4/4: Half of Voters Trust Obama More than Republicans to Deal with Budget…More Blame GOP for Gridlock

When it comes to the federal budget, 50% of registered voters nationally trust President Barack Obama to make the right decisions.  This compares with 41% who have more faith in the Republicans in Congress to make the correct choices.  Eight percent trust neither the president nor the Congressional GOP while only 1% of voters have confidence in both.  Two percent are unsure. Click Here for Complete April 4, 2013 USA McClatchy-Marist Poll Release and Tables “There are no winners when it comes to the budget battles in Washington,” says Dr. Lee M. Miringoff, Director of The Marist College Institute... 

4/3: McClatchy-Marist Poll: The Budget Deficit

When it comes to the federal budget deficit, do voters nationally have more trust in President Barack Obama to handle the issue, or do they have more confidence in the Republicans in Congress?  At whom do they point a finger for the gridlock surrounding the federal budget?  Find out in the latest national McClatchy-Marist Poll. whitehouse.gov To read the full McClatchy article, click here.  Read More →

4/3: Morning Line for 2016

Speculation about who the presidential candidates will be in 2016 is a year round sport.  On the Democratic side, much attention has been given to the possible candidacies of former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton and Vice President Joe Biden.  How do the two run against potential Republican candidates?  With the exception of New Jersey Governor Chris Christie, Clinton receives majority support nationally and outdistances her possible rivals by double digits.  Biden also does well except against Christie where both candidates are locked in a close contest. Click Here for Complete April 3,... 

4/3: The Agenda for America: Job Creation Trumps Deficit Reduction

Almost two-thirds of Americans — 64% — want Congress and President Barack Obama to agree that creating jobs should be the top priority for the nation.  33%, however, think reducing the federal deficit should be at the top of their agenda, and 3% are unsure.  Similar proportions of registered voters share these views. Click Here for Complete April 3, 2013 USA Morning Joe/Marist Poll Release and Tables “Closing the budget deficit may be the driving force in Washington, but the jobs picture is the public’s main concern,” says Dr. Lee M. Miringoff, Director of The Marist College... 

4/2: McClatchy-Marist Poll: Campaign 2016

Looking ahead to the 2016 presidential contest, what are the chances of former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton and Vice President Joe Biden? The latest national McClatchy-Marist Poll takes a look at their odds against potential Republican candidates.  To read the full McClatchy article, click here.  Read More →

3/19: Voters’ Expectations Tempered for Obama’s Middle East Trip

What do U.S. registered voters think will come of President Barack Obama’s trip to the Middle East? whitehouse.gov About two-thirds of voters — 66% — don’t think it will make much difference in easing the tensions in the region.  19% believe the president’s trip will increase tensions in the area while 15% say the visit will decrease them. Click Here for Complete March 19, 2013 USA McClatchy-Marist Poll Release and Tables “Voters are not optimistic that the president’s trip will be a productive one,” says Dr. Lee M. Miringoff, Director of The Marist College Institute for... 

3/15: McClatchy-Marist Poll

President Barack Obama will arrive in the Middle East next week.  What are voters’ expectations for the trip?  Do they think the president’s visit will restart peace talks in the region?  Find out in the latest national McClatchy-Marist Poll. To read the full McClatchy article, click here.      Read More →

3/13: Americans Divide about Guns, But…

The renewed debate about gun violence in the United States has fostered little consensus among Americans.  Where do Americans stand on the issue?  They divide.  49% of adults nationally think it is more important to control gun violence while 48% believe the priority should be to protect gun rights.  Three percent are unsure.  Not surprisingly, 70% of gun owners say it is more important to protect gun rights.  Although, 28% of these residents report controlling gun violence is the priority.  Two percent are unsure. Click Here for Complete March 13, 2013 USA McClatchy-Marist Poll Release... 

3/13: Most Americans Perceive Immigration Policy as a Priority…Majority Says Border Control Key

Where should U.S. immigration policy fall on Washington lawmakers’ agenda?  83% of Americans believe the issue should be a priority.  This includes 37% who want it to be an immediate priority, and 46% who believe it should be addressed in the next couple of years.  17%, however, don’t think immigration policy should be a priority.  Similar proportions of registered voters share these views. Click Here for Complete March 13, 2013 USA McClatchy-Marist Poll Release and Tables When it comes to the specific changes to immigration policy, a majority of adults — 55% — think they should... 

3/12: McClatchy-Marist Poll

Gun control has re-entered the national discourse.  But, to what extent, if any, do Americans support stricter gun regulations?  Plus, how much of a priority should immigration reform be for Washington lawmakers?  Find out in the latest national McClatchy-Marist Poll. To read the full McClatchy article, click here.  Read More →

3/12: Obama Approval Rating Drops…Plurality Blames GOP for Sequester

President Barack Obama’s approval rating has fallen to its lowest point in sixteen months.  Currently, more registered voters nationally disapprove of the president’s job performance –   48% — than approve of how he is doing in office — 45%.  Seven percent are unsure.  This is the first time Mr. Obama’s approval rating has been upside down since November 2011 when 50% believed he fell short, and 43% gave the president high marks.  Seven percent, at that time, were unsure. whitehouse.gov Click Here for Complete March 12, 2013 USA McClatchy-Marist Poll Release and Tables When... 

3/11: McClatchy-Marist Poll: Approval Ratings Roundup

How do voters nationally think President Barack Obama is doing in office?  What about the Republicans and Democrats in Congress?  Find out in the latest national McClatchy-Marist Poll. To read the full McClatchy article, click here.  Read More →

3/11: McClatchy-Marist Poll

Do Americans expect the federal government’s automatic spending cuts, known as the sequester, to personally impact them?  Find out in the latest national McClatchy-Marist Poll. To read the full McClatchy article, click here.    Read More →

12/12: Four In Ten with High Expectations for Obama’s Second Term…Approval Rating at 50%

Looking ahead to President Barack Obama’s second term in office, 40% of registered voters nationally expect his second go around to be better than his first term.  30% think it will be about the same while 28% believe it will be worse.  Two percent are unsure. whitehouse.gov Click Here for Complete December 12, 2012 USA McClatchy-Marist Poll Release and Tables “Expectations for President Obama’s second term divide along party lines; Democrats are optimistic and Republicans are not,” says Dr. Lee M. Miringoff, Director of The Marist College Institute for Public Opinion.  “But, a majority... 

12/11: McClatchy-Marist Poll

What are voters’ expectations for President Barack Obama’s second term?  Do they think he is doing a good job, and do they believe there will be more or less compromise in Washington? Find out in the latest national McClatchy-Marist Poll.  To read the entire McClatchy article, click here.  Read More →

12/11: Slim Majority Thinks Debt Deal will be Reached

52% of registered voters nationally think a deal to reduce the federal budget deficit will be reached by the end of the month.  42%, however, do not think a deal will be brokered, and the nation will go over the fiscal cliff.  Six percent are unsure. Click Here for Complete December 11, 2012 USA McClatchy-Marist Poll Release and Tables There is a partisan divide.  68% of Democrats believe a deal will occur.  More than one in four — 26% — do not think a compromise will be found, and 6% are unsure.  Among Republicans, a majority — 54% — does not think a plan will be hashed... 

12/10: McClatchy-Marist Poll

Do registered voters nationally think a debt deal will be reached by the end of the year?  Are they concerned that the nation will go over the fiscal cliff?  Does it matter if a deal is reached by the deadline? Find out in the latest national McClatchy-Marist Poll.  Click here to read the complete McClatchy article.  Read More →

4/12: Michelle Obama’s Favorability Rock Solid

Almost two-thirds of registered voters nationwide have a positive impression of First Lady Michelle Obama.  65% have a favorable view of Mrs. Obama while less than one in four members of the electorate — 23% — has an unfavorable impression of her.  12% are unsure. Michelle Obama (courtesy of whitehouse.gov) Click Here for Complete April 12, 2012 USA Marist Poll Release and Tables Mrs. Obama’s favorability rating is consistent.  When Marist last reported this question in October, 63% of registered voters in the United States thought well of the First Lady.  21%, however, had a... 

3/26: Majority Wants Highest Court to Change At Least Part of Health Care Law

The 2010 health care law is before the United States Supreme Court today.  What do Americans nationwide want the outcome to be?  35% think the law should stand in its current form while 34% report the law should be completely repealed.  A notable proportion — 21% — wants the part which mandates Americans to buy health insurance to be declared unconstitutional, and 10% are unsure.  Similar proportions of registered voters share these views. Photo Credit: USDA/Ken Hammond Click Here for Complete March 26, 2012 USA McClatchy-Marist Poll Release and Tables Not surprisingly, there is... 

3/23: McClatchy-Marist Poll

The United States Supreme Court is poised to hear arguments about the constitutionality of the 2010 health care law.  What do registered voters nationally want them to decide?  Find out in the latest national McClatchy-Marist Poll. By Noclip at en.wikipedia (Transferred from en.wikipedia) (Public domain), via Wikimedia Commons To read the full McClatchy article, click here.    Read More →

11/18: Voters Pessimistic About Super Committee Deal

With the deadline nearing for Congressional Republicans and Democrats on the Super Committee to reach an agreement on how to reduce the federal budget deficit, most voters nationally are not confident that a deal will be reached. Click Here for Complete Friday, November 18, 2011 USA McClatchy-Marist Poll Release and Tables According to this national McClatchy-Marist Poll, 85% of registered voters are not very confident or not confident at all that an agreement will be reached.  13% express some degree of confidence, and 2% are unsure. “Congress may ultimately act in the eleventh hour, but the... 

11/17: McClatchy-Marist Poll

Do voters nationally think the Republicans and Democrats on the Congressional Super Committee will reach a deal to reduce the budget deficit?  What do voters want included in the proposal? And, who will the electorate blame if an agreement is not reached?  Find out in the latest national McClatchy-Marist Poll. ©istockphoto.com/ZoneCreative To read the full McClatchy article, click here.    Read More →

10/31: First Lady Still Thought of Favorably by More than Six in Ten

When President Barack Obama hits the campaign trail, it probably wouldn’t hurt to bring his wife along.  63% of registered voters nationally have a positive impression of First Lady Michelle Obama.  21%, however, have an unfavorable view of Mrs. Obama, and 16% are unsure how to rate her. Michelle Obama (courtesy of whitehouse.gov) Click Here for Complete October 31, 2011 USA Marist Poll Release and Tables Little has changed since Marist last reported this question in May.  At that time, 66% thought highly of Michelle Obama, 17% had a less than stellar opinion of her, and 17% were unsure. Most... 

9/22: Voters Divide About Obama’s Handling of the War in Afghanistan

President Barack Obama’s approval rating has hit a new low, and voters remain dissatisfied with his handling of the economy.  And, now, there is also increased dissatisfaction with how the president is handling the war in Afghanistan. ©istockphoto.com/KeithBinns Click Here for Complete September 22, 2011 USA Marist Poll Release and Tables According to this Marist Poll, 48% of registered voters nationally disapprove of how the president is dealing with the situation in Afghanistan while 44% approve.  Seven percent are unsure. When Marist last reported this question in June, a majority of registered... 

9/21: Nearly Half Plan to Vote Against Obama, But Is There a Winner in the GOP Field?

President Barack Obama has his work cut out for him on the campaign trail.  According to this McClatchy-Marist Poll, 49% of registered voters nationally say they definitely plan to vote against the president in next year’s election.  36% say they will cast their ballot for Mr. Obama, and 15% are unsure.  This is the highest proportion of voters since November 2010 who say they don’t think they will back the president in his re-election bid.  At that time, 48% said they would definitely vote against him. whitehouse.gov Click Here for Complete September 21, 2011 USA McClatchy Poll Release... 

9/20: McClatchy-Marist Poll

What are President Barack Obama’s re-election chances?  Is there a Republican in the field who can defeat him next year?  Find out in the latest national McClatchy-Marist Poll. ©istockphoto.com/selimaksan To read the full McClatchy article, click here.  Read More →

9/20: 39% Approval Rating for Obama, Lowest of Presidency

President Barack Obama faces a litany of bad news.  The president’s job approval rating, his favorability, and his rating on the economy have hit all-time lows.  To compound matters, three in four Americans still believe the nation is in a recession and the proportion who thinks the country is moving in the wrong direction is at its highest point in more than a decade. whitehouse.gov Click Here for Complete September 20th, 2011 USA McClatchy-Marist Poll Release and Tables According to this McClatchy-Marist Poll, the president’s approval rating is at 39% among registered voters nationally,... 

9/19: McClatchy-Marist Poll

President Barack Obama faces some bad news.  His approval rating is at its lowest point, and those who think the nation is moving in the wrong direction is at its highest point in more than a decade.  But, what do Americans think of the president’s plan to create jobs? Find out in the latest national McClatchy-Marist Poll. To read the full McClatchy article, click here.  Read More →

8/10: Obama’s Re-Election Prospects: Voters Divide

President Barack Obama asserts that change doesn’t occur overnight.  But, will registered voters nationwide give him the opportunity to fulfill his promise during a second term?  According to this McClatchy-Marist Poll, voters divide.  Four in ten — 40% — say they will definitely vote for the president next year while 40% think they will definitely vote against him.  A notable one in five — 20% — is unsure. Click Here for Complete August 10th, 2011 USA McClatchy-Marist Poll Release and Tables When McClatchy-Marist last reported this question in June, 43% of registered... 

8/9: McClatchy-Marist Poll

As speculation grows about a possible presidential run by Texas Governor Rick Perry, what are his electoral chances when matched against other potential Republican candidates and President Barack Obama?  Find out in the latest national McClatchy-Marist Poll. ©istockphoto.com/ericsphotography To read the full McClatchy article, click here.  Read More →

8/9: Nation’s Direction Takes Sharp Turn for the Worse

Americans’ views toward the future of the country have become increasingly negative.  According to this McClatchy-Marist Poll, seven in ten U.S. residents — 70% — believe the nation is moving in the wrong direction while only 21% say it is traveling along the right one.  One in ten — 10% — is unsure. ©istockphoto.com/JimLarkin Click Here for Complete August 9th, 2011 USA McClatchy-Marist Poll Release and Tables There has been a major change on this question since McClatchy-Marist last reported it in June.  At that time, 59% thought the country was on the wrong track... 

8/8: McClatchy-Marist Poll

Are Americans optimistic about the direction of the nation?  What is their reaction to the debt ceiling agreement? Find out in the latest national McClatchy-Marist Poll. ©istockphoto.com/PIKSEL To read the full McClatchy article, click here.  Read More →

6/29: 2012, Obama, and the GOP

According to this McClatchy-Marist Poll, a plurality of registered voters nationally say they plan to vote against President Barack Obama in the 2012 presidential election.  However, regardless of whom voters support, the national electorate divides about who they think will actually win.  Is there a Republican candidate who can mount a formidable challenge to the president?  In an evolving Republican field, former Massachusetts Governor Mitt Romney receives the backing of only 19% of Republican and Republican leaning independent voters.  And, three of the top four vote getters for the Republican... 

6/28: McClatchy-Marist Poll

What are President Barack Obama’s re-election chances?  Is there a Republican who can mount a formidable challenge? ©istockphoto.com/7nuit Find out in the latest national McClatchy-Marist Poll.  To read the full article, click here.  Read More →

6/28: More than Six in Ten Unhappy with Obama on Deficit … Handling of Economy at New Low

President Barack Obama met with Senate leaders yesterday to jumpstart stalled budget talks, but do voters nationwide agree with how the president is handling the federal budget deficit? whitehouse.gov Click Here for Complete June 28, 2011 USA McClatchy-Marist Poll Release and Tables According to this McClatchy-Marist poll, 61% of voters disapprove of how the president is handling the deficit.  Fewer than one-third — 31% — approve, and 8% are unsure. “President Obama is increasingly focusing on and is the focus of budget negotiations,” says Dr. Lee M. Miringoff, Director of The... 

6/27: McClatchy-Marist Poll

The U.S. deficit and economy loom over President Barack Obama’s administration.  What kind of an impact could these issues have as the president seeks re-election?  Find out in the latest national McClatchy-Marist Poll.  To read the full article, click here.  Read More →

5/24: Michelle Obama Remains Fine First Lady

First Lady Michelle Obama is perceived favorably by about two-thirds of American voters.  According to this Marist Poll, 66% of voters think well of Mrs. Obama while 17% do not.  17% are unsure how to rate her. Michelle Obama (courtesy of whitehouse.gov) Click Here for Complete May 24, 2011 USA Marist Poll Release and Tables Michelle Obama continues to be well-received by voters.  When Marist last reported this question in September, 65% thought highly of Mrs. Obama while 24% had an unfavorable view of her.  11%, at the time, were unsure how to rate her. Mrs. Obama has grown in favor among... 

4/21: Split Decision on Obama’s Handling of Situation in Libya

As unrest in Libya continues, President Barack Obama has said that Moammar Gadhafi faces greater pressure to step down.  But, when it comes to U.S. involvement in the region, do registered voters approve of how the president is handling the situation? whitehouse.gov Click Here for Complete April 21, 2011 USA McClatchy-Marist Poll Release and Tables Registered voters nationally divide.  46% disapprove, 44% approve, and one in ten — 10% — are unsure. “President Obama is walking a fine line on U.S. involvement in Libya,” says Dr. Lee M. Miringoff, Director of the Marist College... 

4/20: McClatchy-Marist Poll

Do voters approve of how President Barack Obama is handling the situation in Libya?  Do Americans blame the unrest in the Middle East for rising gas prices, or do they believe something else is the cause?  Find out in the latest national McClatchy-Marist Poll.  To read the full article, click here. ©istockphoto.com/rubenhi Complete Tables for McClatchy-Marist Poll  Read More →

4/20: Campaign 2012: Obama’s Re-election Chances

President Barack Obama has officially announced that he will seek re-election next year, but he faces an electorate that still needs convincing.  According to this McClatchy-Marist Poll, a plurality of registered voters nationwide — 44% — say they definitely plan to vote against Mr. Obama in 2012.  37% report they definitely plan to vote for him, and 18% are unsure. ©istockphoto.com/narvikk Click Here for Complete April 20, 2011 USA McClatchy-Marist Poll Release and Tables Despite the president’s transition into campaign mode, little has changed on this question since McClatchy-Marist... 

4/19: McClatchy-Marist Poll

What are the chances that President Barack Obama will win re-election next year?  Is there a Republican challenger who stands out from the pack of potential candidates?  Find out in the latest national McClatchy-Marist Poll.  To read the full article, click here. ©istockphoto.com/imagestock Complete Tables for McClatchy-Marist Poll  Read More →

4/19: High Dissatisfaction with Washington

According to this McClatchy-Marist Poll, many registered voters nationwide are not pleased with how President Barack Obama is handling the federal budget deficit.  And, there’s more bad news for the president.  President Obama’s job approval rating is stagnating, and his favorability rating isn’t much better.  Many voters also view the country as moving in the wrong direction.  But, the dissatisfaction isn’t being laid only at the gates of the White House.  Most voters disapprove of the job both the Democrats and Republicans are doing in Congress. whitehouse.gov “The approval ratings... 

4/18: McClatchy-Marist Poll

President Obama has laid out his plans to deal with the federal budget deficit.  Are voters satisfied with how he is handling the issue?  Do they approve of his overall job performance?  Do they think the nation is headed in the right or wrong direction, and what are their views toward Democrats and Republicans in Congress?  Find out in the latest national McClatchy-Marist Poll.  To read the full article, click here. Complete Tables for McClatchy-Marist Poll  Read More →

1/24: The State of the Union: Few Expect Change in Level of Confidence

As President Barack Obama prepares for tomorrow’s State of the Union address, most voters nationwide do not expect the speech to renew their confidence in the future of the country.  While more than three in ten voters believe the president’s speech will alter their view, nearly six in ten — 59% — say it will make no difference.  23% believe they will be more confident about the direction of the country following the speech, almost three times the proportion of those who think they will be less confident — 8% — after hearing the president speak.  11% are unsure. whitehouse.gov “The... 

1/14: Expectations High for Second Half of Obama’s Term

Midway into his term, President Barack Obama may be finding his political sea legs.  According to this national McClatchy-Marist Poll, when asked about how the president will perform during his next two years in office, 61% of registered voters are optimistic, saying the president will do better than he did in the previous two years of his term.  About one in five voters — 21% — think he will do a worse job, and 5% believe he will perform about the same as he already has.  12% are unsure. whitehouse.gov Click Here for Complete January 14, 2011 USA McClatchy-Marist Poll Release and... 

1/14: Most Say Compromise Key for New Congress … Fewer Predict Gridlock

According to this national McClatchy-Marist Poll, more than seven in ten registered voters — 71% — want to see compromise among political leaders in Washington in order to get things done.  Nearly one in four — 23% — disagree and believe Congressional Republicans should stand firm on their positions even if it means there is a stalemate between them and the Democrats.  Just 5% are unsure.  Little has changed on this question since McClatchy-Marist’s late November survey when 72% reported compromise should ensue, 25% thought Congressional Republicans should not waver... 

1/13: McClatchy-Marist Poll

President Barack Obama’s approval rating has rebounded.  What accounts for the upswing?  And, how does the president fare against three potential 2012 Republican challengers?  Find out in the latest national McClatchy-Marist Poll.  To read the full McClatchy article, click here. Complete Tables for McClatchy-Marist Poll  Read More →

12/13: Obama Approval Rating Lowest Since Taking Office

According to this national McClatchy-Marist Poll, President Barack Obama’s approval rating has dipped to its lowest point since taking office.  Currently, 42% of registered voters approve of the job the president is doing while half — 50% — disapprove.  Eight percent are unsure.  When McClatchy-Marist last asked this question in its November 24th survey, 45% thought his performance was on the mark while 48% thought it was subpar, and 7% were unsure.  Prior to this survey, voters gave Mr. Obama his lowest approval rating in early October.  At that time, 43% of registered voters... 

12/13: Cutting the Deficit Should Be Next Session’s Main Concern

Regardless of the current focus on the Bush-era tax cuts, voters do not want taxes to be the top priority of the next Congress.  According to 47% of voters, reducing the deficit should be the first item on their agenda.  Maintaining services and benefits is viewed by nearly three in ten voters — 28% — as the key item on the next Congress’ list while 22% think cutting taxes should be their priority.  Only 3% are unsure. Click Here for Complete December 2010 USA McClatchy-Marist Poll Release and Tables Although majorities of Republicans — 55% — and independents —... 

12/13: WikiLeaks: Prosecution Warranted … Does More Harm than Good, Say Americans

The WikiLeaks scandal has renewed debate over the scope of the First Amendment.  Should those who publish confidential or secret U.S. government documents be prosecuted, or are they protected by the First Amendment’s guarantee of a free press?  According to this national McClatchy-Marist Poll, nearly six in ten U.S. adult residents — 59% — think the publication of top secret documents is cause for prosecution while 31% say publishers are protected by their First Amendment rights.  One in ten — 10% — are unsure. ©istockphoto.com/Brasil2 Older Americans are more likely... 

12/10: McClatchy-Marist Poll

President Barack Obama’s job approval is at an all-time low.  What accounts for the drop? Find out in the latest national McClatchy-Marist Poll.  To read the full McClatchy article, click here. whitehouse.gov Plus, what do Americans think about WikiLeaks?  The McClatchy-Marist Poll gauges public opinion on that issue.  Find the full McClatchy article here. Complete Tables for McClatchy-Marist Poll  Read More →

12/9: McClatchy-Marist Poll

If Congress and President Obama do not reach an agreement and allow the Bush-era tax cuts to expire on December 31st, who voters they blame?  Find out in the latest national McClatchy-Marist Poll. ©istockphoto.com/ericsphotography To read the full McClatchy article, click here. Table for McClatchy-Marist Poll National Survey — Bush-Era Tax Cuts  Read More →

11/30: Voters Divide Over “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell”

Registered voters nationwide divide about the future of the “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell” policy.  48% do not think the current Democratic Congress should repeal the law so that gay men and women can openly serve in the U.S. military while 47% do.  Just 5% of registered voters are unsure. ©istockphoto.com/PinkTag “If you’re surprised by the controversy, look no further than the national poll numbers to see how polarized the electorate is on this issue,” says Dr. Lee M. Miringoff, Director of The Marist College Institute for Public Opinion. Opinions divide along... 

11/29: Voters Want Compromise Across the Aisle, But Doubt It Will Happen

Now that Republicans have won control of the U.S. House of Representatives, more than seven in ten registered voters in the U.S. — 72% — think Republicans should work with Democrats and President Barack Obama to get things done while 25% say the GOP should stand firm on their positions even if things don’t get done.  Three percent are unsure. Click Here for Complete USA McClatchy-Marist Poll Release and Tables Not surprisingly, most Democrats — 94% — think the Republicans should cooperate with the president and the Democrats in Congress to make progress on key issues,... 

11/29: Tax Cuts OK, But Not for the Wealthy

President Barack Obama is scheduled to meet with Congressional leaders tomorrow.  A key item on the agenda — whether to extend the Bush-era tax cuts.  Where do voters stand on the issue?  According to this McClatchy-Marist Poll, a majority of registered voters nationally — 51% — think the tax cuts should be extended only for the middle class but not for the top two percent, households earning $250,000 or more.  45% believe the tax breaks should be applied to everyone including the top two percent, and 4% are unsure. ©istockphoto.com/Devonyu Click Here for Complete USA McClatchy-Marist... 

11/29: Voters Not Satisfied with Health Care Law

It has been eight months since President Barack Obama signed the health care reform bill into law.  But, most voters aren’t completely satisfied with it.  Surprisingly, however, about as many registered voters in the United States — 35% — want Congress to amend the 2010 Health Care Law so that it does more as those who want the law to be repealed — 33%. 11% want it changed so that it does less while 16% think the law should stand in its current form.  Five percent are unsure. ©istockphoto.com/VisualField Click Here for Complete USA McClatchy-Marist Poll Release and Tables It’s... 

11/24: Looking to 2012: 48% Plan to Vote Against Obama

If the 2012 presidential election were held today, President Barack Obama would have his work cut out for him.  48% of registered voters nationwide report they plan to definitely vote against Mr. Obama while 36% say they will definitely vote for him.  16% are undecided. ©istockphoto.com/ericsphotography Click Here for Complete USA McClatchy-Marist Poll Release and Tables The president needs to make inroads with independent voters.  Half — 50% — report they definitely will not support him in his re-election bid.  Three in ten say they definitely plan to vote for him, and 20% are... 

11/24: Voters Divide Over Obama’s Approval Rating

Among registered voters nationally, 45% approve of President Barack Obama’s job performance while 48% disapprove.  Seven percent are unsure. whitehouse.gov When McClatchy-Marist last asked this question in late October, 48% approved of the president’s job performance, 43% disapproved, and 9% were unsure. Click Here for Complete USA McClatchy-Marist Poll Release and Tables Independent voters are responsible for the change.  Currently, 38% of these voters approve of the job the president is doing in office, 54% disapprove, and 9% are unsure.  Late last month, 48% approved of the president’s... 

11/23: McClatchy-Marist Poll

Do voters plan to support President Barack Obama in his re-election bid in 2012?  Do Democrats want someone to challenge him in the primaries? Who do Republicans want to face off against the president?  Find out in the latest national McClatchy-Marist Poll. whitehouse.gov To read the complete McClatchy article, click here. Complete Tables for McClatchy-Marist Poll of the United States  Read More →

11/22: McClatchy-Marist Poll

Do voters want Congress to repeal the 2010 Health Care Law?  What are their views on “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell” and the Bush tax cuts?  Find out in the latest national McClatchy-Marist Poll. To read the full McClatchy article, click here. Complete Tables for McClatchy-Marist Poll of the United States  Read More →

10/29: McClatchy-Marist Poll

Where do the races for U.S. Senate in Colorado, Pennsylvania, Washington State, and Wisconsin stand?  Find out in the latest McClatchy-Marist Poll. ©istockphoto.com/image stock To read the full McClatchy article, click here. Complete Tables for McClatchy-Marist Poll of Colorado Complete Tables for McClatchy-Marist Poll of Pennsylvania Complete Tables for McClatchy-Marist Poll of Washington State Complete Tables for McClatchy-Marist Poll of Wisconsin  Read More →

10/28: Turnout Key for Midterm Elections

While Democrats have the edge among registered voters nationwide heading into next week’s midterm elections for Congress, Republicans have the advantage among those who are most likely to vote. ©istockphoto.com/3dbrained Click Here for Complete October 28, 2010 USA McClatchy-Marist Poll Release and Tables According to this McClatchy-Marist Poll, 47% of registered voters nationwide report they are more likely to vote for a Democrat in their district while 41% say they are more likely to support a Republican.  Six percent do not plan to vote for either party’s candidate, and 6% are undecided. When... 

10/27: McClatchy-Marist Poll

President Barack Obama has been traveling the country to campaign for the Democrats in this year’s midterm elections.  Has it had an impact?  Find out in the latest national McClatchy-Marist Poll. whitehouse.gov To read the full McClatchy article, click here. Complete Tables for the McClatchy-Marist Poll of the United States  Read More →

10/19: McClatchy-Marist Poll

In the race for U.S. Senate in Washington State, how do the candidates currently stack up?  Find out in the latest McClatchy-Marist Poll of Washington. ©istockphoto.com/FotografiaBasica To read the full McClatchy article, click here. Complete Tables for the McClatchy-Marist Poll of Washington.  Read More →

10/8: Enthusiasm Gap Still Wide for November’s Elections

According to this McClatchy-Marist Poll, 36% of registered voters in the United States are very enthusiastic about voting in this November’s elections.  This is consistent with September’s McClatchy-Marist Poll when about one-third of voters — 33% — expressed the same level of enthusiasm. ©istockphoto.com/imagestock Click Here for the Complete October 8, 2010 USA McClatchy-Marist Poll Results and Tables Republican voters continue to be more enthusiastic than Democratic voters.  Currently, a majority of Republicans — 51% — compared with 28% of Democrats report a high... 

10/8: Obama Approval Rating at 43%, but Majority of Voters Confident in Obama’s Approach

Half of registered voters nationwide — 50% — disapprove of the job President Barack Obama is doing in office while 43% approve.  Seven percent are unsure. whitehouse.gov Click Here for Complete October 8, 2010 USA McClatchy-Marist Poll Results and Tables Little has changed since the last national McClatchy-Marist survey.  In that September poll, the same proportion of the national electorate — 50% — disapproved of the president’s job performance while 45% approved.  Five percent were unsure. “The battle lines are drawn for the midterm elections,” says Dr. Lee M.... 

10/7: McClatchy-Marist Poll

When it comes to November’s midterm elections, are Democrats or Republicans more enthusiastic?  Find out in the latest national McClatchy-Marist poll. To read the full McClatchy article, click here. Complete Tables for McClatchy-Marist Poll of the USA  Read More →

10/1: McClatchy-Marist Poll

Colorado, Pennsylvania, and Wisconsin have three of the most hotly contested races for U.S. Senate this election cycle.  What are the odds Republicans will take over these seats?  Find out in the latest McClatchy-Marist Polls in each of these states. ©istockphoto.com/sjlocke To read the full McClatchy article, click here. Complete Tables for McClatchy-Marist Poll of Colorado Complete Tables for McClatchy-Marist Poll of Pennsylvania Complete Tables for McClatchy-Marist Poll of Wisconsin  Read More →

9/22: GOP Over Dems on Enthusiasm for Midterm Elections

According to this McClatchy-Marist Poll, about one-third of registered voters nationwide — 33% — report they are very enthusiastic about casting their ballot this November. Click Here for Complete September 22, 2010 USA McClatchy-Marist Poll Results and Tables Republican voters are more excited about their vote than are Democratic voters.  46% of Republican voters compared with 30% of Democrats are very enthusiastic about voting in the upcoming midterm elections.  23% of independent voters also express a high level of enthusiasm. “This is what the campaign strategists are calculating. ... 

9/22: Obama Approval Rating at 45% … Economic Views a Factor

For the first time since taking office, half of registered voters nationwide — 50% — disapprove of President Barack Obama’s job performance.  That’s according to this McClatchy-Marist Poll.  45%, however, approve, and 5% are unsure. whitehouse.gov Click Here for Complete September 22, 2010 USA McClatchy-Marist Poll Results and Tables While the proportion of voters who approve of the job the president is doing changed little since Marist last asked about it in June, there has been a slight increase in the proportion of voters who disapprove of the job Mr. Obama is doing.  At that... 

9/22: Inside the Midterm Elections

On November 2nd, American voters will go to the polls and decide who will win the 2010 midterm elections.  Republicans believe they have a chance to regain a majority in the Senate and recapture a number of seats in the House.  But, will Tea Party candidates hurt Republican chances to re-take the Senate?  What are the chances Tea Party candidates will prevail on Election Day? What does all of this say about how voters feel about the job President Obama and the Democrats are doing?  The Marist Poll’s John Sparks talks with syndicated political columnist Carl Leubsdorf who writes a weekly column... 

9/22: The Political Climate Leading Up To the Midterm Elections

Will a record number of incumbents go down in defeat in this November’s midterm elections?  Will Republicans regain control of the Senate?  What impact will the Tea Party have on the election?  Will its candidates who won primary victories over Republicans be able defeat Democrats in the general election?  Is President Obama in trouble?  Veteran news correspondent Bonnie Angelo discusses the upcoming election with the Marist Poll’s John Sparks. Bonnie Angelo, author of "First Families: The Impact of the White House on Their Lives" and "First Mothers: The Women Who Shaped... 

9/21: McClatchy-Marist Poll

Looking ahead to 2012, who would Republicans pick as their candidate to challenge President Barack Obama?  One-quarter of Republican voters and independents who lean Republican would select former Massachusetts Governor Mitt Romney, according to the latest McClatchy-Marist Poll. Mitt Romney (photo courtesy of www.mass.gov) To read the full McClatchy article, click here.  Read More →

9/20: McClatchy-Marist Poll

Do U.S. voters want the Bush tax cuts extended to all Americans?  Do Americans think the the country is still in a recession?  Find out in the latest national McClatchy-Marist Poll. ©istockphoto.com/alexsl To read the full McClatchy article, click here.  Read More →

7/6: Electoral Danger for Congressional Incumbents

Members of the U.S. Congress up for re-election this year are walking a tightrope with voters.  If November’s elections were held today, voters divide about whether they would support their current elected official or if they would vote for someone else.  43% report they would support someone else while 42% think they would cast their ballot for the incumbent.  15% are unsure. “The big question for this election cycle is whether voters’ dissatisfaction will result in wholesale turnover of incumbents,” says Dr. Lee M. Miringoff, Director of The Marist College Institute for Public Opinion. There... 

6/30: Turning Tides … Half View Obama as Not Meeting Expectations

For the first time since taking office, more registered voters in the United States think President Barack Obama is falling below their expectations than those who say he is either meeting or exceeding them.  Half of voters — 50% — believe Mr. Obama has fallen short.  44%, on the other hand, report Mr. Obama has met or exceeded their expectations.  6% are unsure. whitehouse.gov Click Here for Complete June 30, 2010 USA Poll Release and Tables Public opinion has turned on this question.  In March, a slim majority — 51% — said the president either reached their level of... 

6/30: 57% Say Obama’s Handling of Gulf Spill No Better Than Bush’s Katrina

President George Bush’s handling of Hurricane Katrina was a black mark on his administration, and now, there’s bad news for his successor.  Nearly six in ten voters nationwide — 57% — say President Barack Obama’s handling of the oil spill in the Gulf of Mexico is either the same or worse than Bush’s handling of Katrina.  This includes 34% who report Obama’s management of the disaster is comparable and 23% who view it as worse.  37%, however, say he is handling the crisis better than Bush managed Katrina.  6% are unsure. Controlled burns were part of the effort to reduce... 

6/30: Spill in the Gulf — On the Ground

How well are President Obama and the federal government responding to the oil spill in the Gulf of Mexico?  Tom Bancroft is the Chief Scientist for the National Audubon Society which is extremely concerned about restoring the ecosystems damaged by the oil.  While on the Gulf Coast to assess the damage and to train volunteers in efforts to preserve the wildlife, he spoke with the Marist Poll’s John Sparks.  Listen to the interview or read the transcript below. Tom Bancroft Listen to Part 1: Powered by Podbean.com John Sparks The Marist Poll asked the American public whether they approved or... 

5/25: The Press & the President

Is today’s news media fair in its coverage of President Barack Obama?  Nearly half of Americans — 49% — think so.  38% believe they are unfair, and 13% are unsure.  Similar proportions of registered voters nationally have these views. ©istockphoto.com/stocksnapper Not surprisingly, there is a partisan divide.  48% of Democrats think the media’s coverage of President Obama is fair while 48% of Republicans think it is unfair.  Independents are more likely to view the press as fair in its coverage of the president than unfair. Women give the press more credit than do men. ... 

5/19: Americans Believe Global View of U.S. Is Poor

Two-thirds of American residents — 67% — think people in other countries generally view the U.S. negatively.  27% believe America is viewed positively, and 6% are unsure. ©istockphoto.com/mstay “The idea that the U.S. needs an economic recovery is not earth shattering,” says Dr. Lee M. Miringoff, Director of The Marist College Institute for Public Opinion.  ”But, these numbers indicate that Americans also believe the U.S. is in need of an image overhaul in the world community.” When it comes to the nation’s power and influence around the world, 48% of... 

5/19: An American Student’s Experience with Global Perceptions of the U.S.

Rob Schmidt, a Marist College political science major, spent his spring semester studying in London and working in the British Parliament as part of the Hansard Scholars Program.  And, in an interview conducted before the British Parliamentary elections, Schmidt spoke with Political Communication and Politics student, Andrew Overton, about the results of the latest national Marist Poll focusing on the global perception of America, the differences between British and American politics, and his own experiences studying abroad.  This interview was conducted as part of Overton’s senior year... 

3/31: Voters Divide Over Obama’s Job Performance

The passage of health insurance reform has had only a slight impact on President Barack Obama’s approval rating nationwide.  46% of registered voters approve of the job the president is doing while 43% disapprove.  11% are unsure. whitehouse.gov Click Here for Complete March 31, 2010 USA Poll Release and Tables Mr. Obama’s approval rating has been hovering in the mid-40s for several months.  When Marist last asked this question in early February, 44% thought the president was doing well in office compared with 47% who did not.  In December, 46% approved of his performance while 44% gave... 

3/31: Handling of Health Care Gets “Thumbs-Down” From Majority of Voters

The White House achieved a major victory by passing health insurance reform.  But, when it comes to American voters’ views toward how the president handles the issue of health care, the reviews are not glowing. ©istockphoto.com/spxChrome Click Here for Complete March 31, 2010 Poll Release and Tables 53% of registered voters nationwide disapprove of how President Barack Obama is managing health care.  41%, on the other hand, approve, and 6% are unsure.  There has been little change on this question since Marist last asked it in December.  At that time, 53% disapproved of the president’s... 

3/31: Voters to Congress, “Watch Your Back!”

45% of registered voters nationwide are not satisfied with their elected officials in the U.S. Congress.  This is the proportion of the electorate who say if this fall’s elections were held today, they would not support their current elected official in Congress and would vote for someone new.  41% would vote for the incumbent, and 14% are unsure. Click Here for Complete March 31, 2010 Poll Release and Tables Little has changed on this question since Marist last asked it in February.  At that time, 44% said they would elect someone new, 42% wanted their current elected official to remain in... 

2/8: Obama Approval Rating Below 50% … Disapproval Among Majority of Independents

Fewer registered voters nationwide — 44% — currently approve of President Barack Obama’s job performance than disapprove — 47%.  When Marist last asked about the president’s approval rating in December, 46% thought well of Obama’s job performance while 44% gave him low marks. whitehouse.gov Click Here for Complete February 8, 2010 USA Poll Release & Tables Perhaps, particularly concerning for Mr. Obama is the drop in support among Independents.  For the first time since taking office, a majority of Independents — 57% — disapproves of how he is doing... 

2/8: Congressional Incumbents, Beware! Voters Divide Over 2010 Candidates

Members of the U.S. Congress face re-election this year, and they may want to listen up.  Registered voters nationwide divide about whether they would support their current elected official or vote for someone else.  If the 2010 election for Congress were held today, 44% say they would vote to elect someone new while 42% would like to see their congressperson stick around.  14% are unsure. Click Here for Complete February 8, 2010 USA Poll Release & Tables “The winds of change are still blowing around the nation.  If your working address is the U.S. Capitol, you have to watch these... 

12/15: Favorable First Lady

Overall, registered voters nationally like First Lady Michelle Obama.  68% have a favorable impression of her compared with 20% who hold an unfavorable view of her.  Even a majority of Republicans — 53% — think well of Mrs. Obama.  85% of Democrats and 61% of Independents say the same. Michelle Obama (courtesy of whitehouse.gov) Table: Michelle Obama Favorability High Marks for Mrs. Obama’s Performance as First Lady Michelle Obama is also scoring points in how she is doing as First Lady of the United States.  57% of registered voters nationwide think Mrs. Obama is doing well... 

12/10: Confidence in Obama Wanes Amid Health Care Debate

The president has lost support among registered voters nationwide in his quest to reform the health care system.  A majority of voters — 53% — disapprove of how Mr. Obama is handling health care while 40% approve.  When Marist last asked about health care in October, 49% disapproved of how the president was dealing with the issue, and 44% approved. ©istockphoto.com/jsnover While Mr. Obama’s Democratic base is firm, he has lost the backing of some Republicans and Independents.  8% of GOP voters say they agree with the president’s tactics in the health care arena while 87% disagree. ... 

12/10: Time for a Congressional Turnover?

The 2010 midterm elections are less than a year away.  So, just how worried should representatives in Congress be? U.S. Capitol building 51% of registered voters nationwide say they would support their current representative if the election were held today.  37% report they would vote for someone else.  12% are unsure. Democrats are more satisfied with their representatives than are Republicans.  60% of Democrats would back their current elected official while 29% say they would support someone else.  Republican voters, however, are more change-oriented.  44% say they would back the incumbent... 

12/8: Obama’s Hope to Unite Falls Short

Registered voters nationally are divided about President Barack Obama’s job approval rating.  46% approve of his job performance while 44% disapprove.  One in ten voters is unsure. whitehouse.gov This is the first time the president has lost majority support on this question since taking office.  When Marist last asked this question in October, 53% of voters gave the president high marks. Click Here for Complete December 8, 2009 USA Poll Release and Tables Partisanship is alive and well here, but Mr. Obama has slipped slightly among voters in both parties.  77% of Democrats approve of the... 

12/8: Economic Tides Turn for Obama

For the first time since President Barack Obama took office, a majority of registered voters nationwide — 51% — disapprove of the way the president is handling the economy. 45%, on the other hand, approve of his financial management. ©istockphoto.com/alexsl When Marist last asked about Obama’s handling of the economy in October, the electorate was divided.  48% thought the president’s management was on track while 47% believed he was off the mark.  The perception of Mr. Obama’s economic prowess has been on the decline.  In August, a slim majority — 52% — thought... 

12/8: Slight Bounce in Obama’s Policy in Afghanistan

47% of registered voters nationwide approve of how President Barack Obama is handling the war in Afghanistan while 43% disapprove.  There has been a slight improvement for the president on this question since Marist last asked it October.  At that time, 43% approved while 45% disapproved. ©istockphoto.com/rubenhi There has also been a slight change in support among the parties.  More Republican voters currently support the president’s actions in Afghanistan compared with Marist’s October survey.  32% say they approve of his management while 24% thought this way two months ago.  Mr. Obama... 

10/15: President Loses Support in Handling of War in Afghanistan

Registered voters nationwide divide about President Barack Obama’s management of the war in Afghanistan.  43% approve, and 45% disapprove.  12% are unsure.  The electorate’s confidence in the president’s handling of this issue has been shaken.  When Marist last asked this question in June, nearly six in ten — 57% — backed the president on this question.  Just 24% disapproved. ©istockphoto.com/KeithBinns The change in opinion has occurred across party lines.  Currently, 62% of Democrats agree with how the president is dealing with this issue.  This proportion is down from... 

10/14: Obama’s Approval Rating 53%…Loss Among Independents

President Barack Obama maintains the support of a majority of registered voters nationwide.  However, he continues to slide in the eyes of Independent voters.  Currently, 53% of voters approve of the job the president is doing in office while 41% disapprove.  When Marist last asked about President Obama in August, 55% gave the president their stamp of approval.  Similar proportions of voters thought this way in Marist’s June, April 27th, and April 8th surveys — 56%, 55%, and 56%, respectively. whitehouse.gov There has been little change among Democrats and Republicans.  Most Democrats... 

10/14: Obama’s Handling of Health Care…Not What the Doctor Ordered?

Just less than half — 49% — of the U.S. electorate disapproves of how President Barack Obama is handling health care.  44% approve.  When Marist last asked this question in August, voters divided. 43% of registered voters approved of Mr. Obama’s handling of health care while 45% did not. ©istockphoto.com/VisualField Since that previous poll, opinion remains split along party lines. 68% of Democrats approve of the president’s actions while 80% of Republicans disapprove.  Two months ago, 74% of Democrats and 76% of Republicans held these respective views.  Little has changed... 

10/14: Voters Divide Over Handling of Economy…Independents Slip

Slightly less than half of registered voters nationwide — 48% — approve of the way President Obama is handling the economy.  47% disapprove.  In Marist’s August survey, the president had a slim majority of voters who thought he was handling the economy well.  52% approved of his actions while 41% did not at that time. ©istockphoto.com/alexsi Although there continues to be a partisan divide on this issue, the bigger cause for worry for the president is his drop in support among Independents.  Looking at the Democrats, three-quarters agree with Mr. Obama’s economic strategy. ... 

8/18: 2012 Prospects: Palin a Force in GOP But Not General Electorate

Former Alaska Governor Sarah Palin may still be making news headlines, but the U.S. electorate has news for her.  If the 2012 presidential election were held today and she were the Republican candidate, Palin would not defeat President Barack Obama.  In fact, the president would win the election by a considerable margin. Sarah Palin 56% of U.S. registered voters report they would cast their ballot for the president while 33% would vote for Palin.  It’s probably not a shock that public opinion divides along party lines.  92% of Democrats would support Obama in this hypothetical contest while... 

8/12: Obama Approval Rating 55% … Loses Majority of Independents

While the Obama Administration is embroiled in a bitter battle to get a health care plan pushed through Congress, President Barack Obama is faring well, overall, in the eyes of a majority of voters.  However, the president’s job performance may have lost a bit of its luster for members of one key voting group for the first time since taking office. whitehouse.gov 55% of U.S. registered voters approve of the job President Barack Obama is doing in office while 35% say they disapprove.  The president has held his own in the court of public opinion during the last few months.  In The Marist Poll’s... 

6/8: Majority Lauds Obama’s Overall Job Performance

56% of registered U.S. voters approve of President Barack Obama’s job performance.  The president’s approval rating has remained consistent during the past two months.  When The Marist Poll asked this question in its April 27th and April 8th surveys, Mr. Obama received 55% and 56% approval ratings, respectively.  However, fervor among younger voters has died down.  In those previous polls, 18 to 29 year olds tipped the scales toward the president’s positive approval ratings with his rating among this group in the seventies.  The current proportion of voters within this age group who... 

4/27: Majority Approves of Obama’s Job Performance

As President Barack Obama nears his 100th day in office, 55% of registered voters nationwide say they approve of the job he is doing while 31% disapprove.  President Obama received a similar job approval rating when The Marist Poll last asked this question in its April 8th survey.  As in that previous poll, younger voters play a large role in giving Mr. Obama majority approval.  70% of voters under the age of thirty say they like the job President Obama is doing. whitehouse.gov When it comes to the partisan divide, however, the president still needs to make inroads with Republican voters. ... 

4/27: Obama’s Policy — Voters Weigh In

If President Barack Obama’s 100th day benchmark were the end of a school semester, Mr. Obama would receive high grades from a majority — 58% — of voters nationwide.  In a poll conducted in 2001, President Bush received a similar report card from the electorate. When evaluating Barack Obama’s term in office so far, 23% of voters say they would give the president an “A,” and 35% think he has earned a “B.”  Just 11% of the electorate say he deserves a failing grade.  Partisanship plays a role in voters’ views.  86% of Democrats would give the president... 

4/16: A New Era for First Ladies?

Nearly three months after her husband assumed the highest office in the land, a plurality of Americans — 44% — thinks Michelle Obama represents change for the better as First Lady of the United States.  Just 4% have a negative impression of Mrs. Obama in her new role, and 31% feel Michelle Obama has yet to make her mark. whitehouse.gov Looking at party lines, not surprisingly, Democrats most appreciate the change. 72% of Democrats think Mrs. Obama is having a positive effect on the role of first lady.  And, although far fewer Republicans — 20% — see her as changing things... 

First Ladies’ Footsteps: An Interview

She’s covered every first lady since Mamie Eisenhower.  Now, former White House correspondent and author, Bonnie Angelo, shares her views about Michelle Obama with The Marist Poll’s John Sparks.  Read the transcript of the full interview below. Bonnie Angelo, author of "First Families: The Impact of the White House on Their Lives" and "First Mothers: The Women Who Shaped the Presidents" (courtesy HarperCollins). John Sparks Bonnie, I want to start out by talking about Michelle Obama.  How would you rate Michelle and the job she’s doing as first lady? Listen... 

4/8: Majority Approves of Obama’s Job Performance

With just about two-and-a-half months under his belt, 56% of registered voters nationwide approve of the job President Barack Obama is doing in office.  30%, however, disapprove.  Mr. Obama’s positive approval rating is bolstered by the perceptions of younger voters.  More than three-quarters of registered voters under the age of thirty — 76% — approve of the president’s job so far.  That’s a far greater share than in any other age group.  Mr. Obama does need to do more to bridge the gap between the two parties.  While 88% of Democrats give the president high marks, just... 

4/8: Handling of the Economy in Mid-50′s

A majority of U.S. voters nationwide — 54% — approve of the way President Barack Obama is handling today’s turbulent economy, and a similar proportion — 57% — report that President Obama is on the money when it comes to dealing with the current economic crisis. ©istockphoto.com/Squareplum When it comes to placing blame, more than three-quarters of the U.S. electorate say, today’s current economic conditions are not President Obama’s fault.  76% of voters nationwide think the economic issues facing the nation are mostly inherited while just 13% believe they are a... 

4/8: Majority Approves of Obama’s Foreign Policy

On the heels of President Barack Obama’s first trip overseas, 55% of voters nationwide say they approve of how the president is handling foreign policy.  And, while 24% of voters disapprove, a notable proportion — 21% — do not have a definite opinion on the subject.  Looking across party lines, 82% of Democrats think President Obama is doing well internationally.  This is compared with just 4% who think the president is not up to snuff.  Across the partisan aisle, nearly three in ten Republicans — 29% — do not have a firm opinion of President Obama’s handling of... 

4/8: Slow Down You Move Too Fast

No, this isn’t about the 24/7 cable driven news cycle that is dominating political coverage.  I’ll save that for another day. Instead, this rant focuses on the GOP and how it might weather tough electoral times. Despite a relatively clear cut electoral outcome in November, D.C. is already waist deep in partisanship. Beltway Democrats and Republicans are travelling down a well-worn path.  Now, I know the party bickering never really subsided.  But, I believe it’s in the Republican self-interest and national interest, as well, for GOP leaders to rise above the fray and give Obama his electoral... 

Kudos for Michelle Obama

A majority of U.S. residents give Michelle Obama high marks for her performance as first lady. 52% say that Mrs. Obama is doing either an excellent or good job in the position while just 9% believe she is handling herself poorly. 24% are unsure. whitehouse.gov But, the first lady is not immune from party politics. 75% of Democrats report Mrs. Obama is performing well in the position. That’s compared with just 30% of Republicans. However, a notable proportion of the GOP — 36% — is unsure how to rate her. Women give First Lady Michelle Obama higher marks than do men. 57% of women compared... 

The Inauguration: A View From the Crowd

We had no tickets to the Inauguration.  We simply walked toward the National Mall.  It was freezing; the sun at 7:30 a.m. did little to warm us.  We started about a mile away, where the streets weren’t quite so crowded; I thought that, perhaps, all the handwringing over the sheer number of attendees was overdone.  But, based on the way bleary-eyed revelers were stuffed in coffee shops, seeking a caffeinated thaw as they approached the city center, it was clear that Washington was going to be overwhelmed that day. Indeed, the crowds multiplied the closer we came to the Mall.  Pretty soon... 

Election Night: Witnessing History

It was an unusually warm November evening marred only by a few sporadic raindrops — Election Night 2008. A hum of anticipation weaved its way through a growing crowd gathered on NBC’s “Election Plaza,” and within hours, that buzz escalated into a symphony of cheers, chants and applause, climaxing the moment NBC declared Barack Obama the first African-American president of the United States. For pollsters and political junkies, few things compare with the excitement of Election Night. This year, though, was different. History would be made regardless of who won, and the team at the Marist... 

Talking Transition: 63% Approve of Obama’s Performance

A considerable majority of registered voters in the United States are giving President-elect Barack Obama high marks for the job he’s doing during his transition into office. 63% say they approve of his performance while just 10% of voters disapprove. 27% are on the fence, reporting they are unsure about how the president-elect is doing. In the wake of this year’s bitter campaign battle, prominent partisan differences linger. 86% of Democrats approve of President-elect Obama’s job performance. Read the full post  Read More →

Congressional Overdrive? 48% Disapprove of Auto Rescue Plan

The U.S. House of Representatives may have approved a $14 billion plan to rescue the American auto industry, but nearly half of Americans say they disapprove of the government’s intervention. With action on the legislation expected in the U.S. Senate as early as today, 48% of U.S. residents nationwide disapprove of Congress providing federal loans to the automakers while 41% approve of the federal assistance. Looking at registered voters in the United States, the numbers are similar. Read the full post  Read More →

Battle for the White House: The Final National Poll

The campaign trail comes to an end today for Senator Barack Obama and Senator John McCain. In a Marist Poll, conducted entirely on the eve of Election Day, Barack Obama leads John McCain by 9 percentage points nationally — 52% to 43% — among likely voters including those who are undecided yet leaning toward a candidate. In Marist’s Sunday night poll, McCain trailed Obama by the same margin among this group. Among registered voters nationwide, Obama is now ahead of McCain 50% to 42%. Read the full post  Read More →

The American Electorate: Great Expectations?

53% of registered voters nationwide say they are enthusiastic about the choices they have for president while 44% aren’t as energized. But, there’s more to the story. The proportion of Barack Obama’s supporters who report being excited about their choice of candidates is more than double that of John McCain’s. 81% of voters behind Obama are enthused compared with 37% of John McCain’s backers. Read the full post  Read More →

Obama Leads McCain by 9 Percentage Points Nationally

After months of campaigning, the presidential contest comes down to mere hours. Heading into Election Day, Senator Barack Obama is ahead of his Republican rival, Senator John McCain, by 9 percentage points nationally — 53% to 44% — among likely voters including those who are undecided yet leaning toward a candidate. In a Marist Poll conducted just last week, Obama held a 7 percentage point lead. Among registered voters nationwide, Obama is currently ahead of McCain, 51% to 42%, respectively. Read the full post  Read More →

Battle for the White House: The National Matchup

Going into the last weekend of the campaign, Senator Barack Obama leads Senator John McCain 50% to 43% nationally among likely voters including early voters and those who are undecided yet leaning toward a candidate. Obama has held a similar lead among this group of voters for more than a month now. In a Marist Poll conducted in early October, Obama was ahead of McCain by 5 percentage points — 49% to 44%. Read the full post  Read More →

The Battleground: The Presidential Race in Pennsylvania

Senator Barack Obama has a strong lead in the contest for Pennsylvania’s 21 electoral votes. Among registered voters in the state, Obama is ahead with 52% to McCain’s 39%. Obama has gained ground since a Marist Poll conducted earlier this month when he was ahead by 9 percentage points. The gap among registered voters now stands at 13 percentage points. Read entire post  Read More →

The Battleground: The Presidential Race in Ohio

Senator Barack Obama receives the support of 46% of registered voters in Ohio compared with 43% for Senator John McCain. When it comes to likely voters, including those who are undecided yet leaning toward a candidate, Obama has 48% to 45% for McCain. In a Marist Poll conducted just two weeks ago, Obama had 49% among likely voters to McCain’s 45%. Read entire post  Read More →

The Presidential Race: Who’s Better On Health Care?

51% of registered voters nationally believe Senator Barack Obama is the better candidate to tackle the issue of health care. He outpaces his Republican opponent, Senator John McCain, by 13 percentage points. McCain has the confidence of 38% of the U.S. electorate who think he is the one to reform health care. There is a partisan divide on the issue. Read the full post  Read More →

Battle for the White House: Obama Keeps Slight Edge

Senator Barack Obama leads Senator John McCain 47% to 43% among registered voters nationwide. Obama enjoys a similar lead among likely voters including those who are undecided yet leaning toward a candidate. Here, he edges McCain 49% to 44%. In a similar survey released by Marist College last week, registered voters nationally reported they prefer Obama to McCain by the same proportion — 47% to 43%. Read the full post  Read More →

High Stakes: A Vice Presidential Debate Preview

A plurality of registered voters nationwide — 45% — think Senator Joe Biden will beat his Republican opponent, Governor Sarah Palin, during Thursday night’s vice presidential debate while 36% think Palin will make the better showing. However, close to one in five voters, including nearly a quarter of Independents, say they just don’t know which candidate will be victorious. Republican and Democratic voters stand along party lines. Read the full post  Read More →

Battle for the White House: Obama Edges McCain Nationally

Democrat Barack Obama has the support of 47% of voters nationally while 43% say they are behind McCain. Looking at likely voters including those who are undecided yet leaning toward a candidate, Obama leads McCain 49% to 44%. The partisan divide is wide. 87% of Republicans favor McCain while 84% of Democrats are on-board with Obama. By a margin of 12 percentage points, Independent voters likely to vote on Election Day favor Obama 50% to 38% for McCain. Read the full post  Read More →

Face Off: The First Presidential Debate?

John McCain proposed yesterday that he and Barack Obama postpone tomorrow night’s debate so that lawmakers may focus on handling the nation’s economic crisis. Obama wants to have the debate to discuss the issues. 42% of the national electorate agrees with the Arizona senator while 53% agrees with Obama that the debate should go on as planned. Read the full post  Read More →

Campaign 2008 (Nov. 6, 2007)

Following last Tuesday’s Democratic debate, Hillary Clinton has a commanding, though diminished, lead nationwide against her rivals for the Democratic nomination. Overall, 48% of Democrats and Democratic-leaning independents nationwide support Senator Hillary Clinton for the nomination. Her closest primary opponent is Senator Barack Obama who receives 17% followed by John Edwards with 10%. But, a comparison of interviews completed before and after last week’s Democratic debate reveals Hillary Clinton’s support among Democratic primary voters was 52% before the debate and 43% after the debate. Read... 

National Poll: The Home Front for U.S Veterans of Iraq

Most Americans do not believe either the Bush Administration or the Department of Veterans Affairs has done a good job in meeting the needs of the men and women who have returned home from Iraq. 70% disapprove of the job the Bush Administration has done and 65% do not think the Department of Veterans Affairs has done well. Read the full post  Read More →

National Poll: Personally Presidential

59% of voters nationwide believe too much attention is placed on the personal lives of the candidates running for president. However, when asked whether or not it’s important to know about a number of things that would ordinarily be considered personal, most voters think it’s important or, at least, interesting for this information to be public knowledge. Not surprisingly, 90% of voters think it’s important in deciding their vote to have information about the mental health of a candidate. Read the full post  Read More →

Campaign 2008 (May 8)

Senator Hillary Clinton still outpaces her Democratic rivals by a wide margin. She has the support of over one-third of Democrats and Democratic leaning independents nationwide and leads her closest primary opponent, Senator Barack Obama, by 18 percentage points. 35% of potential Democratic primary voters support Clinton, and 17% support Obama. Former Senator John Edwards follows with 15%. In addition, 60% of Hillary Clinton’s supporters in the primary say they are firmly committed to voting for her. Read the full post  Read More →

Campaign 2008 (Feb. 19, 2007)

Hillary Clinton still outpaces her Democratic rivals nationwide as the Democrats’ choice for their party’s presidential nomination: Hillary Clinton outdistances her closest contender for the Democratic nomination for president, Senator Barack Obama, by more than two to one among Democrats and Democratic leaning independents. Senator Obama, for his part, has emerged for the first time in sole possession of second place. He is followed by former Vice President Al Gore and former Senator John Edwards who are tied for third. Read the full post  Read More →

Campaign 2008 (Dec. 7, 2006)

Hillary Clinton is a strong favorite among Democrats, but is she electable? Hillary Clinton outdistances her closest Democratic rivals by more than two to one among Democrats and Democratic leaning independents for her party’s nomination. Read the full post  Read More →

Voters Want Giuliani to Run

Will America’s mayor become America’s president? Former New York City Mayor Rudy Giuliani is one of the top Republican presidential contenders for 2008 and the only leading potential candidate, Democrat or Republican, that a majority of registered voters nationwide would like to see run for president. Many voters also see him as ideologically acceptable although this is fueled by 70% of Republicans who see him as politically about right. But voters divide over whether they think he will, in fact, run for president and many are not optimistic about his chances should he decide to do so. Read... 

Clinton, Rice Lead Polls, but Is U.S. Ready for Woman President?

Hillary Clinton is a formidable favorite among Democrats for her party’s presidential nomination. A majority of Democrats like her more than they did just two years ago. Democrats generally think she is ideologically about right, neither too liberal nor too conservative. Most of them would like to see her enter the presidential contest in 2008, and many think she will. But like the other potential Democratic and Republican presidential candidates for 2008, Senator Clinton faces a general electorate that is divided over who they would like to see in the race. Read the full post  Read More →

National Poll: Voters Weigh In on White House Controversies

Among the many controversies surrounding the Bush Administration, its response to Hurricane Katrina is most troubling to voters. 66% of registered voters nationwide are bothered a great deal or a good amount by the administration’s response to Hurricane Katrina. Although Democrats are most critical, 64% of independents and 42% of Republicans are bothered by how the administration handled the disaster. Read the full post  Read More →

National Poll: Is America Ready for a Woman President?

Voters divide over whether they would support a woman nominated by one of the two major political parties for president. 26% of registered voters say they are likely to support a woman for president regardless of whether she is a Democrat or a Republican. At the other extreme, 28% would not support a woman for the United States’ top job regardless of which political party nominated her. 25% would support a woman if she became the Democratic nominee for president, and 21% would support her if she were the Republican nominee. Read the full post  Read More →

Campaign 2008 (May 6, 2005)

New York Senator Hillary Clinton outpaces the field of potential Democratic candidates nationwide for the party’s 2008 presidential nomination. Clinton receives 40% among registered Democrats and Democratic leaning Independents. Senator John Kerry with 18% and former Senator John Edwards with 16%, follow. Senator Joe Biden, retired General Wesley Clark, Senator Russ Feingold, New Mexico Governor Bill Richardson, Virginia Governor Mark Warner, Senator Evan Bayh, and Iowa Governor Tom Vilsack trail with single digit support. 12% of Democrats are undecided. Read the full post  Read More →

Morning Line Campaign 2008

New York Senator Hillary Clinton leads the field of potential Democratic candidates nationwide for the party’s 2008 presidential nomination. Clinton receives 39% among registered Democrats and Democratic leaning Independents. Her closest contenders are Senator John Kerry with 21% and former Senator John Edwards with 15%. Senator Joe Biden, retired General Wesley Clark, Senator Russ Feingold, New Mexico Governor Bill Richardson, Senator Evan Bayh, Virginia Governor Mark Warner, and Iowa Governor Tom Vilsack follow with single digit support. 10% are undecided. Read the full post  Read More →

National Poll: President Bush, Take Two

Voters’ approval of George Bush’s performance as president nudges past fifty percent: One month into his second term, 51% of registered voters nationwide approve of the job President Bush is doing in office, and 45% disapprove. Read the full post  Read More →

National Poll: Campaign 2004 Election Eve Results

Senator John Kerry receives the support of 50% of likely voters nationwide including those leaning towards a candidate and President George Bush receives 49%. Ralph Nader has less than 1%, and 1% are undecided. Without leaners, Kerry has 50% among likely voters compared with 48% for Bush. Kerry and Bush each have the support of 48% of registered voters. Read the full post  Read More →

National Poll: Campaign 2004 Sunday Night Results

President George Bush and Senator John Kerry remain neck and neck in a nationwide poll conducted Sunday night. Bush and Kerry each receive the support of 48% of registered voters. Ralph Nader has less than 1%, and 4% are undecided. Among those likely to vote, Bush has the support of 48% compared with 49% for Kerry. Nader is at less than 1%, and only 3% are undecided. Read the full post  Read More →

National Poll: Voting Counts, but Will All Votes Be Counted?

In the midst of an intensely polarized election and with the memory of the ballot wrangling in Florida still fresh, many Americans think it is likely there will be problems at the polls this Election Day. Although 51% of Americans think a good number of the problems have been corrected, 40% believe most of the problems experienced four years ago have not been fixed, and 9% are unsure if any improvements have been made since election 2000. Democrats and Republicans have very different views on this issue with Independents divided. Read the full post  Read More →

National Poll: Campaign 2004

President George Bush and Senator John Kerry remain neck and neck in a nationwide poll conducted Sunday through Tuesday. Each candidate receives the support of 47% of registered voters. Nader has 1%, and 5% are undecided. Among those likely to vote, Bush has the support of 48% compared with 47% for Kerry. Ralph Nader receives 1%, and only 4% are undecided. Read the full post  Read More →

National Poll: Campaign 2004 and Debate Preview

With Election Day less than one month away, President George Bush and Senator John Kerry are in a close contest nationwide. Among registered voters, Bush receives the support of 47% compared with 46% for Kerry. Nader has 1%, and 6% are undecided. Those likely to vote also divide. Bush has the support of 49% of likely voters nationwide compared with 46% for Kerry. Ralph Nader receives 1%, and only 4% are undecided. Last month Bush had a six point edge over Kerry among likely voters. Read the full post  Read More →

National Poll: The Candidates and the Campaign 2004

Although neither President George Bush nor Senator John Kerry has a clear advantage among registered voters, Bush holds an edge over Kerry among those likely to vote on Election Day. Bush has the support of 47% of registered voters nationwide compared with 45% for Kerry. Ralph Nader receives 3%, and only 5% are undecided. Among likely voters, Bush receives 50% and Kerry receives 44%. Nader has 2% and 4% of likely voters are undecided. Read the full post  Read More →

National Poll: The Candidates and the Campaign 2004

John Kerry and George Bush are still neck and neck nationwide among registered voters. Kerry has the support of 45% of the national electorate compared with 44% for Bush. Ralph Nader receives 3%, and 8% are undecided. In the 17 battleground states, Kerry receives the support of 49% of registered voters and Bush receives 42%. Read the full post  Read More →

National Poll: Summer Conventions 2004

Voters to tune in: Most voters plan on watching at least some of the Democratic and Republican conventions this summer. 65% of the national electorate plans to tune in next week to the Democrats in Boston. 60% of voters plan to watch the Republicans next month. Read the full post  Read More →

National Poll: The Candidates and the Campaign 2004

One week before the start of the Democratic Convention, John Kerry and George Bush are tightly matched nationwide among registered voters. Kerry has the support of 45% of the national electorate compared with 44% for Bush. Ralph Nader receives 2%, and 9% are undecided. In the 17 battleground states, Kerry receives the support of 47% of registered voters and Bush receives 42%. Read the full post  Read More →

Campaign 2004: Hit and Miss

Taking the low road: Many Americans view the 2004 presidential campaign as too negative. 58% say the presidential candidates have spent more time attacking each other rather than speaking about the issues. Only 28% think President Bush and Senator Kerry are focusing more on the issues. Read the full post  Read More →

National Poll: The Candidates and the Agenda

George Bush and John Kerry are closely matched nationwide among registered voters. Bush has the support of 47% of the national electorate compared with 44% for Kerry. 9% are undecided. In the 17 battleground states, Bush receives the support of 44% of registered voters and Kerry receives 47%. Read the full post  Read More →

New Hampshire Democratic Presidential Primary

How the Democratic Field Shapes Up: Former Vermont Governor Howard Dean has a wide lead over his Democratic rivals for the 2004 New Hampshire Democratic Presidential Primary. 44% of likely Democratic primary voters support Dean followed by 23% for Senator John Kerry. The other candidates trail with single digits including retired General Wesley Clark whose support has declined since a similar poll conducted in September. Read the full post  Read More →

President Bush: Ratings and Re-election Prospects

53% of registered voters nationwide approve of the job President Bush is doing in office. This represents a 17% decrease in President Bush’s approval rating since April of this year. Read the full post  Read More →

President Bush: Ratings and Re-election Prospects

Job Performance. 70% of registered voters nationwide approve of the job President Bush is doing in office. This represents a 14% increase in President Bush’s approval rating from pre-war levels. Read the full post  Read More →