Detroit’s Troubles Driving Attention to Economy, Bailout Opposition Rises
With the presidential election behind them, Americans have turned their attention back to the nation’s economy, though nearly half say they feel angry when seeing or hearing such reports.
Never-Ending Story: Palin and Hillary Still Making News
The country’s weakened economy rivaled the presidential transition as top story of the week while much coverage focused on two women who ran losing campaigns for the executive branch.
When Technology Fails
Need help in setting up that new computer? Feel frustrated when your cellphone acts up? According to a new Pew Internet Project survey, you are far from alone.
High Hopes
Barack Obama won only 53% of the vote on Election Day, but he is getting a landslide greeting from the American public with voters giving Obama better grades for his conduct during the campaign than any presidential candidate since 1988.
Young Voters in the 2008 Election
This year, 66% of those under age 30 voted for Barack Obama making the disparity between young voters and other age groups larger than in any presidential election since exit polling began in 1972.
High Marks for Campaign, High Bar for Obama
A week after the election, voters are feeling good about themselves, the presidential campaign and Barack Obama. Looking ahead, they have high expectations for the Obama administration, with two-thirds predicting that he will have a successful first term.
Global Media Celebrate Obama Victory — But Cautious Too
“GOBAMA!” gushed Britain’s Daily Mirror the day after Barack Obama’s electoral victory. Other newspapers around the world were scarcely less enthusiastic but notes of concern and discord were also registered.
Gay Marriage at the Ballot Box
Prior to Massachusetts becoming the first state to legalize same-sex marriage in 2003, only three states had passed constitutional amendments prohibiting the practice. With amendments in California, Arizona and Florida passing this November, the number of states now stands at 29. A graphic charts the recent history of voter-approved state bans on gay marriage.
Post-Election Perspectives
In remarks at a dinner at the Newseum hosted by the Roper Center, Pew Research Center President Andrew Kohut analyzed the voter preferences revealed in exit and post-election polls and their implications for the incoming administration.
Few Will Miss Campaign News
The 2008 campaign set records for interest and will long be remembered (in fact, 23% of Americans are saving a post-election newspaper), but fully 82% of Americans will have no problem taking election news out of their lives. Also, Bill O’Reilly comes in as American’s favorite — and least favorite — campaign commentator.
