Biden Job Approval Steady at 41%; 52% Disapprove

Posted on January 14, 2022 | by Staff Writer

Forty-one percent (41%) of voters nationwide now approve of the way President Biden is performing his job. The latest Scott Rasmussen survey finds that 52% disapprove and 7% are not sure.

The current totals include 18% of voters who Strongly Approve of the president’s performance while 38% Strongly Disapprove.

Since December 8, six consecutive Scott Rasmussen national surveys have found the president’s Job Approval rating at either 41% or 42%.

Sixty-two percent (62%) of those with a college degree approve of the way the president is performing his job. A majority of all other voters disapprove.

Data released earlier showed that 62% of those with a postgraduate degree rate their own finances as good or excellent. A majority of all other voters say their finances are either fair or poor.

Overall, economic confidence has declined rapidly in recent months. That may be one reason that 57% of voters favor making the Trump tax cuts permanent.

Additionally, 55% of voters know of local businesses that are unable to hire as many workers as they need.

Finally, just 13% of voters believe that U.S. trade policy should consider only economic issues. Seventy-five percent (75%) believe national security and human rights issues should also be considered.

SIGN UP to receive Scott’s free email newsletter.

CHECK OUT Scott’s latest polls.

Note: Neither Scott Rasmussen, ScottRasmussen.com, nor RMG Research, Inc. have any affiliation with Rasmussen Reports. While Scott Rasmussen founded that firm, he left nearly a decade ago and has had no involvement since that time.

Question:

Do you approve or disapprove of the way President Biden is performing his job?

18% Strongly approve

23% Somewhat approve

14% Somewhat disapprove

38% Strongly disapprove

6% Not sure

Methodology

The survey of 1,200 Registered Voters was conducted online by Scott Rasmussen on January 6-7, 2022. Field work for the survey was conducted by RMG Research, Inc. Certain quotas were applied, and the sample was lightly weighted by geography, gender, age, race, education, internet usage, and political party to reasonably reflect the nation’s population of Registered Voters. Other variables were reviewed to ensure that the final sample is representative of that population.

The margin of sampling error for the full sample is +/- 2.8 percentage points.

Economic Pessimism Grows: 20% Say Their Finances Are Getting Better While 35% Say Worse

Posted on January 14, 2022 | by Staff Writer

Thirty-seven percent (37%) of voters rate their own personal finances as good or excellent. That’s down twelve points over the past eight months. The latest Scott Rasmussen national survey found that 26% say poor. That figure is up twelve points since last April.

The survey conducted in April 2021 found that 28% believed their own finances were getting better while 21% said worse (net +7). The current numbers show a significantly more negative assessment: 20% now say their finances are getting better while 35% say worse (net -15).

Sixty-two percent (62%) of those with a postgraduate degree rate their own finances as good or excellent. A majority of all other voters say their finances are either fair or poor.

By a 41% to 20%, those with a high level of formal education say their finances are getting better. A solid plurality of all other voters say their finances are getting worse.

SIGN UP to receive Scott’s free email newsletter.

CHECK OUT Scott’s latest polls.

Question 1:

How do you rate the United States economy these days?

6% Excellent

17% Good

37% Fair

36% Poor

4% Not sure

Question 2:

Ok, is the U.S. economy getting better or worse these days?

19% Better

53% Worse

22% About the same

6% Not sure

Question 3:

How do you rate your personal finances these days?

9% Excellent

28% Good

34% Fair

26% Poor

4% Not sure

Question 4:

Are your personal finances getting better or worse these days?

20% Better

35% Worse

40% About the same

5% Not sure

Methodology

The margin of sampling error for the full sample is +/- 2.8 percentage points.

Just 13% See Trade As Only an Economic Issue; 75% Want National Security and Human Rights Issues Considered As Well

Posted on January 13, 2022 | by Staff Writer

In terms of trade with other nations, 13% of voters believe the United States should consider only economic issues. A Scott Rasmussen national survey found that 75% believe national security and human rights issues should also be considered.

A solid majority of every measured demographic group favors consideration of more than economic factors.

If the United States sharply reduced trade with China, 27% believe it would hurt the U.S. more than China while 24% have the opposite view. A plurality (36%) believes both would be equally hurt.

However, 77% of voters consider it at least somewhat likely that reducing trade with China would lead to higher prices and other economic challenges.

SIGN UP to receive Scott’s free email newsletter.

CHECK OUT Scott’s latest polls.

Note: Neither Scott Rasmussen, ScottRasmussen.com, nor RMG Research, Inc. have any affiliation with Rasmussen Reports. While Scott Rasmussen founded that firm, he left more than seven years ago and has had no involvement since that time.

Question 1:

In terms of trade with other nations, should the United States consider only economic issues? Or should they also consider national security and human rights issues?

13% Only economic issues

75% Also include national security and human rights issues

12% Not sure

Question 2:

If the United States sharply reduced trade with China, which country would it hurt more?

27% The United States

24% China

36% Both equally

13% Not sure

Question 3:

Okay… if the United States sharply reduced trade with China, how likely is it that you would experience higher prices and other economic challenges?

39% Very likely

38% Somewhat likely

8% Not very likely

4% Not at all likely

11% Not sure

Methodology

The margin of sampling error for the full sample is +/- 2.8 percentage points.

55% Know of Local Businesses Unable to Hire As Many Workers As They Need

Posted on January 11, 2022 | by Staff Writer

Fifty-five percent (55%) of voters know of local businesses that are unable to hire as many workers as they need. A Scott Rasmussen national survey found that 24% do not know of any such businesses in their area while 20% are not sure.

The survey also found that 59% say businesses in their area are hiring people while just 10% say they are laying people off. Sixteen percent (16%) report that neither is happening in their area and 15% are not sure.

Under normal circumstances, that strong awareness of companies hiring would be a very positive economic indicator. The numbers are more positive than ever before recorded in a Scott Rasmussen survey. However, it is more difficult to interpret those results in light of the fact that a majority of voters know of businesses that can’t find enough workers.

Data released earlier showed that 57% of voters favor making the Trump tax cuts permanent.

SIGN UP to receive Scott’s free email newsletter.

CHECK OUT Scott’s latest polls.

Question 1:

Generally speaking, are businesses in your area hiring people or laying people off?

59% Hiring

10% Laying off

16% Neither

15% Not sure

Question 2:

Do you know of any local businesses that are unable to hire as many workers as they need?

55% Yes

24% No

20% Not sure

Methodology

The survey of 1,000 Registered Voters was conducted online by Scott Rasmussen on January 6-7, 2022. Field work for the survey was conducted by RMG Research, Inc. Certain quotas were applied, and the sample was lightly weighted by geography, gender, age, race, education, internet usage, and political party to reasonably reflect the nation’s population of Registered Voters. Other variables were reviewed to ensure that the final sample is representative of that population.

The margin of sampling error for the full sample is +/- 3.1 percentage points.

Generic Congressional Ballot: GOP 42% Dems 40%

Posted on January 10, 2022 | by Staff Writer

If the midterm elections were held today, 42% of Registered Voters would cast their ballot for a Republican while 40% would vote for a Democrat. The latest Scott Rasmussen national survey found that 8% would vote for some other candidate and 10% are not sure.

These results include “leaners.” They are people who initially express no preference for either party. However, on a follow-up question, they indicate a preference if they had to make a choice right now. Without leaners, the Republican advantage on this latest survey was two percentage points this month and three percentage points in December.

It is important to note that these totals are for Registered Voters and do not account for intensity of support or intention to vote. Generally speaking, Republicans and conservatives show more enthusiasm about the midterms than Democrats and progressives.

Last month, the GOP held a six point advantage on the Generic Ballot.

Looking back a bit further, Democrats never trailed on the Generic Ballot from the beginning of the year through September. Since October, however, it is the Republican Party that has never trailed.

Given a choice between four presidential candidates with equal skills and temperament. 32% would prefer a Republican who supported policies like President Trump; 23% would favor a traditional Democrat; 18% are looking for a Democrat who supported policies similar to Senator Bernie Sanders; and, 15% are ready to support a traditional Republican?

Other recent survey data showed that 84% of voters believe public schools should teach the truth about slavery. At the same time, 81% believe public schools should teach that America was founded on the ideals of freedom, equality, and self-governance.

Fifty-three percent (53%) of voters believe the loss of educational opportunities from shutting down schools is a bigger threat to children than the possibility of getting COVID. A Scott Rasmussen national survey found that 31% disagree and believe COVID is the bigger threat.

When fighting the COVID pandemic, 54% of voters believe the focus should be on balancing health care concerns with social, lifestyle, and economic concerns. Thirty-four percent (34%) disagree and believe it is more important to stop COVID at all costs. Republicans and Independents tend to believe a balanced approach is best. Democrats are evenly divided.

Seventy-one percent (71%) of voters believe parents should play a significant role in the curriculum development process. Twenty-three percent (23%) disagree and 7% are not sure.

Forty-nine percent (49%) believe that parents currently have too little control over the process while 11% believe they have too much control.

SIGN UP to receive Scott’s free email newsletter.

CHECK OUT Scott’s latest polls.

Question 1:

If the election for Congress were held today, would you vote for the Republican from your district, or the Democrat from your district?

42% Republican

40% Democrat

8% Other

10% Not sure

Question 2:

Suppose you had a choice between four presidential candidates. All four had equal skills and temperament. Would you prefer a Republican who supported policies like President Trump, a more traditional Republican, a Democrat who supported policies similar to Senator Bernie Sanders, or a more traditional Democrat?

32% A Republican supporting Trump’s policies

15% A more traditional Republican

18% A Democrat supporting Sanders’ policies

23% A more traditional Democrat

12% Not sure

Methodology

The survey of 1,000 Registered Voters was conducted online by Scott Rasmussen on January 3-4, 2022. Field work for the survey was conducted by RMG Research, Inc. Certain quotas were applied, and the sample was lightly weighted by geography, gender, age, race, education, internet usage, and political party to reasonably reflect the nation’s population of Registered Voters. Other variables were reviewed to ensure that the final sample is representative of that population.

The margin of sampling error for the full sample is +/- 3.1 percentage points.

45% See Assault on US Capitol as Major Threat to Democracy

Posted on January 9, 2022 | by Staff Writer

Question 1:

How closely have you followed recent news stories about the January 2021 assault on the United States Capitol?

24% Very closely

40% Somewhat closely

22% Not very closely

10% Not at all

4% Not sure

Question 2:

Which of the following do you believe constitutes a major threat to democracy in the United States?

45% The January 2021 assault on the United States Capitol

11% Requiring voters to show identification before voting

23% The 2017 shooting of Republican members of Congress at a softball practice

64% Letting government bureaucrats set rules without approval of Congress or voters

SIGN UP to receive Scott’s free email newsletter.

CHECK OUT Scott’s latest polls.

Methodology

The margin of sampling error for the full sample is +/- 3.1 percentage points.

53% Say Loss of Educational Opportunities Bigger Threat to Kids Than COVID; 31% Disagree

Posted on January 9, 2022 | by Staff Writer

Republicans overwhelmingly see the loss of educational opportunities as the bigger threat. Independent voters agree by a 2-to-1 margin.

Democrats, however, disagree. By a 47% to 35% margin, those in President Biden’s party see the possibility of getting COVID as the bigger threat.

The survey also found that 36% believe it should be against the law for unvaccinated Americans to fly on commercial airlines. Forty-five percent (45%) disagree.

There is also a significant divide on this question. Democrats, by a 2-to-1 margin, believe it should be against the law for the unvaccinated to fly. Republicans disagree by an even wider margin (60% to 24%). Among Independents, 30% believe it should be against the law while 49% disagree.

SIGN UP to receive Scott’s free email newsletter.

CHECK OUT Scott’s latest polls.

Question 1:

What is the bigger threat to children: the possibility of getting COVID or the loss of educational opportunities from shutting down schools?

31% Getting COVID

53% Loss of educational opportunities

16% Not sure

Question 2:

Should it be against the law for unvaccinated Americans to fly on commercial airlines?

36% Yes

45% No

19% Not sure

Question 3:

If you tested positive for COVID, how likely is it that you would recover quickly with only minor symptoms?

39% Very likely

35% Somewhat likely

7% Not very likely

5% Not at all likely

14% Not sure

Methodology

The margin of sampling error for the full sample is +/- 3.1 percentage points.

54% Want to Balance COVID Concerns with Social, Lifestyle, and Economic Concerns; 34% Want to Focus on Stopping COVID at All Costs

Posted on January 7, 2022 | by Staff Writer

When fighting the COVID pandemic, 54% of voters believe the focus should be on balancing health care concerns with social, lifestyle, and economic concerns. A Scott Rasmussen national survey found that 34% disagree and believe it is more important to stop COVID at all costs.

Sixty-six percent (66%) of Republicans believe a balanced approach is best. Independent voters, by a 49% to 35% margin, tend to agree. Democrats are evenly divided.

The survey also found that 30% of voters now believe the worst of the pandemic is behind us while 39% believe it is still to come.

SIGN UP to receive Scott’s free email newsletter.

CHECK OUT Scott’s latest polls.

Question 1:

Which of the following best describes your reaction to taking the COVID vaccine?

66% I have already been vaccinated.

3% I want to be vaccinated as soon as possible.

6% I want to wait and see how it works before getting vaccinated.

9% I’m in no particular rush to get vaccinated.

13% I will never get vaccinated.

3% Not sure

Question 2:

Is the worst of the pandemic behind us, or is it still to come?

30% Behind us

39% Still to come

30% Not sure

Question 3:

Is it more important to stop COVID at all costs or to balance health care concerns with social, lifestyle, and economic concerns?

34% Stop COVID at all costs

54% Balance concerns

12% Not sure

Methodology

57% Believe Biden Legitimately Won in 2020; 61% Believe Trump Legitimately Won in 2016; 55% Believe Both Sides Would Steal Election if They Could

Posted on January 6, 2022 | by Staff Writer

Fifty-seven percent (57%) of voters believe that Joe Biden was legitimately elected president in 2020. A Scott Rasmussen national survey found that a similar number –61%–believe Donald Trump was legitimately elected president in 2016. Just 26% of voters believe the proper winner was declared in each of those elections.

Fifty-five percent (55%) of voters believe activists and politicians in both political parties would steal an election if they could get away with it. Thirty-three percent (33%) disagree.

Most Republicans and Independents believe both sides would steal an election if they could. Democrats are evenly divided on the question.

Data released earlier showed that just 13% of voters have a favorable opinion of those who broke into the U.S. Capitol on January 6, 2021. A Scott Rasmussen national survey found that 77% have an unfavorable view.

Among those who prefer policies advocated by former President Trump, just 19% have a favorable opinion of those who broke into the Capitol. Sixty-one percent (61%) offer an unfavorable view.

SIGN UP to receive Scott’s free email newsletter.

CHECK OUT Scott’s latest polls.

Question 1:

Who do you believe was the legitimate winner of the 2016 presidential election—Hillary Clinton or Donald Trump?

24% Hillary Clinton

61% Donald Trump

15% Not sure

Question 2:

Okay… Who do you believe was the legitimate winner of the 2020 presidential election—Joe Biden or Donald Trump?

57% Joe Biden

31% Donald Trump

12% Not sure

Question 3:

Do you agree or disagree with the following statement: “Political activists and candidates in both political parties are willing to steal an election if they can get away with it.”

25% Strongly agree

30% Somewhat agree

17% Somewhat disagree

16% Strongly disagree

12% Not sure

Methodology

84% Believe Students Should Be Taught The Truth About Slavery; 81% Believe They Should Be Taught America Founded on Noble Ideals

Posted on January 5, 2022 | by Staff Writer

Eighty-four percent (84%) of voters believe public schools should teach the truth about slavery. At the same time, a Scott Rasmussen national survey found that 81% believe public schools should teach that America was founded on the ideals of freedom, equality, and self-governance.

Combining the results shows that 72% of voters believe both should be taught.

Another question found that 42% believe the schools should teach that America was founded on racism, slavery, and white supremacy. Forty-four percent (44%) disagree.

Overall, 40% believe students should be taught that America was founded on noble ideals, but not that the nation was founded on racism. Thirty percent (30%) believe both should be taught. Eleven percent (11%) say that the noble ideals should be taught and are not sure about racism. Nine percent (9%) believe schools should teach that the nation was founded on racism but not that it was founded upon noble ideals.

Finally, 64% believe that schools should teach that America is a force for good in the world. Fifteen percent (15%) disagree and 21% are not sure.

Seventy-nine percent (79%) of those who support Trump-like policies believe that students should be taught that America is a force for good. So do 73% of traditional Democrats and 70% of traditional Republicans.

However, among those who support policies like those of Senator Bernie Sanders, just 42% think students should learn that America is a force for good. Thirty percent (30%) of Sanders’ supporters say that positive message should not be taught while 28% are not sure.

Given a choice between four presidential candidates with equal skills and temperament, 31% would prefer a Republican who supported policies like those of President Trump. A Scott Rasmussen national survey found that 20% would prefer a Democrat who supported policies similar to Senator Bernie Sanders, 19% favor a more traditional Democrat, and 17% a more traditional Republican.

SIGN UP to receive Scott’s free email newsletter.

CHECK OUT Scott’s latest polls.

Question 1:

Please indicate whether each of the following should be taught in public schools: The truth about slavery in America

84% Yes

7% No

9% Not sure

Question 2:

Please indicate whether each of the following should be taught in public schools: America was founded on the ideals of freedom, equality, and self-governance

81% Yes

11% No

7% Not sure

Question 3:

Please indicate whether each of the following should be taught in public schools: America was founded on racism, slavery, and white supremacy

42% Yes

44% No

15% Not sure

Question 4:

Please indicate whether each of the following should be taught in public schools: That the United States is a force for good in the world

64% Yes

15% No

21% Not sure

Methodology

The survey of 1,200 Registered Voters was conducted online by Scott Rasmussen on December 16-17, 2021. Field work for the survey was conducted by RMG Research, Inc. Certain quotas were applied, and the sample was lightly weighted by geography, gender, age, race, education, internet usage, and political party to reasonably reflect the nation’s population of Registered Voters. Other variables were reviewed to ensure that the final sample is representative of that population.

54% Say It Should Be Against the Law to Require College Degree for Jobs When Degree is Not Relevant to Job Duties

Posted on January 4, 2022 | by Staff Writer

Fifty-four percent (54%) of voters believe it should be against the law to require a college degree for jobs when the degree is not relevant to job duties. A Scott Rasmussen national survey found that just 29% disagree and 17% are not sure.

These views are shared widely across partisan and demographic lines. However, those with a bachelor’s degree but not a postgraduate degree are less supportive. Among such voters 47% believe requiring a degree should be against the law while 40% disagree.

Fifty-five percent (55%) of those with a postgraduate degree believe it should be against the law. So do 58% of those with some college experience and 54% of those who have never attended college.

SIGN UP to receive Scott’s free email newsletter.

CHECK OUT Scott’s latest polls.

Question:

Many jobs today require a college degree to be considered, even when the degree is not relevant to the job duties. Should it be against the law to require a college degree for jobs when the degree is not relevant to job duties?

54% Yes

29% No

17% Not sure

Methodology

The survey of 1,200 Registered Voters was conducted online by Scott Rasmussen on December 8-10, 2021. Field work for the survey was conducted by RMG Research, Inc. Certain quotas were applied, and the sample was lightly weighted by geography, gender, age, race, education, internet usage, and political party to reasonably reflect the nation’s population of Registered Voters. Other variables were reviewed to ensure that the final sample is representative of that population.

71% Believe Parents Should Play Significant Role in Curriculum Development Process

Posted on January 1, 2022 | by Staff Writer

Seventy-one percent (71%) of voters believe parents should play a significant role in the curriculum development process. A Scott Rasmussen national survey found that 23% disagree and 7% are not sure.

Forty-nine percent (49%) believe that parents currently have too little control over the process while 11% believe they have too much control.

Sixty-three percent (63%) of Republicans believe parents have too little control. So do 52% of Independent voters.

As on many issues, there is a significant divide between white and black Democrats. Fifty-four percent (54%) of Black Democrats believe parents have too little control. Just 6% say they have too much control. White Democrats, however, are evenly divided. Just 26% believe parents have too little control while 21% say they have too much of an impact.

Among all voters, 85% believe parents should be allowed to see all curriculum, books, and other materials in classes their children are taking. Just 8% disagree.

Overall, 52% of voters rate public schools in their area as good or excellent. However, just 38% of Black voters offer such a positive assessment.

Over the past year, there have been many reports of protests and conflict between parents and school boards. A Scott Rasmussen national survey found that 42% of voters generally side with the parents while 28% side with the school boards. Republicans tend to side with the parents by a 59% to 16% margin. Democrats take the opposite view and side with the school boards by a 45% to 26% margin. Among Independents, 39% side with the parents and 21% with the school boards.

SIGN UP to receive Scott’s free email newsletter.

CHECK OUT Scott’s latest polls.

Question 1:

Should parents be allowed to see all curriculum, books, and other materials in classes their children are taking?

85% Yes

8% No

7% Not sure

Question 2:

Generally speaking, do parents have too much control over what students are taught in school, too little control, or about the right amount of control?

11% Too much

49% Too little

25% About right

14% Not sure

Question 3:

Okay, how significant a role should parents play in the curriculum development process?

30% Very significant

41% Somewhat significant

17% Not very significant

6% Not at all significant

7% Not sure

Methodology

52% Rate Public Schools Good or Excellent; Just 38% of Black Voters Offer Such Positive Reviews

Posted on January 1, 2022 | by Staff Writer

Fifty-two percent (52%) of voters rate the public schools in their area as good or excellent. A Scott Rasmussen national survey found that 28% rate those schools as fair and 13% say poor.

Fifty-seven percent (57%) of White voters rate their schools as good or excellent. That view is shared by 47% of Hispanic voters and just 32% of Black voters.

SIGN UP to receive Scott’s free email newsletter.

CHECK OUT Scott’s latest polls.

Question:

On a different topic, how do you rate the public schools in your area?

12% Excellent

40% Good

28% Fair

13% Poor

6% Not sure

Methodology

46% Believe Worst of Pandemic Is Still to Come; Voters Divided As To What They Fear More– Getting COVID Or More Government Restrictions

Posted on December 30, 2021 | by Staff Writer

As 2021 draws to a close, just 27% of voters now believe that the worst of the pandemic is behind us. That’s down two points from a week ago, down seventeen since early November. and down 29 from the peak level of optimism measured in May.

A Scott Rasmussen national survey found that 46% now believe the worst is yet to come. This is the second highest level of pessimism recorded since the vaccines became available.

Despite the pessimism, just 28% of voters want to see stricter lockdowns imposed at this time. Thirty-four percent (34%) want to see restrictions eased in their area while 28% don’t think any changes are needed.

Another indication of declining public concern is that 74% of voters are close to resuming their normal life. In fact, 47% are more worried about governments imposing unnecessary restrictions and lockdowns than they are about getting COVID. A slightly smaller number of voters–43%– are more worried about getting COVID.

Fifty-six percent (56%) of who have been vaccinated are more worried about getting COVID. Thirty-eight percent (38%) of the vaccinated are more worried about government restrictions and lockdowns. Those who are not vaccinated have an entirely different set of concerns. By a 66% to 21% margin, the unvaccinated are more worried about government restrictions than getting COVID.

Additionally, 59% believe the reluctance of some vaccinated voters to re-engage in social activities is hurting the economy. That total includes 61% of those who have already been vaccinated.

Data released earlier showed that 49% of voters believe relaxing vaccine mandates, mask requirements, and social distancing guidelines would be good for the economy. Thirty percent (30%) disagree.

Fifty-three percent (53%) of voters are comfortable going mask-less to a restaurant, bar, or other social setting with a large number of people. That includes 48% of the vaccinated and 64% of the unvaccinated.

Perceptions about the pandemic have varied over time. When the lockdowns first began, a majority of voters believed the pandemic would end by Memorial Day 2020.

In 2021, optimism rose as soon as the vaccines became available. By May, 56% believed the worst was behind us. However, confidence fell over the summer with the arrival of the Delta variant. By July, just 28% still believed the worst had already come and gone. Confidence began to grow again in early October before falling again in November.

Voters are clearly frustrated with both the pandemic itself and the government response to it.

Looking back, 58% of voters believe that shutting down businesses and locking down society did more harm than good.
Forty-eight percent (48%) think scientists would falsi fy their data to support their personal views of what should be done.
Fifty-nine percent (59%) favor relaxing vaccine mandates to ease supply chain issues. Additionally, 61% favor relaxing vaccine mandates for police officers, fire fighters, and health care workers.

SIGN UP to receive Scott’s free email newsletter.

CHECK OUT Scott’s latest polls.

Question 1:

Which of the following best describes your reaction to taking the COVID vaccine?

62% I have already been vaccinated.

4% I want to be vaccinated as soon as possible.

6% I want to wait and see how it works before getting vaccinated.

9% I’m in no particular rush to get vaccinated.

15% I will never get vaccinated.

4% Not sure

Question 2:

Is the worst of the pandemic behind us, or is it still to come?

27% Behind us

46% Still to come

27% Not sure

Methodology

The survey of 1,200 Registered Voters was conducted online by Scott Rasmussen on December 21-22, 2021. Field work for the survey was conducted by RMG Research, Inc. Certain quotas were applied, and the sample was lightly weighted by geography, gender, age, race, education, internet usage, and political party to reasonably reflect the nation’s population of Registered Voters. Other variables were reviewed to ensure that the final sample is representative of that population.

Just 57% of Voters Know That The Political “Right” Refers to Conservatives

Posted on December 30, 2021 | by Staff Writer

Just 57% of voters know that the political right refers to conservatives. A Scott Rasmussen national survey found that 15% mistakenly believe it refers to liberals and 28% are not sure.

This highlights the disconnect frequently found between the language of the political elite and the language of everyday Americans. If a politician speaks of the “political right,” just over half of the nation’s voters understand the reference. It’s also likely that some (perhaps many) of the 57% who answered correctly are less than certain of the answer.

When it comes to knowing the meaning of the political right, Republicans are more aware than Democrats or Independents. White and Hispanic voters are more likely than black voters to answer correctly.

In many ways, to paraphrase George Bernard Shaw, the political elite and the rest of America are two nations separated by a common language. For pollsters, this creates a challenge. If you ask a question in the language of the political elite, it may be interpreted much differently by the survey respondents. The real danger, however, comes when the political elites fail to recognize this barrier.

For example, to the political elite, socialism is a term loosely reflecting the views of politicians like Senator Bernie Sanders or Representative Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez. However, few voters see it that way. Among those who say they like socialism, only a third believes it means a more powerful role for government and higher taxes.

Additionally, nearly half the nation’s voters don’t know what would happen if Roe v. Wade is overturned. That makes it difficult to place any value on polls showing support or opposition to that court ruling.

SIGN UP to receive Scott’s free email newsletter.

CHECK OUT Scott’s latest polls.

Question:

In political dialogue, people sometimes refer to political activists as being on the Left or the Right. If somebody is a political conservative, are they on the Left or the Right?

15% Left

57% Right

28% Not sure

Methodology

The survey of 1,200 Registered Voters was conducted online by Scott Rasmussen on December 6-8, 2021. Field work for the survey was conducted by RMG Research, Inc. Certain quotas were applied, and the sample was lightly weighted by geography, gender, age, race, education, internet usage, and political party to reasonably reflect the nation’s population of Registered Voters. Other variables were reviewed to ensure that the final sample is representative of that population.

65% Say U.S. More Divided and Polarized Than Ever Before

Posted on December 30, 2021 | by Staff Writer

Sixty five percent (65%) of voters believe the United States is more divided and polarized today than at any previous time in history. A Scott Rasmussen national survey found that 18% disagree and 17% are not sure.

That is quite a staggering perception given the violence and unrest of the 1960s and the Civil War in the 1860s. It may be partially attributable to social media platforms that make just about all Americans aware that others vehemently disagree with their world view.

Additionally, the federal government plays a much larger role in the lives of everyday Americans than ever before. A system that requires one-size-fits-all rules applied in every corner of the nation is more likely to highlight differences than a system allowing state and local governments to offer alternatives.

Finally, of course, any question comparing our time to previous generations is subject to the tyranny of now. All generations tend to see their time on earth as uniquely challenging. On top of that, the passions of today’s disagreements seem far more vivid than those we read about in history books.

SIGN UP to receive Scott’s free email newsletter.

CHECK OUT Scott’s latest polls.

Question:

Is the United States today more divided and polarized than at any previous time in history?

65% Yes

18% No

17% Not sure

Methodology

On School Boards Conflicts, 42% Generally Side With Parents, 28% With School Board

Posted on December 29, 2021 | by Staff Writer

Republicans tend to side with the parents by a 59% to 16% margin. Democrats take the opposite view and side with the school boards by a 45% to 26% margin. Among Independents, 39% side with the parents and 21% with the school boards.

Sometimes, of course, parents strongly disagree with what their children are being taught in a particular public school. If that happens, 58% believe the parents should be allowed–at no cost to the family–to have their child attend another school with different teaching. Just 22% disagree.

Sixty-seven percent (67%) believe school districts should be required to have a significant number of parents on their school boards.

SIGN UP to receive Scott’s free email newsletter.

CHECK OUT Scott’s latest polls.

Question 1:

Suppose that parents strongly disagree with what their children are being taught in a particular public school. Should the parents be allowed–at no cost to the family–to have their child attend another school with different teaching?

58% Yes

22% No

20% Not sure

Question 2:

Over the past year, there have been many reports of protests and conflict between parents and school boards. Generally speaking, when hearing about these conflicts, do you tend to side with the parents or the school boards?

42% Parents

28% School Board

30% Not sure

Question 3:

Should school districts be required to have a significant number of parents on their school boards?

67% Yes

17% No

16% Not sure

Methodology

62% Oppose Non-Citizens Voting in Local Elections; 27% Favor the Idea

Posted on December 21, 2021 | by Staff Writer

New York City recently voted to allow approximately 800,000 non-citizens to vote in municipal elections. A Scott Rasmussen national survey found that just 27% favor allowing non-citizens to vote in local elections. Sixty-two percent (62%) are opposed.

Those totals include 10% who Strongly Favor the idea and 47% who are Strongly Opposed.

Republicans oppose the idea by an 84% to 12% margins. Independents are opposed by a 53% to 23% margin. Democrats are evenly divided.

White voters oppose the idea by a 68% to 22% margin. Black and Hispanic voters are evenly divided.

The survey also found that 56% would favor a new national law preventing non-citizens from voting in any local, state, or federal elections. Thirty-one percent (31%) are opposed to such a law.

SIGN UP to receive Scott’s free email newsletter.

CHECK OUT Scott’s latest polls.

Question 1:

New York City recently voted to allow approximately 800,000 non-citizens to vote in municipal elections. Do you favor or oppose allowing non-citizens to vote in local elections?

10% Strongly favor

17% Somewhat favor

15% Somewhat oppose

47% Strongly oppose

11% Not sure

Question 2:

Would you favor or oppose a new national law preventing non-citizens from voting in any local, state, or federal elections?

41% Strongly favor

15% Somewhat favor

15% Somewhat oppose

16% Strongly oppose

12% Not sure

Methodology

Generic Ballot: Republicans 44% Democrats 38%

Posted on December 17, 2021 | by Staff Writer

Republicans have opened a six point lead on the Generic Congressional Ballot. The latest Scott Rasmussen national survey found that 44% of Registered Voters would currently vote for the Republican from their district while 38% would vote for the Democrat. Nine percent (9%) would not vote and 10% are not sure.

This is the first Scott Rasmussen survey of the 2022 cycle to include “leaners.” Those are people who initially express no preference for either party. However, on a follow-up question, they indicate a preference if they had to make a choice right now.

Without leaners, the Republican advantage on this latest survey was three percentage points (38% to 35). That’s unchanged from late November, but up two since late October.

The trend throughout 2022 has clearly favored the GOP. In Scott Rasmussen’s April survey, Democrats enjoyed a four-point advantage. However, President Biden’s party has not led since September.

This trend is consistent with the ongoing series of party affiliation data tracked by Gallup. In April, Democrats had a five-point advantage. The latest numbers, from November, show a nine-point swing in favor of the GOP. Currently, 31% of adults identify with the Republicans while 27% consider themselves Democrats.

The decline in support for Democrats likely has many causes. In terms of legislation, the president’s Build Back Better plan is weighed down by a large number of extraordinarily unpopular provisions. Additionally, Democrats are seen as a bigger threat to democracy than Republicans. In their push for election reform, Democrats have sought legislation to outlaw three election reforms that are supported by more than 80 percent of voters.

Beyond specific legislation, there are many broader concerns. Most voters recognize that, compared to pre-pandemic numbers, there are far fewer Americans with a job these days. Politically, this is a very challenging issue for Democrats. Two-thirds of voters say economic issues are more important than cultural issues. Yet only 37% believe that Democratic politicians and activists are primarily interested in economic issues.

SIGN UP to receive Scott’s free email newsletter.

CHECK OUT Scott’s latest polls.

Question:

If the election for Congress were held today, would you vote for the Republican from your district, or the Democrat from your district? [If “Other”/”Not sure”] Okay, if you had to make a choice right now, would you be more likely to vote for the Republican or the Democrat from your district?

44% Republican

38% Democrat

9% Would not vote

10% Not sure

Methodology

47% Believe Dr. Fauci Makes Recommendations Based On Scientific Data and Research

Posted on December 15, 2021 | by Staff Writer

Forty-seven percent (47%) of voters believe Dr. Anthony Fauci makes his recommendations primarily on scientific data and research. A Scott Rasmussen national survey found that 33% disagree and think his recommendations are based upon his own personal and political views. Twenty percent (20%) are not sure.

Seventy-three percent (73%) of traditional Democrats believe Fauci acts primarily upon data and research. So do 71% of Sanders’ Democrats. Among traditional Republicans, that figure falls to 47%.

However, among those who prefer the policies of former President Trump, 58% think Fauci’s recommendations are based primarily on his own personal and political views. Just 24% of these populist Republicans believe he acts upon scientific data.

In terms of encouraging more people to get vaccinated, data released earlier suggested that Dr. Fauci is not an effective messenger. Just 15% of unvaccinated voters believe he makes his policy recommendations based primarily on scientific data and research.

Overall, 50% of voters currently have a favorable opinion of Dr. Fauci. That’s little changed from earlier surveys.

SIGN UP to receive Scott’s free email newsletter.

CHECK OUT Scott’s latest polls.

Question 1:

Do you have a favorable or an unfavorable opinion of Dr. Anthony Fauci?

30% Very favorable

20% Somewhat favorable

13% Somewhat unfavorable

19% Very unfavorable

17% Not sure

Question 2:

Does Dr. Fauci make his recommendations primarily on scientific data and research or upon his own personal and political views?

47% Scientific data

33% Personal views

20% Not sure

Methodology

The survey of 1,200 Registered Voters was conducted online by Scott Rasmussen on December 1-3, 2021. Field work for the survey was conducted by RMG Research, Inc. Certain quotas were applied, and the sample was lightly weighted by geography, gender, age, race, education, internet usage, and political party to reasonably reflect the nation’s population of Registered Voters. Other variables were reviewed to ensure that the final sample is representative of that population.

Individual Freedom Tops List of Issues Before Supreme Court Followed By Gun Laws, Religious Liberty, Limiting the Power of Government, and Abortion

Posted on December 10, 2021 | by Staff Writer

Sixty-eight percent (68%) of voters say that individual freedom is Very Important in terms of how they vote. That’s the highest rating among seven broad issues being considered by the Supreme Court. A Scott Rasmussen national survey found that 63% rated gun laws as Very Important, 58% who say Religious Liberty is Very Important and 55% say the same about limiting the power of government. Abortion is seen as Very Important by 49%, Death Penalty Issues by 41%, and Transgender Rights by 31%.

For Republicans, the top three issues are Individual Freedom, Limiting the Power of Government and Religious Liberty.

For Democrats, the top three are Gun Laws, Individual Freedom, and Religious Liberty.

For Independents, the top issues are Individual Freedom, Gun Laws, and Religious Liberty.

SIGN UP to receive Scott’s free email newsletter.

CHECK OUT Scott’s latest polls.

Question:

In terms of how you will vote, how important are each of the following issues?

Abortion

49% Very important

26% Somewhat important

12% Not very important

6% Not at all important

7% Not sure

Gun laws

63% Very important

22% Somewhat important

6% Not very important

4% Not at all important

4% Not sure

Limiting the power of government

55% Very important

27% Somewhat important

9% Not very important

3% Not at all important

6% Not sure

Transgender rights

31% Very important

23% Somewhat important

17% Not very important

20% Not at all important

7% Not sure

Individual rights

68% Very important

19% Somewhat important

5% Not very important

2% Not at all important

6% Not sure

Religious liberty

58% Very important

24% Somewhat important

8% Not very important

5% Not at all important

5% Not sure

Death penalty

41% Very important

32% Somewhat important

13% Not very important

6% Not at all important

8% Not sure

Methodology

70% Believe Drug Cartels Operating at Southern Border Should Be Designated As Terrorist Group

Posted on December 10, 2021 | by Staff Writer

Seventy percent (70%) of voters believe the drug cartels operating at the southern border should be designated as a terrorist group. A Scott Rasmussen national survey found that 14% disagree and 16% are not sure.

The survey also found that 64% believe the situation at the border is a crisis. That’s little changed from two months ago. While most voters see it as a crisis, just 34% believe the federal government is seriously trying to secure the border and reduce illegal immigration.

Overall, 71% of voters believe legal immigration is good for the United States. Just 15% disagree. At the same time, 73% believe illegal immigration is bad for the nation. On that point, just 13% disagree.

SIGN UP to receive Scott’s free email newsletter.

CHECK OUT Scott’s latest polls.

Question 1:

On a different topic, which of the following best describes your views on immigration?

15% Both legal and illegal immigration are bad for the United States.

58% Legal immigration is good for the United States, but illegal immigration is bad.

13% Both legal and illegal immigration are good for the United States.

13% Not sure

Question 2:

Is the federal government today seriously trying to secure the border and reduce illegal immigration?

34% Yes

43% No

22% Not sure

Question 3:

Do you consider the situation at the southern border to be a crisis?

64% Yes

23% No

13% Not sure

Question 4:

Should the drug cartels that operate at the southern border be designated a terrorist group?

70% Yes

14% No

16% Not sure

Methodology

53% See Biden Agenda as Big Government Socialism; 23% Disagree

Posted on December 9, 2021 | by Staff Writer

Fifty-three percent (53%) of voters believe it is accurate to describe the agenda of the Biden administration as big government socialism. A Scott Rasmussen national survey found that 23% of voters disagree and 24% are not sure.

Seventy-nine percent (79%) of Republicans believe it’s accurate to describe the agenda as big government socialism. So do a plurality of Democrats (46%) and Independents (42%).

Fifty-two percent (52%) of Hispanic voters see the Biden agenda as big government socialism. That may be one reason many Hispanic voters are shifting their loyalties away from the Democratic party.

SIGN UP to receive Scott’s free email newsletter.

CHECK OUT Scott’s latest polls.

Question:

Is it accurate to describe the agenda of the Biden administration as big government socialism?

53% Yes

23% No

24% Not sure

Methodology

55% Believe Tax Hikes Lead to Job Losses

Posted on December 9, 2021 | by Staff Writer

Fifty-five percent (55%) of voters believe tax hikes on businesses and individuals generally lead to job losses. A Scott Rasmussen national survey found that 20% disagree and 25% are not sure.

Seventy-one percent (71%) of Republicans see a connection between higher taxes and job losses. So do 49% of Democrats and 49% of Independent voters.

More broadly, just 21% of all voters believe tax hikes are generally good for the economy. Fifty-one percent (51%) see them as bad.

On this, however, there is a significant partisan divide. Democrats, by a 45% to 32% margin, see tax hikes as good for the economy. Republicans reject that view by a 72% to 12% margin. Among Independents, 50% see tax hikes as bad for the economy while 13% see them as good.

Sixty-five percent (65%) of all voters are opposed to tax hikes that lead to job losses.

SIGN UP to receive Scott’s free email newsletter.

CHECK OUT Scott’s latest polls.

Question 1:

Generally speaking, are higher taxes good for the economy or bad for the economy?

21% Good for the economy

51% Bad for the economy

10% No impact

17% Not sure

Question 2:

Okay, do tax hikes on businesses and individuals generally lead to job losses?

55% Yes

20% No

25% Not sure

Question 3:

If you knew that tax hikes on business and individuals led to job losses, would you support them?

21% Yes

65% No

14% Not sure

Methodology

65% More Interested In Economic Issues More Than Cultural Issues.

Posted on December 9, 2021 | by Staff Writer

Sixty-five percent (65%) of voters are more interested in economic issues than cultural issues. A Scott Rasmussen national survey found that 19% take the opposite view and 16% are not sure.

Most voters (55%) also believe that Republican politicians and activists are more interested in economic issues. Only 21% believe the GOP has more interest in cultural issues.

However, when it comes to Democratic politicians and activists, voters are evenly divided. Thirty-eight percent (38%) believe those in President Biden’s party are more interested in cultural issues. Thirty-seven percent (37%) think economic issues are the top priority for Democrats.

Independent voters, by a 38% to 29% margin, tend to see Democrats as more interested in cultural issues. These unaffiliated voters see Republicans as primarily interested in economic issues by a 47% to 17% margin.

SIGN UP to receive Scott’s free email newsletter.

CHECK OUT Scott’s latest polls.

Question 1:

Are Democratic politicians and activists more interested in economic issues or cultural issues?

37% Economic issues

38% Cultural issues

25% Not sure

Question 2:

Okay, are Republican politicians and activists more interested in economic issues or cultural issues?

55% Economic issues

21% Cultural issues

25% Not sure

Question 3:

What about you? Generally speaking, are you more interested in economic issues or cultural issues?

65% Economic issues

19% Cultural issues

16% Not sure

Methodology

66% Worried That Elected Officials Want to Keep Pandemic Powers Over Individual Americans

Posted on December 8, 2021 | by Staff Writer

During the pandemic, government officials exercised extraordinary power over the lives of individual Americans. A Scott Rasmussen national survey found that 66% of voters are worried that many government officials will try to continue exercising such power over individual Americans.

That number is up slightly from 62% in June.

Twenty-five percent (25%) of voters are not worried and 8% are not sure.

The current totals include 35% who are Very Worried and 9% who are Not at All Worried.

Eighty-five percent (85%) of Republicans are worried about elected officials clinging to pandemic power. So are 60% of Independents and 57% of Democrats.

These results are generally consistent with earlier data showing that 65% of voters believe the federal government is actively working to get more power and control over the lives of everyday Americans.

SIGN UP to receive Scott’s free email newsletter.

CHECK OUT Scott’s latest polls.

Question:

During the pandemic, government officials exercised extraordinary power over the lives of individual Americans. How worried are you that many government officials will try to continue exercising such power over individual Americans?

35% Very worried

31% Somewhat worried

16% Not very worried

9% Not at all worried

8% Not sure

Methodology

Pandemic Pessimism Growing Once Again: Just 32% Say Worst is Behind Us and 40% Fear it Is Still to Come

Posted on December 8, 2021 | by Staff Writer

The latest numbers on the pandemic show that 32% now believe the worst is behind us. That’s down eight points from a week ago and 14 points from a month ago.

A Scott Rasmussen national survey found that 40% now believe the worst is yet to come. These numbers reflect rising pessimism. It’s the first time in two months that more voters expressed the negative view rather than the positive option.

Just 27% of women believe the worst is behind us while 43% believe the worst is still to come. Men are evenly divided.

Perceptions about the pandemic have varied over time. When the lockdowns first began, a majority of voters believed the pandemic would end by Memorial Day 2020.

In 2021, optimism rose when the vaccines became available. By May, 56% believed the worst was behind us. However, confidence fell over the summer with the arrival of the Delta variant. By July, 28% still believed the worst had already come and gone. Confidence began to grow again in early October before falling again in November.

Data released earlier showed that 49% of voters believe relaxing vaccine mandates, mask requirements, and social distancing guidelines would be good for the economy. A Scott Rasmussen national survey found that 30% disagree.

Other data shows that 59% of voters favor relaxing vaccine mandates to ease supply chain issues. Additionally, 61% favor relaxing vaccine mandates for police officers, fire fighters, and health care workers.

These findings, along with other data, provide a sense that support for the mandates is soft. Forty-eight percent (48%) of voters now say they favor the mandates. That’s down six points over the past two months.

SIGN UP to receive Scott’s free email newsletter.

CHECK OUT Scott’s latest polls.

Question 1:

Which of the following best describes your reaction to taking the COVID vaccine?

67% I have already been vaccinated.

6% I want to be vaccinated as soon as possible.

6% I want to wait and see how it works before getting vaccinated.

7% I’m in no particular rush to get vaccinated.

13% I will never get vaccinated.

2% Not sure

Question 2

Is the worst of the pandemic behind us, or is it still to come?

32% Behind us

40% Still to come

28% Not sure

Methodology

58% Believe Lockdowns Did More Harm Than Good

Posted on December 7, 2021 | by Staff Writer

Looking back, 58% of voters believe that shutting down businesses and locking down society did more harm than good. A Scott Rasmussen national survey found that 35% disagree and 17% are not sure.

Belief that the lockdowns did more harm than good is up a point since August and up three points from July. In May, 2020, a majority of voters took the opposite view.

The current totals include 35% who Strongly Agree that the lockdowns did more harm than good and 15% who Strongly Disagree.

The survey also found that 48% believe many states and cities overreact to the coronavirus pandemic in ways that did more harm than good. On that point, 39% disagree.

Just 48% believe the CDC has generally provided reliable and fact-based guidelines during the pandemic. Thirty-two percent (32%) think it has generally acted in a partisan political manner and 20% are not sure.

SIGN UP to receive Scott’s free email newsletter.

CHECK OUT Scott’s latest polls.

Question 1:

Looking back, did many states and cities overreact to the coronavirus pandemic in ways that did more harm than good?

48% Yes

39% No

13% Not sure

Question 2:

How closely do you follow news about the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) guidelines for behavior during the pandemic?

30% Very closely

40% Somewhat closely

19% Not very closely

8% Not at all

3% Not sure

Question 3:

During the pandemic, has the CDC generally provided reliable and fact-based guidelines, or has it generally acted in a partisan political manner?

48% Fact-based guidelines

32% Partisan political manner

20% Not sure

Question 4:

Looking back over the past year or so, would you agree or disagree with this statement: “Despite good intentions, shutting down businesses and locking down society did more harm than good.”

35% Strongly agree

23% Somewhat agree

20% Somewhat disagree

15% Strongly disagree

7% Not sure

Methodology

59% Believe Blocking Keystone Pipeline Has Led to Higher Gas Prices

Posted on December 6, 2021 | by Staff Writer

Fifty-nine percent (59%) of voters believe that the Biden administration’s blocking of the Keystone pipeline project and another midwestern pipeline have caused gas prices. A Scott Rasmussen national survey found that 19% disagree and 23% are not sure.

Seventy-seven percent (77%) of Republicans believe Biden’s policies have contributed to rising gas prices. That view is shared by 54% of Independents and 48% of Democrats.

Data released earlier showed that 40% of voters believe that rising gas prices are a bigger problem than climate change. Just 29% take the opposite view and see climate change as the bigger problem.

SIGN UP to receive Scott’s free email newsletter.

CHECK OUT Scott’s latest polls.

Question 1:

The Biden administration has blocked the Keystone pipeline project and another midwestern pipeline. Have these actions caused gas prices to rise?

59% Yes

19% No

23% Not sure

Question 2:

While seeking to limit U.S. oil production, the Biden administration is encouraging Russia and Arab nations to pump more oil. Do you favor or oppose this policy?

14% Strongly favor

17% Somewhat favor

19% Somewhat oppose

27% Strongly oppose

22% Not sure

Methodology

The survey of 1,200 Registered Voters was conducted online by Scott Rasmussen on November 29-30, 2021. Field work for the survey was conducted by RMG Research, Inc. Certain quotas were applied, and the sample was lightly weighted by geography, gender, age, race, education, internet usage, and political party to reasonably reflect the nation’s population of Registered Voters. Other variables were reviewed to ensure that the final sample is representative of that population.

25% Support Build Back Better Tax Break for Trial Lawyers; 56% Oppose

Posted on December 6, 2021 | by Staff Writer

The Build Back Better legislation passed by the House of Representatives includes a special $2.5 billion tax break for trial lawyers. A Scott Rasmussen national survey found that 25% favor this tax break while 56% are opposed.

Seventy-two percent (72%) of Republicans oppose the tax break. Independents are opposed by a 58% to 18% margin. A modest plurality (46%) of Democrats, however, like the idea of a special tax break for trial lawyers.

The Build Back Better plan–called the Big Government Socialism Bill by Republicans– is struggling in the Senate. One reason is that the legislation has a number of extraordinarily unpopular provisions.

Sixty-percent (60%) oppose the Build Back Better payments to illegal immigrants. Just 28% support those payments.
Seventy-three percent (73%) oppose the president’s plan giving the IRS more access to personal and business financial information. That’s partly because 72% think the IRS already collects too much personal information. Voters strongly believe the agency will use new information to target political enemies and the middle class.
The plan includes a tax credit of up to $50,000 for print journalists. Only 19% like that idea.
If someone is physically able to work, 78% of voters believe they should be required to seek a job in order to receive financial support from the government. The Biden plan weakens existing work requirements and does not include such requirements for new benefits.
The plan encourages a rapid transition to electric vehicles. However, just 26% of voters support that goal. Sixty-six percent (66%) believe the transition should wait at least until the needed batteries can be manufactured in the U.S. rather than relying upon China.
The Build Back Better plan expands eligibility for federal benefits at a time when 55% of voters believe too many are already receiving benefits rather than working.
Most voters (53%) believe it is more important protect the existing Medicare program rather than expanding it by adding new benefits. Just 34% disagree.
There are a number of other unpopular provisions including requirements to increase the cost of daycare, reduce the ability of faith-based organizations to provide daycare services, providing federal funding for abortions, and more.

SIGN UP to receive Scott’s free email newsletter.

CHECK OUT Scott’s latest polls.

Question:

A proposal has been made that would give a special $2.5 billion tax break for trial lawyers. Do you favor or oppose this proposal?

11% Strongly favor

14% Somewhat favor

21% Somewhat oppose

35% Strongly oppose

19% Not sure

Methodology

65% Believe Big Government and Big Business Act Together in Ways that Hurt Everyday Americans

Posted on December 6, 2021 | by Staff Writer

Sixty-five percent (65%) of voters believe that big government and big business act together in ways that hurt everyday Americans. A Scott Rasmussen national survey found that 15% disagree and 20% are not sure.

Among voters who prefer Trump-like policies, 74% see big government and big business acting together in ways that harm everyday Americans. That view is shared by 67% of Sanders’ Democrats, 62% of Traditional Democrats, and 59% of Traditional Republicans.

Sixty-nine percent (69%) of all voters also believe that big government and big business act together in ways that hurt small businesses. Just 12% disagree and 19% are not sure.

SIGN UP to receive Scott’s free email newsletter.

CHECK OUT Scott’s latest polls.

Question 1:

Generally speaking, do big government and big business act together in ways that hurt everyday Americans?

65% Yes

15% No

20% Not sure

Question 2:

Do big government and big business act together in ways that hurt small businesses?

69% Yes

12% No

19% Not sure

Methodology

40% Say Higher Gas Prices Bigger Problem Than Climate Change; 29% Take Opposite View

Posted on December 6, 2021 | by Staff Writer

Forty percent (40%) of voters believe that rising gas prices are a bigger problem than climate change. A Scott Rasmussen national survey found that 29% take the opposite view and see climate change as the bigger problem. Twenty-eight percent (28%) are equally concerned about both and 3% are not sure.

Most Republicans (60%) see rising gas prices as the bigger problem. A plurality of Democrats (44%) are more worried about climate change. Among Independent voters, 37% cite rising gas prices as their top concern while 27% say climate change.

The survey also found that 33% believe inflation is a bigger problem than COVID while 26% say COVID is a bigger problem. A plurality of voters (36%) see them as equally important.

SIGN UP to receive Scott’s free email newsletter.

CHECK OUT Scott’s latest polls.

Question 1:

Which is the bigger problem facing America today: COVID or inflation?

26% COVID

33% Inflation

36% Both equal

5% Not sure

Question 2:

Okay, which of the following is a bigger problem: rising gas prices or climate change?

40% Rising gas prices

29% Climate change

28% Both equal

3% Not sure

Methodology

40% Believe It Should Be Against the Law to Require a College Degree for Jobs

Posted on December 1, 2021 | by Staff Writer

Forty percent (40%) of voters believe it should be against the law to require a college degree for jobs. A Scott Rasmussen national survey found that 43% disagree and 17% are not sure.

Most Democrats believe it should be against the law. A plurality of Republicans and Independents disagree.

SIGN UP to receive Scott’s free email newsletter.

CHECK OUT Scott’s latest polls.

Question:

On a different topic, many jobs today require a college degree to be considered. Should it be against the law to require a college degree for jobs?

40% Yes

43% No

17% Not sure

Methodology

30% Favor Federal Funding for Abortions; 49% Are Opposed

Posted on December 1, 2021 | by Staff Writer

Under current law, no federal funding may be used to pay for abortions. Thirty percent (30%) of voters believe the law should be changed so that abortions can be paid for by the federal government. A Scott Rasmussen national survey found that 49% disagree and 21% are not sure.

A plurality of Democrats (47%) favor federal funding of abortions. Most Republicans (66%) are opposed. Among Independent voters, 25% favor changing the law and 48% favor continuing to ban the use of federal funding for abortions.

Fifty-two percent (52%) of women favor the ban on using federal funds for abortion. So do 46% of men.

SIGN UP to receive Scott’s free email newsletter.

CHECK OUT Scott’s latest polls.

Question:

Under current law, no federal funding may be used to pay for abortions. Should the law be changed so that abortions can be paid for by the federal government?

30% Yes

49% No

21% Not sure

Methodology

44% Believe Women Should Be Eligible for the Military Draft

Posted on December 1, 2021 | by Staff Writer

Under current law, men between 18 and 25 must register for the draft. If a draft were implemented, some of them would be drafted and put into combat situations. Forty-four percent (44%) of voters believe the law should be changed so women must also register for the draft.

A Scott Rasmussen national survey found that 35% disagree and 21% are not sure.

By a 2-to-1 margin, Democrats believe women should be eligible for the draft. Republicans and Independents are evenly divided.

If it is someday needed, just 13% believe the president should have the authority to implement a draft on his own. Seventy-seven percent (77%) believe the president be required to get approval from Congress.

SIGN UP to receive Scott’s free email newsletter.

CHECK OUT Scott’s latest polls.

Question 1:

At this point in time, should the United States return to a military draft?

23% Yes

59% No

18% Not sure

Question 2:

Under current law, men between 18 and 25 must register for the draft. If a draft were implemented, some of them would be drafted and put into combat situations. Should the law be changed so women must also register for the draft?

44% Yes

35% No

21% Not sure

Question 3:

If needed, should the president have the authority to implement a draft on his own? Or should the president be required to get approval from Congress?

13% Implement on his own

77% Get approval from Congress

10% Not sure

Methodology

The survey of 1,200 Registered Voters was conducted online by Scott Rasmussen on November 22-23, 2021. Field work for the survey was conducted by RMG Research, Inc. Certain quotas were applied, and the sample was lightly weighted by geography, gender, age, race, education, internet usage, and political party to reasonably reflect the nation’s population of Registered Voters. Other variables were reviewed to ensure that the final sample is representative of that population.

Biden: 43% Approve, 52% Disapprove… Build Back Better Plan Unlikely to Help

Posted on November 28, 2021 | by Staff Writer

Forty-three percent (43%) of voters nationwide now approve of the way President Biden is performing his job. The latest Scott Rasmussen survey finds that 52% disapprove and 5% are not sure. The numbers reflect a slight improvement from the president’s lowest approval ratings.

Those totals include just 21% of voters who Strongly Approve of the president’s performance while 39% Strongly Disapprove.

For most of September and the first half of October, the president’s Job Approval averaged 45%. However, over the past eight surveys, an average of 43% have voiced approval for President Biden. Six of those eight surveys have found the president’s ratings within two points of the average.

The legislation being considered in Congress is unlikely to boost the president’s numbers partly because voters have largely tuned out. Just 19% recognize both that the infrastructure bill passed and that the Build Back Better plan has not.

The lack of voter awareness about his legislative efforts may, in fact, be a blessing for the president. At a time when just 9% believe that the worst of inflation is behind us, 56% believe the president’s plan will make things worse by increasing inflation.

Beyond that, the Build Back Better plan–called the Big Government Socialism Bill by Republicans– has a number of extraordinarily unpopular provisions.

Sixty-percent (60%) oppose the Build Back Better payments to illegal immigrants. Just 28% support those payments.
Seventy-three percent (73%) oppose the president’s plan giving the IRS more access to personal and business financial information. That’s partly because 72% think the IRS already collects too much personal information. Voters strongly believe the agency will use new information to target political enemies and the middle class.
The plan includes a tax credit of up to $50,000 for print journalists. Only 19% like that idea.
If someone is physically able to work, 78% of voters believe they should be required to seek a job in order to receive financial support from the government. The Biden plan weakens existing work requirements and does not include such requirements for new benefits.
The plan encourages a rapid transition to electric vehicles. However, just 26% of voters support that goal. Sixty-six percent (66%) believe the transition should wait at least until the needed batteries can be manufactured in the U.S. rather than relying upon China.
The Build Back Better plan expands eligibility for federal benefits at a time when 55% of voters believe too many are already receiving benefits rather than working.
Most voters (53%) believe it is more important protect the existing Medicare program rather than expanding it by adding new benefits. Just 34% disagree.
There are a number of other unpopular provisions including requirements to increase the cost of daycare, reduce the ability of faith-based organizations to provide daycare services, providing federal funding for abortions, and more.

Beyond the political problems with the Build Back Better plan, another challenge facing the president is that pessimism about the pandemic is growing again. However, pessimistic voters have wildly different concerns. Only half (51%) are worried about ongoing health issues. Thirty-six percent (36%) are worried about more government restrictions and mandates.

These results help explain why 49% of voters believe relaxing vaccine mandates, mask requirements, and social distancing guidelines would be good for the economy. Just 30% disagree.

These findings, along with other data, provide a sense that support for vaccine mandates is soft. Forty-eight percent (48%) of voters now say they favor the mandates. That’s down six points over the past two months.

Finally, despite the heated rhetoric on both sides, just 13% see Kyle Rittenhouse as a hero. A larger number–25%– say that he is a murderer. However, a solid plurality of 43% believe Rittenhouse did stupid things but is not a murderer.

SIGN UP to receive Scott’s free email newsletter.

CHECK OUT Scott’s latest polls.

Question:

Do you approve or disapprove of the way President Biden is performing his job?

21% Strongly approve

22% Somewhat approve

13% Somewhat disapprove

39% Strongly disapprove

5% Not sure

Methodology

26% Have Participated in A Boycott

Posted on November 28, 2021 | by Staff Writer

At some point in their life, 26% of voters have participated in a boycott against a company because of their political position. A Scott Rasmussen national survey found that far larger numbers have stopped shopping somewhere because they were unhappy with the company’s service (78%) or products (68%).

Twenty-five percent (25%) have at some point been so upset by a boycott that they went out of their way to purchase things from the company being boycotted.

SIGN UP to receive Scott’s free email newsletter.

CHECK OUT Scott’s latest polls.

Question 1:

Have you ever stopped shopping somewhere because you were unhappy with their products?

68% Yes

28% No

4% Not sure

Question 2:

Okay… have you ever stopped shopping somewhere because you were unhappy with the service you received?

78% Yes

17% No

4% Not sure

Question 3:

Have you ever stopped buying products from a company because of their political positions?

34% Yes

57% No

9% Not sure

Question 4:

Have you ever participated in a boycott against a company because of their political position?

26% Yes

68% No

6% Not sure

Question 5:

Sometimes people are upset when others boycott a company. Have you ever been so upset by a boycott that you went out of your way to purchase things from the company being boycotted?

25% Yes

66% No

9% Not sure

Question 6:

Generally speaking, are boycotts an appropriate means of expressing political views?

54% Yes

29% No

18% Not sure

Methodology

The survey of 1,200 Registered Voters was conducted online by Scott Rasmussen on November 17-18, 2021. Field work for the survey was conducted by RMG Research, Inc. Certain quotas were applied, and the sample was lightly weighted by geography, gender, age, race, education, internet usage, and political party to reasonably reflect the nation’s population of Registered Voters. Other variables were reviewed to ensure that the final sample is representative of that population.

Voter Attitudes on America & the Role of Government Are Controversial in Official Washington

Posted on November 27, 2021 | by Staff Writer

Voters continue to strongly hold attitudes and beliefs that are considered controversial or oppose by those in official Washington.

84% believe it would be a good idea to place term limits on members of Congress.
75% agree that “America was founded on the ideals of freedom, equality, and self-governance. Our nation has a tragic history of racial injustice, but we have made and continue to make progress.”
75% believe the federal government is a special interest group that looks out primarily for its own interests.
74% agree that “Equality of opportunity is a fundamental American principle; equality of outcome is not.”
When it comes to making important decisions about the nation’s future, 69% trust everyday Americans more than government leaders.
67% recognize that just about all positive change in America begins outside of America’s political system.
68% think it is better when governing decisions are made by state and local governments rather than the federal government.

SIGN UP to receive Scott’s free email newsletter.

CHECK OUT Scott’s latest polls.

Question:

Please Let me know if you agree or disagree with each of the following statements:

It would be a good idea to place term limits on members of Congress.

59% Strongly approve

25% Somewhat approve

5% Somewhat disapprove

2% Strongly disapprove

9% Not sure

Equality of opportunity is a fundamental American principle; equality of outcome is not.

38% Strongly approve

36% Somewhat approve

9% Somewhat disapprove

4% Strongly disapprove

13% Not sure

America was founded on the ideals of freedom, equality, and self-governance. Our nation has a tragic history of racial injustice, but we have made and continue to make progress.

36% Strongly approve

39% Somewhat approve

14% Somewhat disapprove

5% Strongly disapprove

6% Not sure

Just about all positive change in America begins outside of America’s political system.

31% Strongly approve

36% Somewhat approve

11% Somewhat disapprove

5% Strongly disapprove

17% Not sure

The federal government is a special interest group that looks out primarily for its own interests.

42% Strongly approve

33% Somewhat approve

12% Somewhat disapprove

4% Strongly disapprove

8% Not sure

When it comes to making important decisions about the nation’s future, I trust everyday Americans more than government leaders.

39% Strongly approve

30% Somewhat approve

16% Somewhat disapprove

4% Strongly disapprove

11% Not sure

It is better when governing decisions are made by state and local governments rather than the federal government

29% Strongly approve

39% Somewhat approve

13% Somewhat disapprove

4% Strongly disapprove

16% Not sure

Methodology

Fewer Than Half Knew Facts of Rittenhouse Case

Posted on November 24, 2021 | by Staff Writer

When asked whether 6 statements about the Kyle Rittenhouse statement were true, fewer than half gave the correct answer to any of the six. A Scott Rasmussen national survey generally found that those who got their news from CNN were more likely to give a wrong answer than Fox viewers.

SIGN UP to receive Scott’s free email newsletter.

CHECK OUT Scott’s latest polls.

Question 1:

Please let me know if each of the following statements are true or false:

The people shot by Rittenhouse were Black men.

27% True

46% False

26% Not sure

The people shot and killed by Rittenhouse were unarmed.

32% True

45% False

23% Not sure

One of the men who was shot pointed a gun at Rittenhouse’s head.

48% True

16% False

36% Not sure

Rittenhouse had no connection to Kenosha, where the shootings occurred.

35% True

31% False

34% Not sure

Rittenhouse illegally carried a gun across state lines.

39% True

31% False

29% Not sure

The protests and riots in Kenosha were caused by the police shooting and killing of an unarmed Black man.

50% True

16% False

34% Not sure

Question 2:

How do you rate the way that the news media covered the Rittenhouse case?

14% Excellent

20% Good

20% Fair

32% Poor

13% Not sure

Methodology

49% Believe Relaxing COVID Restrictions Would Be Good for Economy; 30% Say It Would Be Bad

Posted on November 24, 2021 | by Staff Writer

Forty-nine percent (49%) of voters believe relaxing vaccine mandates, mask requirements, and social distancing guidelines would be good for the economy. A Scott Rasmussen national survey found that 30% disagree. Ten percent (10%) don’t believe it would have any impact while 11% are not sure.

By a 3-to-1 margin, voters who believe the worst of the pandemic is behind us believe easing restrictions would be good for the economy. Voters who believe the worst is still to come are evenly divided.

Voters who don’t believe the worst is behind us have wildly different concerns. Only half (51%) are worried about ongoing health issues. Thirty-six percent (36%) are worried about more government restrictions and mandates. This suggests that government efforts to combat the virus through further restrictions are likely to antagonize many voters.

The latest numbers also confirm that pessimism about the pandemic is growing once again. The latest numbers show that just 40% now believe the worst is behind us while 37% say the worst is yet to come. That’s the lowest net positive rating since late September.

Perceptions about the pandemic have resembled a roller coaster ride from the very beginning. When the lockdowns first began, a majority of voters believed the pandemic would end by Memorial Day 2020.

In 2021, optimism rose quickly when the vaccines became available. By May, 56% believed the worst was behind us. However, confidence crashed over the summer with the arrival of the Delta variant. By July, just 28% still believed the worst had already come and gone. Confidence began to grow again in early October before peaking a couple of weeks ago and resuming its downhill trajectory.

SIGN UP to receive Scott’s free email newsletter.

CHECK OUT Scott’s latest polls.

Question 1:

Which of the following best describes your reaction to taking the COVID vaccine?

65% I have already been vaccinated.

5% I want to be vaccinated as soon as possible.

4% I want to wait and see how it works before getting vaccinated.

7% I’m in no particular rush to get vaccinated.

15% I will never get vaccinated.

3% Not sure

Question 2:

Is the worst of the pandemic behind us, or is it still to come?

40% Behind us

37% Still to come

22% Not sure

Question 3:

Would relaxing vaccine mandates, mask requirements, and social distancing guidelines be good for the economy or bad for the economy?

49% Good for the economy

30% Bad for the economy

10% No impact

11% Not sure

Methodology

81% See Inflation As Ongoing Problem; Just 9% Say Worst of Price Increases Are Behind Us

Posted on November 24, 2021 | by Staff Writer

Eighty-seven percent (87%) of voters have recently experienced sharp price increases. A Scott Rasmussen national survey found that only 8% have not and another 5% are not sure.

Just 9% believe the worst of the price increases behind us. The vast majority of voters (81%) believe inflation will be an ongoing problem.

Data released earlier found that 56% believe President Biden’s Build Back Better plan will make things worse by increasing inflation. Just 14% think that legislative plan will help by reducing inflation. Those results are consistent with other survey data showing that 59% generally believe that increased government spending leads to inflation.

Fifty-seven percent (57%) believe it is accurate to call inflation a tax on the poor. A Scott Rasmussen national survey found that 23% disagree and 20% are not sure.

SIGN UP to receive Scott’s free email newsletter.

CHECK OUT Scott’s latest polls.

Question 1:

Thinking about things you buy on a regular basis, have you recently experienced sharp price increases?

87% Yes

8% No

5% Not sure

Question 2:

Looking ahead, do you believe that inflation will be an ongoing problem? Or are the worst of the price increases behind us?

81% An ongoing problem

9% Worse is behind us

9% Not sure

Methodology

49% Believe Colleges Should Provide a Patriotic Education

Posted on November 23, 2021 | by Staff Writer

Forty-nine percent (49%) of voters believe colleges should provide a patriotic education. A Scott Rasmussen national survey found that 26% disagree and 25% are not sure.

Fifty-seven percent (57%) of men favor a patriotic education along with 43% of women.

The survey also found that just 39% believe most college graduates have the practical skills needed to earn a living. Forty percent (40%) don’t believe they have such skills and 20% are not sure.

Thirty-four percent (34%) believe people without a college degree more pragmatic than college graduates. Thirty-two percent (32%) disagree and 33% are not sure.

Overall, 22% believe too many Americans have a college degree. Interestingly, those with a college degree are more likely to hold that view than those without a degree.

SIGN UP to receive Scott’s free email newsletter.

CHECK OUT Scott’s latest polls.

Question 1:

Are there too many Americans with a college degree?

22% Yes

58% No

20% Not sure

Question 2:

When they finish college, do most college graduates have the practical skills needed to earn a living?

39% Yes

40% No

20% Not sure

Question 3:

Generally speaking, are people without a college degree more pragmatic than college graduates?

34% Yes

32% No

33% Not sure

Question 4:

Should colleges provide a patriotic education?

49% Yes

26% No

25% Not sure

Methodology

61% Favor Easing Vaccine Mandates for Police Officers, Firefighters, Health Care Workers

Posted on November 19, 2021 | by Staff Writer

Sixty-one percent (61%) of voters favor relaxing vaccine mandates for police officers and fire fighters to avoid closing police and fire stations. A Scott Rasmussen national survey found that 29% are opposed.

By a 61% to 30% margin, voters also favor relaxing vaccine mandates for health care workers so that hospitals and other health care facilities can remain open.

Data released earlier showed that 59% favor relaxing mandates to ease supply chain problems.

Seventy-five percent (75%) of voters are close to resuming normal life.

SIGN UP to receive Scott’s free email newsletter.

CHECK OUT Scott’s latest polls.

Question 1:

A number of police officers and firefighters have quit rather than get the COVID vaccine. In some areas, police and fire stations have closed. Would you favor or oppose relaxing vaccine mandates to avoid closing police and fire stations?

42% Strongly favor

19% Somewhat favor

13% Somewhat oppose

16% Strongly oppose

10% Not sure

Question 2:

Some healthcare workers have quit rather than get the COVID vaccine. This may cause some hospitals and healthcare facilities to close. Would you favor or oppose relaxing vaccine mandates so that hospitals and other health care facilities can remain open?

44% Strongly favor

17% Somewhat favor

11% Somewhat favor

19% Strongly favor

9% Not sure

Methodology

The survey of 1,200 Registered Voters was conducted online by Scott Rasmussen on November 15-16, 2021. Field work for the survey was conducted by RMG Research, Inc. Certain quotas were applied, and the sample was lightly weighted by geography, gender, age, race, education, internet usage, and political party to reasonably reflect the nation’s population of Registered Voters. Other variables were reviewed to ensure that the final sample is representative of that population.

Support for Vaccine Mandate Declines; Just 30% Believe President Has Legal Authority to Order It

Posted on November 19, 2021 | by Staff Writer

Forty-eight percent (48%) of voters the Biden administration’s attempt to mandate COVID vaccines for all workers at companies with more than 100 workers. A Scott Rasmussen national survey found that 46% are opposed.

Those figures reflect a decline in support over the past two months. In mid-September, 54% favored the mandate and 37% were opposed.

One possible reason for the decline is that 63% of voters have experienced supply chain problems. Fifty-nine percent (59%) favor relaxing vaccine mandates to ease the supply chain problems.

The survey also found that a majority of voters (53%) do not believe the president have the legal authority to impose his order on private companies. That’s up eight points since September.

Thirty percent (30%) now believe the president does have the authority to implement the mandate. That’s down three points over the past two months.

The question of legality is currently working it’s way through the courts.

SIGN UP to receive Scott’s free email newsletter.

CHECK OUT Scott’s latest polls.

Question 1:

For all companies with more than 100 employees, the Biden administration has mandated that they must require their workers to be vaccinated or submit to weekly testing. Do you favor or oppose this proposal?

29% Strongly favor

19% Somewhat favor

11% Somewhat oppose

35% Strongly oppose

6% Not sure

Question 2:

Regardless of whether you favor or oppose the vaccine mandates, does the president have the legal authority to order private companies to impose a vaccine requirement?

30% Yes

53% No

17% Not sure

Methodology

92% Say Inflation Is A Serious Problem; 56% Say Build Back Better Plan Will Make It Worse

Posted on November 18, 2021 | by Staff Writer

Ninety-two percent (92%) of voters say that inflation is a serious problem these days. A Scott Rasmussen national survey found that just 5% disagree and 3% are not sure.

Those totals include 64% who consider inflation to be a Very Serious and 2% who say it is Not at All Serious.

The survey also found that 56% believe the Build Back Better plan being considered by Congress will make things worse by increasing inflation. Just 14% think that legislative plan will help by reducing inflation. Nine percent (9%) don’t think the legislation will have any impact on inflation and 22% are not sure.

Voters are not paying much attention to the Congressional debate on President Biden’s proposal. Just 19% know that the infrastructure bill has passed and the Build Back Better plan hasn’t.

Because of that, polling on the topic is heavily dependent upon how the proposed legislation is described. For the questions on inflation, respondents were told that it would increase both government spending and taxes. Nothing else was added to the question.

Other data shows that voters generally believe that more government spending leads to higher inflation. Fifty-seven percent (57%) see inflation as a tax on the poor. Just 23% disagree.

SIGN UP to receive Scott’s free email newsletter.

CHECK OUT Scott’s latest polls.

Question 1:

How serious a problem is inflation these days?

64% Very serious

28% Somewhat serious

3% Not very serious

2% Not at all serious

3% Not sure

Question 2:

The Build Back Better plan would increase both government spending and taxes. Will that plan increase inflation or decrease inflation?

56% Increase

14% Decrease

9% No impact

22% Not sure

Methodology

Just 43% Know Infrastructure Bill Passed; Only 36% Know Build Back Better Plan Hasn’t

Posted on November 18, 2021 | by Staff Writer

While the debate over President Biden’s legislative agenda has consumed official Washington, voters have remained fairly disengaged. In fact, just 43% know that the Infrastructure bill has been passed. Additionally, only 36% know that the Build Back Better plan has not.

Just one-out-of-five voters (19%) answered both questions correctly.

The survey was conducted over the 24 hours following President Biden’s signing of the Infrastructure bill.

There was little partisan difference on the question about the infrastructure bill. As for the Build Back Better proposal, Democrats were somewhat more likely to mistakenly believe it had passed. On both questions, older voters were more informed than younger voters.

Other data suggests that voters are more focused on other issues: 63% have experienced supply chain problems. Fifty-nine percent (59%) want vaccine mandates relaxed to address the supply chain issues.

Other data shows that 55% of voters believe that too many people are receiving federal benefits rather than working. Thirty-four percent (34%) disagree and believe that too many people are not receiving the government help they need to get by.

SIGN UP to receive Scott’s free email newsletter.

CHECK OUT Scott’s latest polls.

Question 1:

An infrastructure plan proposed by President Biden was passed by the Senate. Has it been passed by the House of Representatives yet?

43% Yes

19% No

38% Not sure

Question 2:

The president also proposed a Build Back Better plan. Has that plan been approved by Congress?

25% Yes

36% No

39% Not sure

Methodology

59% Favor Relaxing Vaccine Mandates to Ease Supply Chain Problems; 28% Oppose

Posted on November 18, 2021 | by Staff Writer

Fifty-nine percent (59%) of voters favor relaxing vaccine mandates to ease supply chain issues. A Scott Rasmussen national survey found that 28% are opposed to relaxing the mandates and 13% are not sure.

Those totals include 35% who Strongly Favor relaxing the mandates and 14% who are Strongly Opposed.

The survey found that 63% of voters have recently experienced supply chain issues such as backorders, delays, and shortages of items they would like to buy.

Fifty percent (50%) of voters believe vaccine mandates have made supply chain problems worse. Twenty-two percent (22%) disagree and 28% are not sure.

Seventy-five percent (75%) of Republicans favor relaxing the mandates. Independent voters by a 54% to 31% margin, agree. Democrats are more evenly divided– 48% favor relaxing the mandates and 40% are opposed.

As on many issues, there is a gap between the views of White Democrats and Black Democrats. By a 47% to 43% margin, White Democrats oppose relaxing the mandates. Black Democrats favor relaxing the mandates by a 51% to 32% margin. Hispanic and other Democrats favor relaxing the mandates by a 64% to 28% margin.

SIGN UP to receive Scott’s free email newsletter.

CHECK OUT Scott’s latest polls.

Question 1:

Have you recently experienced any supply chain problems such as backorders, delays, or shortages of items you would like to buy?

63% Yes

29% No

7% Not sure

Question 2:

Have vaccine mandates made supply chain problems more severe?

50% Yes

22% No

28% Not sure

Question 3:

Would you favor or oppose relaxing vaccine mandates to ease supply chain issues?

35% Strongly favor

24% Somewhat favor

14% Somewhat oppose

14% Strongly oppose

13% Not sure

Methodology

96% Say Free Speech is Important; 81% Say Diversity is Important

Posted on November 16, 2021 | by Staff Writer

Ninety-six percent (96%) of voters say free speech is important. A Scott Rasmussen national survey found that 81% say the same about diversity and 75% see inclusiveness as important.

Those totals include 80% who say free speech is Very Important; 49% who say diversity is Very Important; and, 40% who see inclusiveness as Very Important.

Data released earlier showed that 79% of voters believe that free speech protects minority rights. Also, 64% believe no one is empowered more by free speech than the historically marginalized and dispossessed.

Just 22% think that those who support free speech are enemies of diversity. Sixty-nine percent (69%) reject that view.

SIGN UP to receive Scott’s free email newsletter.

CHECK OUT Scott’s latest polls.

Question:

How important are each of the following:

Free speech:

80% Very important

16% Somewhat important

1% Not very important

1% Not at all important

2% Not sure

Inclusiveness:

40% Very important

35% Somewhat important

12% Not very important

3% Not at all important

9% Not sure

Diversity:

49% Very important

32% Somewhat important

11% Not very important

4% Not at all important

4% Not sure

Methodology

The survey of 1,200 Registered Voters was conducted online by Scott Rasmussen on October 28-30, 2021. Field work for the survey was conducted by RMG Research, Inc. Certain quotas were applied, and the sample was lightly weighted by geography, gender, age, race, education, internet usage, and political party to reasonably reflect the nation’s population of Registered Voters. Other variables were reviewed to ensure that the final sample is representative of that population.

74% Believe It Should Be Against the Law to Fire Someone for their Political Beliefs

Posted on November 16, 2021 | by Staff Writer

Seventy-four percent (74%) of voters believe it should be against the law to fire someone because of their political beliefs. A Scott Rasmussen national survey found that 17% disagree and 8% are not sure.

Seventy-seven percent (77%) of Republicans believe it should be illegal to fire someone because of their political beliefs. So do 73% of Independent voters and 72% of Independents.

SIGN UP to receive Scott’s free email newsletter.

CHECK OUT Scott’s latest polls.

Question:

Should it be against the law to fire someone because of their political beliefs?

74% Yes

17% No

8% Not sure

Methodology

The survey of 1,000 Registered Voters was conducted online by Scott Rasmussen on October 21-23, 2021. Field work for the survey was conducted by RMG Research, Inc. Certain quotas were applied, and the sample was lightly weighted by geography, gender, age, race, education, internet usage, and political party to reasonably reflect the nation’s population of Registered Voters. Other variables were reviewed to ensure that the final sample is representative of that population.

79% Recognize That Free Speech Protects Minority Rights

Posted on November 16, 2021 | by Staff Writer

Seventy-nine percent (79%) of voters believe that free speech protects minority rights. A Scott Rasmussen national survey also showed that 64% believe no one is empowered more by free speech than the historically marginalized and dispossessed.

Just 22% think that those who support free speech are enemies of diversity. Sixty-nine percent (69%) reject that view.

Frederick Douglass called free speech “the great moral renovator of society and government.” Seventy-six percent (76%) of voters agree.

Douglass, born into slavery became one of the nation’s greatest orators. On the eve of the Civil War, he gave a speech observing that free speech “is the dread of tyrants. It is the right which they first of all strike down. They know its power. Thrones, dominions, principalities, and powers, founded in injustice and wrong, are sure to tremble, if men are allowed to reason of righteousness, temperance, and of a judgment to come in their presence.”

As it applied to the dominant issue of his day, Douglass said “Slavery cannot tolerate free speech. Five years of its exercise would banish the auction block and break every chain in the South.”

SIGN UP to receive Scott’s free email newsletter.

CHECK OUT Scott’s latest polls.

Question:

Do you agree or disagree with the following statements:

No one is empowered more by free speech than the historically marginalized and dispossessed

28% Strongly agree

36% Somewhat agree

13% Somewhat disagree

5% Strongly disagree

19% Not sure

People who support free speech are enemies of diversity

12% Strongly agree

10% Somewhat agree

22% Somewhat disagree

47% Strongly disagree

8% Not sure

Free speech is the great moral renovator of society and government

38% Strongly agree

38% Somewhat agree

9% Somewhat disagree

2% Strongly disagree

13% Not sure

Free speech protects minority rights

43% Strongly agree

36% Somewhat agree

7% Somewhat disagree

3% Strongly disagree

11% Not sure

Methodology

26% Say Personal Finances Getting Better; 30% Say Worse

Posted on November 15, 2021 | by Staff Writer

Twenty-six percent (26%) of voters nationwide say their own personal finances are getting better. A Scott Rasmussen national survey found that 30% take the opposite view, saying their finances are getting worse.

Those results are marginally better than the numbers from a month ago. However, this is the third consecutive survey showing more pessimism than optimism. That’s a big change from late July when 31% said their finances were getting better and just 26% said worse.

The current totals include 7% who say their finances are getting much better and 12% who say much worse. That’s a more negative assessment than last month.

Forty-three percent (43%) of voters rate their own personal finances as good or excellent. That’s up six points from a month ago but down six since April.

As for the overall economy, just 27% believe things are getting better while 52% think they are getting worse.

SIGN UP to receive Scott’s free email newsletter.

CHECK OUT Scott’s latest polls.

Question 1:

How do you rate the U.S. economy these days?

4% Excellent

20% Good

32% Fair

41% Poor

3% Not sure

Question 2:

Okay, is the U.S. economy getting better or worse these days?

5% Much better

22% Somewhat better

18% About the same

28% Somewhat worse

24% Much worse

3% Not sure

Question 3:

How do you rate your personal finances these days?

11% Excellent

32% Good

35% Fair

21% Poor

1% Not sure

Question 4:

Are your personal finances getting better or worse these days?

7% Much better

19% Somewhat better

42% About the same

18% Somewhat worse

12% Much worse

2% Not sure

Question 5:

Is the United States currently in a recession?

40% Yes

29% No

31% Not sure

Methodology

The survey of 1,200 Registered Voters was conducted online by Scott Rasmussen on November 4-7, 2021. Field work for the survey was conducted by RMG Research, Inc. Certain quotas were applied, and the sample was lightly weighted by geography, gender, age, race, education, internet usage, and political party to reasonably reflect the nation’s population of Registered Voters. Other variables were reviewed to ensure that the final sample is representative of that population.

46% Believe Worst of the Pandemic is Behind Us

Posted on November 15, 2021 | by Staff Writer

Forty-six percent (46%) of voters now believe the worst of the pandemic is behind us. That’s up six points since the end of October and up 18 points since the end of September. A Scott Rasmussen national survey found that 28% believe the worst is still to come and 26% are not sure.

This is the most optimistic assessment since May.

Looking back, confidence about the pandemic grew dramatically early in the area as the vaccines became available. By May, 56% of voters said the worst was behind us.

However, with the arrival of the Delta variant, confidence collapsed. By late August, just 25% believed the worst was behind us. At that point, nearly twice as many (48%) believed the worst was still to come.

Then, when October arrived, confidence once again began to grow dramatically. By the end of October, 75% of voters were close to resuming their normal life in terms of going out socially, traveling, and interacting with others in person.

Among those who don’t believe the worst is behind us, only half (51%) are worried about ongoing health issues. Thirty-six percent (36%) are worried about more government restrictions and mandates. This suggests that government efforts to combat the virus through further restrictions are likely to antagonize many voters.

SIGN UP to receive Scott’s free email newsletter.

CHECK OUT Scott’s latest polls.

Question 1:

Is the worst of the pandemic behind us, or is it still to come?

46% Behind us

28% Still to come

26% Not sure

Question 2:

Did the Chinese government make the global pandemic worse by withholding important research and releasing false information?

68% Yes

10% No

21% Not sure

Methodology

The survey of 1,200 Registered Voters was conducted online by Scott Rasmussen on November 8-11, 2021. Field work for the survey was conducted by RMG Research, Inc. Certain quotas were applied, and the sample was lightly weighted by geography, gender, age, race, education, internet usage, and political party to reasonably reflect the nation’s population of Registered Voters. Other variables were reviewed to ensure that the final sample is representative of that population.

64% Believe Free Speech Empowers Black Americans and Other Minorities

Posted on November 14, 2021 | by Staff Writer

Sixty-four percent (64%) of voters believe free speech empowers Black Americans and other minorities. A Scott Rasmussen national survey found that 12% believe it oppresses minorities while 24% are not sure.

The idea that free speech empowers minority voices is shared by 65% of White voters, 61% of Hispanic voters, and 60% of Black voters.

However, just 46% recognize that free speech is a serious threat to ruling elites and powerful institutions.

SIGN UP to receive Scott’s free email newsletter.

CHECK OUT Scott’s latest polls.

Question 1:

Generally speaking, does free speech empower Black Americans and other minorities? Or does it work to oppress them?

64% Empower

12% Oppress

24% Not sure

Question 2:

Is there a conflict between free speech and inclusiveness?

37% Yes

35% No

28% Not sure

Question 3:

Okay… Is there a conflict between free speech and diversity?

35% Yes

45% No

20% Not sure

Question 4:

Is free speech a serious threat to ruling elites and powerful institutions?

46% Yes

33% No

21% Not sure

Methodology

55% Believe Too Many People Are Receiving Federal Benefits Rather Than Working

Posted on November 14, 2021 | by Staff Writer

Fifty-five percent (55%) of voters believe that too many people are receiving federal benefits rather than working. A Scott Rasmussen national survey found that 34% disagree and believe that too many people are not receiving the government help they need to get by.

The data highlights a significant divide within the Democratic coalition.

Among those who support policies like those of Senator Bernie Sanders, 59% believe too many people are not receiving the government help they need. Just 28% of Sanders’ voters believe too many people are receiving benefits.
Voters who prefer traditional Democratic policies are evenly divided on the question.

Most Republicans and Independents tend to believe that too many people are receiving benefits rather than working.

SIGN UP to receive Scott’s free email newsletter.

CHECK OUT Scott’s latest polls.

Question 1:

Generally speaking, which of the following is the bigger problem today: too many people are receiving federal benefits rather than working or too many people are not receiving the government help they need to get by?

55% Too many people are receiving federal benefits rather than working

34% Too many people are not receiving the government help they need to get by

11% Not sure

Methodology

The survey of 1,200 Registered Voters was conducted online by Scott Rasmussen on October 25-27, 2021. Field work for the survey was conducted by RMG Research, Inc. Certain quotas were applied, and the sample was lightly weighted by geography, gender, age, race, education, internet usage, and political party to reasonably reflect the nation’s population of Registered Voters. Other variables were reviewed to ensure that the final sample is representative of that population.

65% Favor Prohibiting U.S. Gov’t From Entering Into Contracts With Any Entity Relying Upon Forced Labor In China

Posted on November 14, 2021 | by Staff Writer

Sixty five percent (65%) of voters favor prohibiting the U.S. government from entering into contracts with any entity the relies upon the use of forced labor in China. A Scott Rasmussen national survey found 15% oppose such a ban and 19% are not sure.

The totals include 36% who Strongly Favor such a proposal and 4% who are Strongly Opposed.

Sixty-two percent (62%) believe it should be against the law for companies in the U.S. to purchase or sell any products made by forced labor in Chinese detention camps.

Data released earlier showed that 66% of voters believe it is important for the United States to hold China accountable for its abuse of the Uyghur Muslims. A broader question found that 80% of voters think it is important for the United States to hold China accountable for its use of slave labor and other human rights violations.

Fifty-eight percent (58%) believe the U.S. system of politics and government is morally superior to China’s. Just 16% disagree.

SIGN UP to receive Scott’s free email newsletter.

CHECK OUT Scott’s latest polls.

Question 1:

A proposal has been made that would prohibit the U.S. government from entering into contracts with any entity the relies upon the use of forced labor in China. Do you favor or oppose this proposal?

36% Strongly favor

29% Somewhat favor

11% Somewhat oppose

4% Strongly oppose

19% Not sure

Question 2:

Should it be against the law for companies in the U.S. to purchase or sell any products made by forced labor in Chinese detention camps?

62% Yes

18% No

20% Not sure

Question 3:

Preventing the United States government and companies from relying upon forced labor might increase the cost of some goods in the U.S. To boycott products made with forced labor, how much would you personally be willing to pay in higher costs?

27% Nothing

23% $10 a month

13% $25 a month

9% $50 a month

6% $100 a month

22% Whatever it takes

Methodology

66% Believe It Is Important for the United States to Hold China Accountable for its abuse of the Uyghur Muslims

Posted on November 14, 2021 | by Staff Writer

Sixty-six percent (66%) of voters believe it is important for the United States to hold China accountable for its abuse of the Uyghur Muslims. A Scott Rasmussen national survey found that 11% disagree and say it’s not important. Twenty-two percent (22%) are not sure.

Those totals include 37% who think it’s Very Important to hold China accountable and 4% who say it’s Not at All Important.

The desire to hold China accountable may be reduced somewhat by the fact that relatively few U.S. voters are aware of how China has abused the Uyghur Muslims.

Data released earlier showed that 80% of voters think it is important for the United States to hold China accountable for its use of slave labor and other human rights violations. Additionally, 60% believe it is important to hold China accountable for the spread of COVID-19.

Fifty-eight percent (58%) believe the U.S. system of politics and government is morally superior to China’s. Just 16% disagree.

SIGN UP to receive Scott’s free email newsletter.

CHECK OUT Scott’s latest polls.

Question:

How important is it for the United States to hold China accountable for its abuse of the Uyghur Muslims?

37% Very important

29% Somewhat important

7% Not very important

4% Not at all important

22% Not sure

Methodology

60% Oppose Payments To Illegal Immigrants Separated at Border

Posted on November 13, 2021 | by Staff Writer

Twenty-nine percent (29%) of voters are in favor of providing payments to illegal immigrants who were separated from their family. A Scott Rasmussen national survey found that 60% are opposed and 11% are not sure.

Those totals include 12% who Strongly Favor the payments and 48% who are Strongly Opposed.

Survey respondents were informed that the Trump administration’s policies caused some illegal immigrants to be separated from their families. Additionally, they were told that the Biden administration is now considering payments of up to $450,000 to each person who was separated from their family.

Republicans oppose the payments by a 77% to 18% margin. Among Independent voters, 61% are oppose while just 23% favor the payments.

However, Democrats have a different view. By a 48% to 40% margin, those in President Biden’s party favor payments to illegal immigrants who were separated from their family.

Among those who prefer policies like those of Senator Bernie Sanders, 53% favor the payments while 34% are opposed. The numbers are reversed among those who favor traditional Democratic policies. Among those voters, 33% favor the payments and 57% are opposed.

As on many issues, there is also a divide between White Democrats and Black Democrats. By a 49% to 41% margin, White Democrats favor the payments. On the other hand, Black Democrats oppose the payments by a 45% to 35% margin.

SIGN UP to receive Scott’s free email newsletter.

CHECK OUT Scott’s latest polls.

Question:

The Trump administration’s policies caused some illegal immigrants to be separated from their families. The Biden administration is now considering payments of up to $450,000 to each person who was separated from their family. Do you favor or oppose providing payments to illegal immigrants who were separated from their family?

12% Strongly favor

17% Somewhat favor

12% Somewhat oppose

48% Strongly oppose

11% Not sure

Methodology

Just 38% Recognize That Chinese Government Has Sent Uyghur Muslims to Detention Camps

Posted on November 12, 2021 | by Staff Writer

Just 38% of voters recognize that the Chinese government has sent nearly a million Uyghur Muslims to mass detention camps and subjected them to abuse, including forced labor. A Scott Rasmussen national survey found that 11% say it’s not true and 51% are not sure.

SIGN UP to receive Scott’s free email newsletter.

CHECK OUT Scott’s latest polls.

Question:

Is the following statement true or false: “The Chinese government has sent nearly a million Uyghur Muslims to mass detention camps. The government has also subjected the Uyghur Muslims to abuse, including forced labor.”

38% True

11% False

51% Not sure

Methodology

Biden Job Approval Hits New Low at 40%

Posted on November 11, 2021 | by Staff Writer

Forty percent (40%) of voters nationwide now approve of the way President Biden is performing his job. That’s down three points from three weeks ago and down seven points from mid-October. The latest Scott Rasmussen survey finds that 55% disapprove and 4% are not sure.

Those totals include just 17% of voters who Strongly Approve of the president’s performance while 39% Strongly Disapprove.

For most of September and the first half of October, the president’s Job Approval averaged 45%. However, over the past five surveys, an average of 43% have voiced approval for President Biden. The current survey is the lowest level yet recorded for the president in a Scott Rasmussen survey.

Looking ahead, 60% of voters say the economy is Very Important to their voting decision. Fifty-three percent (53%) say that both COVID and Election integrity are Very Important.

Lagging behind in voter priorities are Gun Laws (49%), Climate Change (45%), Economic Inequality (39%), and the January 6 assault on the U.S. Capitol (38%).

Sixty-one percent (61%) of voters believe economic policy should focus on encouraging growth rather than fighting economic inequality. A Scott Rasmussen national survey found that 27% disagree and 12% are not sure.

Forty-four percent (44%) believe the worst of the pandemic is behind us. Another 29% have ongoing concerns about health related issues while 20% have ongoing concerns about government restrictions. Overall, that means nearly two-thirds of voters (64%) believe either that the worst is behind us or fear ongoing government restrictions.

Republicans continue to hold a 41% – 40% edge on the Generic Congressional Ballot.

The president’s low job approval ratings come as the vast majority of Americans experience sharp inflation (77%) and supply chain issues (63%).

Fifty-seven percent (57%) believe inflation is a tax on the poor. Just 23% disagree. Additionally, at a time when the president wants Congress to pass a social welfare spending bill, 59% of voters nationwide believe increased government spending leads to inflation. Only 14% disagree.

The legislation–called the Build Back Better plan by Democrats and the Big Government Socialism bill by Republicans– is still being negotiated by Democratic factions in Congress. One point of contention between progressive Democrats and more moderate Democrats is Medicare. Among voters, 53% believe it is more important to provide funding that would protect the existing Medicare program rather than expanding Medicare by adding new benefits.

Saule Omarova, President Biden’s nominee to serve as Comptroller of the Currency., has advocated eliminating all private banks in the United States and having the federal government provide banking services for everyone. Just 23% of voters support that idea.

SIGN UP to receive Scott’s free email newsletter.

CHECK OUT Scott’s latest polls.

Question:

Do you approve or disapprove of the way President Biden is performing his job?

17% Strongly approve

23% Somewhat approve

16% Somewhat disapprove

39% Strongly disapprove

5% Not sure

Methodology

The survey of 1,200 Registered Voters was conducted online by Scott Rasmussen on November 8-9, 2021. Field work for the survey was conducted by RMG Research, Inc. Certain quotas were applied, and the sample was lightly weighted by geography, gender, age, race, education, internet usage, and political party to reasonably reflect the nation’s population of Registered Voters. Other variables were reviewed to ensure that the final sample is representative of that population.

23% Support Federal Takeover of Banking System; 63% Oppose

Posted on November 11, 2021 | by Staff Writer

Twenty-three percent (23%) of voters favor eliminating all private banks in the United States and having the federal government provide banking services for everyone. That approach has been advocated by Saule Omarova, President Biden’s nominee to serve as Comptroller of the Currency.

A Scott Rasmussen national survey found that 63% are opposed to ending the private banking system and 14% are not sure.

Those totals include 8% who Strongly Favor the proposal and 47% who are Strongly Opposed.

Those who support policies like those of Bernie Sanders are evenly divided on the question. Traditional Democrats oppose the federal takeover of banks by a 62% to 25% margin.

There is a similar gap on questions of economic policy goals. A plurality of Sanders’ supporters believe fighting economic inequality is more important than encouraging economic growth. By a 64% to 29% margin, traditional Democrats want the focus on economic growth.

SIGN UP to receive Scott’s free email newsletter.

CHECK OUT Scott’s latest polls.

Question:

A proposal has been made that would eliminate all private banks in the United States and have the federal government provide banking services for everyone. Do you favor or oppose this proposal?

8% Strongly favor

15% Somewhat favor

16% Somewhat oppose

47% Strongly oppose

14% Not sure

Methodology

60% Say Economy Very Important Voting Issue; 53% Say Same About COVID and Election Integrity

Posted on November 11, 2021 | by Staff Writer

In terms of how they will vote, 60% of voters say the economy is Very Important. A Scott Rasmussen national survey found that 53% say the same about COVID and Election integrity.

Lagging behind in voter priorities are Gun Laws (49%), Climate Change (45%), Economic Inequality (39%), and the January 6 assault on the U.S. Capitol (38%).

Among these issues, COVID, Climate Change, and the events of January 6 are most important for Democrats.

For Republicans, the top issues are the Economy, Election Integrity, and COVID.

Among Independent voters, the Economy comes out on top. It is followed by Gun Laws, COVID, and Climate Change.

SIGN UP to receive Scott’s free email newsletter.

CHECK OUT Scott’s latest polls.

Question:

In terms of how you will vote, please let me know how important each of the following issues is:

The economy

60% Very important

29% Somewhat important

4% Not very important

1% Not at all important

6% Not sure

COVID

53% Very important

27% Somewhat important

10% Not very important

4% Not at all important

6% Not sure

Election integrity

53% Very important

25% Somewhat important

8% Not very important

5% Not at all important

8% Not sure

Gun laws

49% Very important

31% Somewhat important

8% Not very important

6% Not at all important

7% Not sure

Climate change

45% Very important

30% Somewhat important

9% Not very important

10% Not at all important

5% Not sure

The January 6th assault on U.S. Capitol

38% Very important

25% Somewhat important

12% Not very important

13% Not at all important

11% Not sure

Economic inequality

39% Very important

33% Somewhat important

11% Not very important

8% Not at all important

7% Not sure

Methodology

61% Say Policy Should Focus on Encouraging Economic Growth; 27% Say Fighting Economic Inequality

Posted on November 11, 2021 | by Staff Writer

By a 49% to 40% margin, those who prefer Bernie Sanders like policies think fighting inequality is more important. However, those who prefer traditional Democratic policies take the opposite view: 64% believe economic growth should be the goal while just 29% want the focus on inequality.

The views of traditional Republicans are similar to those of traditional Democrats. Those who prefer policies like those of Donald Trump favor growth over fighting inequality by a 78% to 11% margin.

SIGN UP to receive Scott’s free email newsletter.

CHECK OUT Scott’s latest polls.

Question:

In terms of economic policy, which is more important: encouraging economic growth or fighting economic inequality?

61% Encouraging economic growth

27% Fighting economic inequality

12% Not sure

Methodology

Those Worried About Pandemic Are Divided as to Why

Posted on November 11, 2021 | by Staff Writer

SIGN UP to receive Scott’s free email newsletter.

CHECK OUT Scott’s latest polls.

Question:

What worries you more about the pandemic: the possibility of more health-related issues or the possibility of more government restrictions and mandates?*

*asked of those who think the worst of the pandemic is still to come, or aren’t sure

51% Health-related issues

36% More government restrictions and mandates

13% Not sure

Methodology

44% Say Worst of Pandemic Behind Us; 29% Have Concerns About Ongoing Health Issues; 20% Concerned About More Gov’t Mandates

Posted on November 10, 2021 | by Staff Writer

Forty-four percent (44%) of voters now believe the worst of the pandemic is behind us. That’s up four points from a week ago and up 16 points from a month ago. A Scott Rasmussen national survey found that 29% believe the worst is still to come and 27% are not sure.

Fifty-one percent (51%) of men believe the worst is behind us along with 38% of women.

Overall, this is the most optimistic assessment since late May.

Among the voters who don’t believe the worst is behind us, roughly half (51%) are worried about ongoing health issues. However, 36% are worried about more government restrictions and mandates.

Combining the two questions shows that 44% believe the worst is behind us, 29% have ongoing concerns about health related issues, and 20% have ongoing concerns about government restrictions.

SIGN UP to receive Scott’s free email newsletter.

CHECK OUT Scott’s latest polls.

Question:

Is the worst of the pandemic behind us, or is it still to come?

44% Behind us

29% Still to come

27% Not sure

Methodology

68% Believe Illegal Immigration Increases Federal Spending and Deficits

Posted on November 9, 2021 | by Staff Writer

When people enter the United States illegally, 68% of voters believe it leads to an increase in federal spending and deficits. A Scott Rasmussen national survey found that 14% disagree and 18% are not sure.

Eighty-five percent (85%) of voters who prefer Trump-like policies believe illegal immigration leads to higher government spending and deficits. That view is shared by 74% of those who prefer traditional Republican policies, 60% of traditional Democrats, and 53% of Sanders’ Democrats.

The survey also found that 60% of voters believe illegal immigration leads to increased crime.

SIGN UP to receive Scott’s free email newsletter.

CHECK OUT Scott’s latest polls.

Question 1:

Which of the following best describes your views on immigration:

17% Both legal and illegal immigration are bad for the United States

61% Legal immigration is good for the United States, but illegal immigration is bad

12% Both legal and illegal immigration are good for the United States

10% Not sure

Question 2:

When people enter the United States illegally, does it lead to an increase in federal spending and deficits?

68% Yes

14% No

18% Not sure

Question 3:

Okay… When people enter the United States illegally, does it lead to an increase in crime?

60% Yes

20% No

20% Not sure

Methodology

84% Want Everyone Entering the U.S. Tested for COVID and Other Health Risks

Posted on November 9, 2021 | by Staff Writer

Eighty-four percent (84%) of voters favor a proposal requiring everyone entering the United States—including immigrants and visitors—to be tested for COVID and other health risks. A Scott Rasmussen national survey found that 10% oppose such a requirement and 6% are not sure.

Those totals include who Strongly Favor requiring health tests for everyone entering the country and 5% who are Strongly Opposed.

That proposal is favored by 85% of White voters, 82% of Hispanic voters, and 77% of Black voters.

SIGN UP to receive Scott’s free email newsletter.

CHECK OUT Scott’s latest polls.

Question:

A proposal has been made that would require everyone entering the United States—including immigrants and visitors—to be tested for COVID and other health risks. Do you favor or oppose this proposal?

64% Strongly favor

20% Somewhat favor

5% Somewhat oppose

5% Strongly oppose

6% Not sure

Methodology

Generic Ballot: GOP 41% Dems 40%

Posted on November 9, 2021 | by Staff Writer

If the midterm elections were held today, 41% of Registered Voters would vote for the Republican from their Congressional District while 40% would vote for the Democrat. Those numbers are unchanged since mid-October. A Scott Rasmussen national survey found that 5% would vote for some other candidate while 13% are not sure.

The survey was conducted just prior to last week’s elections in Virginia. The survey is of Registered Voters rather than Likely Voters. In last week’s elections, conservative and Republican voters were more likely than others to cast a ballot. If that enthusiasm advantage continues into the midterm elections, the numbers suggest the GOP would win a sizable victory in 2022.

A Scott Rasmussen Election Night survey in Virginia showed that 81% of Virginia voters believe photo IDs should be required for voting; 71% of Youngkin voters believe you can support Trump policies without supporting Trump while 61% of McAuliffe voters disagree; and, 83% of Virginia voters agree that “America was founded on the ideals of freedom, equality, and self-governance.”

National voter surveys found that four key election reforms are supported by more than 80% of voters. These include requirements to remove people who have died or moved from voter registration lists; requiring all voters to show photo ID before casting a ballot; wanting all ballots received by Election Day; and, having all voting machines made in the United States.

On another topic, 40% of voters believe the worst of the pandemic is behind us while 30% believe the worst is yet to come. Optimism on this front has been growing over the past month.

Seventy-five percent (75%) of voters are close to resuming their normal life in terms of going out socially, traveling, and interacting with others in person. The hesitance of those who have been vaccinated to resume normal activities may be one factor driving economic challenges.

Currently 45% of voters believe the U.S. is in a recession. Large majorities have experienced sharp inflation and supply chain issues.

SIGN UP to receive Scott’s free email newsletter.

CHECK OUT Scott’s latest polls.

Question:

If elections for Congress were held today, would you vote for the Republican from your district, or the Democrat from your district?

41% Republican

40% Democrat

5% Other

13% Not sure

Methodology

71% Expect Quick Recovery From COVID with Minor Symptoms; 15% Do Not

Posted on November 8, 2021 | by Staff Writer

If they tested positive for COVID, 71% of voters think it’s likely they would recover quickly with only minor symptoms. A Scott Rasmussen national survey found that 15% do not expect such a quick recovery and another 15% are not sure.

Those totals include 41% who say such a minor impact is Very Likely and 5% who say it is Not at All likely.

Interestingly, there is no difference on this question between the vaccinated and the unvaccinated. Seventy-one percent (71%) of each group consider a quick recovery likely.

SIGN UP to receive Scott’s free email newsletter.

CHECK OUT Scott’s latest polls.

Question:

If you tested positive for COVID, how likely is it that you would recover quickly with only minor symptoms?

41% Very likely

30% Somewhat likely

10% Not very likely

5% Not at all likely

15% Not sure

Methodology

84% Say Asylum Seekers Who Don’t Return for Hearings Are Serious Problem

Posted on November 6, 2021 | by Staff Writer

When informed that approximately 10% of the asylum seekers released into the United States never return for their court hearings, 84% of voters consider that to be a serious problem. A Scott Rasmussen national survey found that 10% say it is not a serious problem and 6% are not sure.

Those totals include 57% who consider it a Very Serious problem and 2% who say it is Not at All Serious.

Some Republican political leaders have suggested that the number of asylum seekers who skip their hearings is much higher– perhaps topping 50%. The Washington Post and other media outlets have pushed back on such claims. A study published in the University of Pennsylvania Law Review reported that 83% of asylum seekers released into the country attended all their hearings.

However, even if the number who skip their hearings is only 10% (as suggested in the polling question), voters are concerned. Ninety-four percent (94%) of Republicans consider that to be a serious problem. So do 80% of Democrats and 79% of Independents. That view is shared by 86% of White voters, 84% of Black voters, and 78% of Hispanic voters.

SIGN UP to receive Scott’s free email newsletter.

CHECK OUT Scott’s latest polls.

Question:

Approximately 10% of the asylum seekers released into the United States never return for their court hearings. How serious a problem is this?

57% Very serious

27% Somewhat serious

8% Not very serious

2% Not at all serious

6% Not sure

Methodology

75% Close to Resuming Normal Life; Hesitancy Among the Vaccinated May Be Having Economic Impact

Posted on November 4, 2021 | by Staff Writer

Seventy-five percent (75%) of voters are close to resuming their normal life in terms of going out socially, traveling, and interacting with others in person. That’s up nine points from 66% in September.

A Scott Rasmussen national survey found that 22% say they are not close to resuming their normal life (down eight points).

Those totals include 39% who are Very Close to resuming their normal life. That’s up ten points since September. Just 6% who are Not at All close.

These results come amidst a renewed burst of optimism that we are putting the pandemic behind us.

Seventy-seven percent (77%) of White voters are close to resuming their normal life. So are 72% of Hispanic voters and 59% of Black voters.

Eighty-four percent (84%) of Republicans are close to resuming a normal life. So are 70% of Independent voters and 69% of Democrats.

However, GOP voters are much closer than other voters. Fifty-six percent (56%) of Republicans are Very Close to resuming their normal social interaction. Just 36% of Independents and 24% of Democrats have reached that point.

The hesitance of those who have been vaccinated to resume normal activities may be one factor driving economic challenges. Currently 45% of voters believe the U.S. is in a recession. Large majorities have experienced sharp inflation and supply chain issues.

Among those who have received the COVID vaccine, just 37% are Very Close to resuming normal social interaction. Among those who say they will never get vaccinated, that figure is 64%.

Among the vaccinated, 21% say they are not close to resuming normal activities.

SIGN UP to receive Scott’s free email newsletter.

CHECK OUT Scott’s latest polls.

Question 1:

Which worries you more: That the Biden administration will re-open society too quickly or that they will wait too long?

36% Too soon

38% Wait too long

26% Not sure

Question 2:

Some people have generally resumed their life and go out socially, travel, and interact with others in person. How close are you to resuming a somewhat normal life?

39% Very close

36% Somewhat close

16% Not very close

6% Not at all

4% Not sure

Methodology

81% Want All Voting Machines Made in US

Posted on November 2, 2021 | by Staff Writer

Eighty-one percent (81%) of voters want all voting machines made in the United States. A Scott Rasmussen national survey found that just 8% are opposed and 11% are not sure.

The survey also found that 88% want to see a requirement for states to remove people who have died or moved from voter registration lists; 85% want all voters to show photo ID before casting a ballot, and 82% want all ballots to be received by Election Day.

SIGN UP to receive Scott’s free email newsletter.

CHECK OUT Scott’s latest polls.

Question 1:

Please let me know if you favor or oppose each of the following:

Requiring voters to show photo ID before casting a ballot

65% Strongly favor

20% Somewhat favor

8% Somewhat oppose

4% Strongly oppose

4% Not sure

Requiring all mail-in ballots to be received by Election Day

61% Strongly favor

21% Somewhat favor

7% Somewhat oppose

6% Strongly oppose

5% Not sure

Requiring states to remove people who have died or moved from the voter registration lists

73% Strongly favor

15% Somewhat favor

6% Somewhat oppose

2% Strongly oppose

5% Not sure

Requiring all voting machines to be made in the United States

63% Strongly favor

18% Somewhat favor

4% Somewhat oppose

4% Strongly oppose

11% Not sure

Methodology

58% Say Those Seeking Asylum Should Be Detained At Border

Posted on November 1, 2021 | by Staff Writer

Fifty-eight percent (58%) of voters believe that those seeking asylum and waiting for their hearing should be detained at the border. A Scott Rasmussen national survey found that 24% disagree and think they should be released into the United States. Eighteen percent (18%) are not sure.

If asylum seekers are released into U.S. communities, 78% believe the federal government should be required to notify local officials.

Additionally, before sending asylum seekers to a state, 66% believe the federal government should be required to get permission from the governor. That view is shared by 80% of Republicans, 64% of Independents, and 55% of Democrats.

SIGN UP to receive Scott’s free email newsletter.

CHECK OUT Scott’s latest polls.

Question 1:

People who cross the Southern border say they are seeking asylum. Many are then sent to other communities across the country and told to return for a hearing on their asylum status. While waiting for their hearing, should these asylum seekers be released into the United States or detained at the border?

24% Release into the US

58% Detained at the border

18% Not sure

Question 2:

When the federal government sends asylum seekers to communities across the country, should they be required to notify local officials such as governors and mayors?

78% Yes

10% No

12% Not sure

Question 3:

Before sending asylum seekers to a state, should the federal government be required to get permission from the governor?

66% Yes

18% No

16% Not sure

Methodology

Biden: 43% Approve; 53% Disapprove

Posted on October 30, 2021 | by Staff Writer

Forty-three percent (43%) of voters nationwide now approve of the way President Biden is performing his job. That’s down four points from mid-October. However, eight of the last ten Scott Rasmussen national surveys have shown the president’s positive ratings all within 2 points of 45% in either direction.

The latest survey finds that 53% disapprove and 4% are not sure.

Those totals include just 19% of voters who Strongly Approve of the president’s performance while 40% Strongly Disapprove.

The president’s low job approval ratings come as the vast majority of Americans experience sharp inflation (77%) and supply chain issues (63%).

Democrats in Congress have offered various plans to pay for the Build Back Better plan. Several include providing with more access to personal and business financial information. This effort is strongly rejected by voters: 72%think the IRS collects too much personal information that should remain private. Rather than giving the agency more access, voters believe that more privacy protections are needed.

The Build Back Better plan has also included more than $10 billion in payments to illegal immigrants. Twenty-eight percent (28%) of voters favor that provision while 60% are opposed.

On a more basic level, 65% of voters believe the federal government is actively working to get more power and control over the lives of everyday Americans.

President Biden is seen as politically liberal by 55% of voters and moderate by 22%

SIGN UP to receive Scott’s free email newsletter.

CHECK OUT Scott’s latest polls.

Question 1:

Do you approve or disapprove of the way President Biden is performing his job?

19% Strongly approve

24% Somewhat approve

13% Somewhat disapprove

40% Strongly disapprove

4% Not sure

Question 2:

36% Trump policies

13% Traditional GOP

19% Sanders policies

22% Trad DEM

10% Not sure

Methodology

53% Say More Important to Protect Existing Medicare Programs Rather Than Add New Benefits; 34% Disagree

Posted on October 30, 2021 | by Staff Writer

Fifty-three percent (53%) of voters believe it is more important to provide funding that would protect the existing Medicare program rather than expanding Medicare by adding new benefits. A Scott Rasmussen national survey found that 34% disagree and think it is more important to add dental, vision, and hearing benefits.

Senior citizens, by a 64% to 22% margin, believe it is more important to shore up Medicare rather than expand it. A majority of Republicans, (57%), Democrats (51%), and Independents (52%) share that view.

Most traditional Democrats agree that the priority should be on protecting Medicare. Those who support policies like those of Senator Bernie Sanders are evenly divided.

SIGN UP to receive Scott’s free email newsletter.

CHECK OUT Scott’s latest polls.

Question:

The Medicare trust fund is projected to run out of money within approximately five years. Still, a proposal has been made to expand Medicare by adding dental, vision, and hearing benefits. Is it more important to provide funding that would protect the existing Medicare program or to expand Medicare by adding new benefits?

53% Provide funding to protect the existing program

30% Expand by adding new benefits

17% Not sure

Methodology

On Environmental Policy, 36% Say U.S. is a Good Role Model for the World to Follow; 40% Disagree

Posted on October 29, 2021 | by Staff Writer

When it comes to environmental policies, 36% of voters believe the United States a good role model for the rest of the world to follow. A Scott Rasmussen national survey found that 40% disagree and 24% are not sure.

Forty-two percent (42%) of Democrats believe the U.S. is a good role model along with 40% of Republicans. Just 27% of Independent voters agree.

SIGN UP to receive Scott’s free email newsletter.

CHECK OUT Scott’s latest polls.

Question:

Generally speaking, when it comes to environmental policies, is the United States a good role model for the rest of the world to follow?

36% Yes

40% No

24% Not sure

Methodology

57% Say Inflation is a Tax on the Poor; 23% Disagree

Posted on October 27, 2021 | by Staff Writer

Fifty-seven percent (57%) believe it is accurate to call inflation a tax on the poor. A Scott Rasmussen national survey found that 23% disagree and 20% are not sure.

Sixty-one percent (61%) of Republicans view inflation as a tax on the poor. So do 56% of Independent voters and 55% of Democrats. Fifty-nine percent (59%) of White voters share that view along with 56% of Hispanic voters and 50% of Black voters.

A survey conducted last month found that 59% of voters nationwide believe increased government spending leads to inflation. Only 14% disagree.

That survey also found that just 22% of voters want Congress and the President to increase federal spending next year. Thirty-nine percent (39%) want spending to be cut and 21% would like it to remain about the same. That finding reflects a marked change from a year ago when just 14% of voters wanted the government to stop spending more money.

SIGN UP to receive Scott’s free email newsletter.

CHECK OUT Scott’s latest polls.

Question:

Is it accurate to call inflation a tax on the poor?

57% Yes

23% No

20% Not sure

Methodology

54% Believe Warnings About Gov’t Shutdowns Are Scare Tactics Rather Than Legitimate Concern

Posted on October 25, 2021 | by Staff Writer

Warnings about government shutdowns have become a regular part of the budget process in official Washington. Fifty-four percent (54%) believe those warnings are generally scare tactics rather than legitimate concerns. A Scott Rasmussen national survey found that 31% take the opposite view and believe the warnings stem from legitimate concerns.

Sixty-four percent (64%) of Republicans see warnings about shutdowns as a scare tactic. So do 55% of Independent voters. Democrats are evenly divided.

SIGN UP to receive Scott’s free email newsletter.

CHECK OUT Scott’s latest polls.

Question 1:

Congressional budget battles often lead to warnings that the government will shut down if an agreement is not reached quickly. How worried are you about the possibility of a federal government shutdown?

20% Very worried

33% Somewhat worried

24% Not very worried

17% Not at all worried

6% Not sure

Question 2:

Generally speaking, are warnings about shutdowns based upon legitimate concerns or are they simply scare tactics?

31% Legitimate concerns

54% Scare tactic

15% Not sure

Methodology

The survey of 1,200 Registered Voters was conducted online by Scott Rasmussen on October 14-16, 2021. Field work for the survey was conducted by RMG Research, Inc. Certain quotas were applied, and the sample was lightly weighted by geography, gender, age, race, education, internet usage, and political party to reasonably reflect the nation’s population of Registered Voters. Other variables were reviewed to ensure that the final sample is representative of that population.

65% Believe Federal Government is Actively Working to Get More Power & Control Over lives of Everyday Americans

Posted on October 25, 2021 | by Staff Writer

Sixty-five percent (65%) of voters believe the federal government is actively working to get more power and control over the lives of everyday Americans. A Scott Rasmussen national survey found that 23% disagree and 12% are not sure.

Eighty-two percent (82%) of Republicans believe that the federal government is seeking such power and control. So do 64% of Independent voters and 49% of Democrats.

As on many issues, there is a substantial divide between the views of White Democrats and Black Democrats.

By a 62% to 23% margin, Black Democrats believe the federal government is actively working to get more power and control over the lives of everyday Americans.
However, by a narrow 46% to 42% margin, White Democrats disagree and don’t think that the government is actively seeking such power.

SIGN UP to receive Scott’s free email newsletter.

CHECK OUT Scott’s latest polls.

Question:

Is the following statement true or false: “The federal government is actively working to get more power and control over the lives of everyday Americans.”

65% True

23% False

12% Not sure

Methodology

Do Journalists Need a College Degree? 56% Think It Would Be Good to Hire High School Graduates and Train Them

Posted on October 25, 2021 | by Staff Writer

Currently, most news organizations require journalists to have a college degree. However, 56% of voters believe it would be a good idea for news organizations to try something different: hire high school graduates and train them to be reporters. A Scott Rasmussen national survey found that just 21% disagree and 23% are not sure.

Sixty percent (60%) of Democrats think hiring high school graduates would be a good idea. So do 56% of Republicans and 50% of Independent voters.

The concept was suggested recently in a post by Ed Morrissey.

SIGN UP to receive Scott’s free email newsletter.

CHECK OUT Scott’s latest polls.

Question:

Currently, most news organizations require journalists to have a college degree. Would it be a good idea for news organizations to hire high school graduates and train them to be reporters?

56% Yes

21% No

23% Not sure

Methodology

On Important National Decisions, 64% Trust Everyday Americans More Than Government Officials

Posted on October 24, 2021 | by Staff Writer

When it comes to important decisions about the nation’s future, 69% of voters trust everyday Americans more than government officials. A Scott Rasmussen national survey found that 22% disagree and 9% are not sure.

Seventy-eight percent (78%) of Republicans trust the people more than government officials. So do 69% of Independents and 60% of Democrats.

SIGN UP to receive Scott’s free email newsletter.

CHECK OUT Scott’s latest polls.

Methodology

The survey of 1,200 Registered Voters was conducted online by Scott Rasmussen on September 30-October 2, 2021. Field work for the survey was conducted by RMG Research, Inc. Certain quotas were applied, and the sample was lightly weighted by geography, gender, age, race, education, internet usage, and political party to reasonably reflect the nation’s population of Registered Voters. Other variables were reviewed to ensure that the final sample is representative of that population.

The margin of sampling error for the full sample is +/- 2.8 percentage points.

73% See Federal Government As Special Interest Group That Looks Out Primarily For Its Own Interests

Posted on October 23, 2021 | by Staff Writer

Seventy-three percent (73%) of voters agree that the federal government is a special interest group that looks out primarily for its own interests. A Scott Rasmussen national survey found that 17% disagree and 10% are not sure.

Those totals include 40% who Strongly Agree and 5% who Strongly Disagree.

Seventy-five percent (75%) of Republicans see the federal government as a special interest group along with 74% of Democrats and 71% of Independents.

Seventy-eight percent (78%) of White voters share that view. So do 65% of Black voters and 62% of Hispanic voters.

SIGN UP to receive Scott’s free email newsletter.

CHECK OUT Scott’s latest polls.

Methodology

The margin of sampling error for the full sample is +/- 2.8 percentage points.

70% Believe America Founded on Noble Ideals of Freedom, Equality, and Self-Governance

Posted on October 22, 2021 | by Staff Writer

Seventy percent (70%) of voters believe that America was founded on the noble ideals of freedom, equality, and self-governance. They recognize our nation has a tragic history of racial injustice, but believe we have made and continue to make progress.

A Scott Rasmussen national survey found that 17% disagree and believe the nation was founded upon the ideas of racial oppression and white supremacy. They want us to reject the system of government created by the founders of our nation.

Eighty-one percent (81%) of Republicans believe our nation was founded upon noble ideals. So do 64% of Independent voters and 61% of Democrats. That positive view is shared by 76% of White voters, 62% of Hispanic voters and 48% of Black voters.

While Americans overwhelmingly believe that America was founded upon noble ideals, just 51% believe that is how history is being taught in school these days. Eighteen percent (18%) believe students are being taught that our nation was founded upon the views of racial oppression and white supremacy.

SIGN UP to receive Scott’s free email newsletter.

CHECK OUT Scott’s latest polls.

Methodology

The survey of 1,000 Registered Voters was conducted online by Scott Rasmussen on October 9-10, 2021. Field work for the survey was conducted by RMG Research, Inc. Certain quotas were applied, and the sample was lightly weighted by geography, gender, age, race, education, internet usage, and political party to reasonably reflect the nation’s population of Registered Voters. Other variables were reviewed to ensure that the final sample is representative of that population.

The margin of sampling error for the full sample is +/- 3.1 percentage points.

55% See Biden as Politically Liberal; 22% Say Moderate; 10% Conservative

Posted on October 22, 2021 | by Staff Writer

Fifty-five percent (55%) of voters see President Biden as politically liberal while 22% him as a moderate. A Scott Rasmussen national survey found that 10% see the president as politically conservative while 13% are not sure.

From a different perspective, 40% see the president as a progressive Democrat while 34% see him as a traditional Democrat.

Most Republicans (53%) see President Biden as a progressive Democrat. However, a plurality (48%) of Democrats see the president as a traditional Democrat. A plurality (38%) of Independent voters are not sure.

SIGN UP to receive Scott’s free email newsletter.

CHECK OUT Scott’s latest polls.

Question 1:

Shifting to a different topic… In political terms, is President Biden liberal, moderate, or conservative?

35% Very liberal

20% Somewhat liberal

22% Moderate

5% Somewhat conservative

5% Very conservative

13% Not sure

Question 2:

Do you consider President Biden to be a progressive Democrat or a traditional Democrat?

40% Progressive Democrat

34% Traditional Democrat

26% Neither

Methodology

The survey of 1,200 Registered Voters was conducted online by Scott Rasmussen on October 11-13, 2021. Field work for the survey was conducted by RMG Research, Inc. Certain quotas were applied, and the sample was lightly weighted by geography, gender, age, race, education, internet usage, and political party to reasonably reflect the nation’s population of Registered Voters. Other variables were reviewed to ensure that the final sample is representative of that population.

The margin of sampling error for the full sample is +/- 2.8 percentage points.

70% Believe Anybody Willing to Work Can Find a Job

Posted on October 22, 2021 | by Staff Writer

Seventy percent (70%) of voters believe that just about anybody who is willing to work can find a job. A Scott Rasmussen national survey found that 19% disagree and 11% are not sure.

A majority of every measured demographic group believes there are jobs available for all who want one. That includes 82% of Republicans, 66% of Independents, and 61% of Democrats.

SIGN UP to receive Scott’s free email newsletter.

CHECK OUT Scott’s latest polls.

Methodology

The margin of sampling error for the full sample is +/- 2.8 percentage points.

77% Say It’s Possible To Love Someone Without Approving of Their Lifestyle

Posted on October 22, 2021 | by Staff Writer

Seventy-seven percent (77%) of voters believe it is possible to love someone without approving of their lifestyle. A Scott Rasmussen national survey found that 14% disagree and 9% are not sure.

That view is widely shared across all measured demographic groups.

Additionally, 60% believe it is possible to support the policies advocated by Donald Trump without supporting Donald Trump. On that question, 29% disagree and 11% are not sure.

Eighty-one percent (81%) of Republicans believe it is possible. So do Independent voters, by a 57% to 26% margin. However, a modest plurality of Democrats (48%) say it is not possible to support Trump’s policies without supporting Trump himself.

Among those who prefer Trump-like policies, 84% believe it is possible to separate the policies from the man. Just 13% disagree.

SIGN UP to receive Scott’s free email newsletter.

CHECK OUT Scott’s latest polls.

Question 1:

Is it possible to love someone without approving of their lifestyle?

77% Yes

14% No

9% Not sure

Question 2:

Is it possible to support the policies advocated by Donald Trump without supporting Donald Trump?

60% Yes

29% No

11% Not sure

Methodology

62% Favor Banning Use of Federal Funds for Research Conducted By Chinese Government or Chinese Communist Party

Posted on October 22, 2021 | by Staff Writer

Sixty-two percent (62%) of voters favor banning the use of federal funds to support research conducted by the Chinese government or the Chinese Communist Party. A Scott Rasmussen national survey found that 24% oppose that policy and 15% are not sure.

Those totals include 40% who Strongly Favor the proposal and 11% who are Strongly Opposed.

The ban is favored by 68% of Republicans, 61% of Independents, and 56% of Democrats.

SIGN UP to receive Scott’s free email newsletter.

CHECK OUT Scott’s latest polls.

Question:

Another proposal would ban the use of federal funds to support research conducted by the Chinese government or the Chinese Communist Party. Do you favor or oppose this proposal?

40% Strongly favor

22% Somewhat favor

13% Somewhat oppose

11% Strongly oppose

15% Not sure

Methodology

Biden’s Approval Stabilizes: 47% Approve, 48% Disapprove

Posted on October 21, 2021 | by Staff Writer

Forty-seven percent (47%) of voters nationwide now approve of the way President Biden is performing his job. That’s up two points since late September but down a point from mid-September. A Scott Rasmussen national survey found that 48% disapprove and 5% are not sure.

While the president’s numbers have stabilized, opinions are stronger on the negative side. Just 22% of voters Strongly Approve of the president’s performance, down seven points from a week ago and the lowest level yet measured. Thirty-five percent (35%)Strongly Disapprove.

The president’s approval ratings are underwater on five key issues facing the nation– Immigration (-18), Taxes and Government Spending (-13), the Economy (-5), National Security (-4), and Healthcare (-1). The president received a net positive approval rating only on his handling of COVID (+8).

It is perhaps not surprising that the president receives such negative marks on taxes and government spending as his budget plan is being debated in Congress.

The plan includes some popular provisions but many other that are problematic for voters.

The Administration has proposed vastly expanding the level of personal banking information reported to the IRS. However, 72% of voters think the IRS already collects too much personal information that should remain private. Rather than giving the IRS more access, these voters believe that more privacy protections are needed.
The initial plan for giving the IRS access to more banking information was opposed by 73% of voters.
To receive federal benefits, 78% think those who are able should be required to work. The president’s plan opposes such work requirements.
Another provision would provide tax credits of up to $50,000 for print journalists. Just 19% of voters favor that provision.

Beyond the budget battles, 67% of voters consider the situation at the border to be a crisis. Just 22% say Biden has done a good or excellent job dealing with it.

Perhaps a deeper problem for the president is that his plan envisions Washington as the engine of change. However, 64% of voters believe positive change in America begins outside the political system.

SIGN UP to receive Scott’s free email newsletter.

CHECK OUT Scott’s latest polls.

Question:

Do you approve or disapprove of the way President Biden is performing his job?

22% Strongly approve

25% Somewhat approve

13% Somewhat disapprove

35% Strongly disapprove

5% Not sure

Methodology

The margin of sampling error for the full sample is +/- 2.8 percentage points.