important, and 6% are undecided.

Virginia voters divide about whether President Obama — 46% — or Governor Romney — 45% — is better equipped to handle the economy.  Nine percent are unsure.

Nearly half of registered voters in the state — 48% — believe Mr. Obama comes closer to their views on social issues.  43%, though, think Mr. Romney better reflects their positions on these issues while 9% are unsure.

On other issues:

• President Obama is viewed by a majority of registered voters — 52% — as the candidate who will do a better job handling foreign policy.  37% have this opinion of Mr. Romney, and 10% are unsure.
• Half of registered voters in Virginia — 50% — think Romney will do a better job reducing the national debt while 40% have this view of President Obama.  10% are unsure.
• 53% of registered voters perceive President Obama to be the candidate who best understands voters’ problems.  36%, however, say Romney is the more relatable candidate, and 11% are unsure.

Table: Which is More Important When Deciding Your Vote, the Economy or Social Issues (VA Registered Voters)

Table: Candidate Who Will Do a Better Job Handling the Economy (VA Registered Voters)

Table: Candidate Who More Closely Reflects Views on Social Issues (VA Registered Voters)

Table: Candidate Who Will Do a Better Job Handling Foreign Policy (VA Registered Voters)

Table: Candidate Who Will Do a Better Job Reducing the National Debt (VA Registered Voters)

Table: Candidate Who Best Understands Voters’ Problems (VA Registered Voters)

Nearly Six in Ten Say Prez Inherited Economic Conditions, Majority Says Worst is Over

57% of registered voters in Virginia believe President Obama mostly inherited the nation’s current economic conditions while 36% say they are mostly a result of his own policies.  Seven percent are unsure.

When thinking about the U.S. economy, overall, 55% think the worst of the country’s economic woes are over while 37% say the worst is yet to come.  Eight percent are unsure.  There has been little change on this question since March when 53% said the worst was behind us, 39% thought there was more bad economic news on the horizon, and 8% were unsure.

A plurality of voters expect the nation’s economy to remain steady in the next 12 months.  While 34% say the economy will improve and 16% report it will get worse,  45% think it will stay about the same.  Five percent are unsure.  In March, 38% believed the economy would get better, 19% thought it would deteriorate, and 40% said it would remain about the same.  Three percent, at the time, were unsure.

Looking at their family finances, 34% of registered voters in Virginia say they expect their personal financial situation to get better in the next year.  10%, however, believe it will get worse while a majority — 55% — thinks it will be status quo.

Table: Current Economic Conditions Inherited (VA Registered Voters)

Table: U.S. Economy — Will It Get Worse? (VA Registered Voters)

Table: The U.S. Economy in the Next Year (VA Registered Voters)

Table: Family Finances in the Coming Year (VA Registered Voters)

Almost Six in Ten Think Nation Needs a Course Correction

58% of registered voters in Virginia think things in the nation are off on the wrong track.  38% believe they are headed in the right direction, and 4% are unsure.

There has been an increase in the proportion of Virginia voters who say things are off course.  When NBC News/Marist last reported this question in March, 49% reported the nation needed to get back on track while 44% thought things were copasetic.  Seven percent, then, were unsure.

Table: Right or Wrong Direction of the Country (VA Registered Voters)

Kaine-Allen Senate Race Competitive

In the race for U.S. Senate in Virginia, Democrat Tim Kaine leads Republican George Allen, 49% to 43%, among registered voters statewide.  Nine percent are undecided.

In March, 48% backed Kaine, 39% were for Allen, and 14% were undecided.

Table: 2012 U.S. Senate Tossup in Virginia: Kaine/Allen (VA Registered Voters)

How the Survey was Conducted

Nature of the Sample

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