The Debt Ceiling Showdown – Where the Public Stands
The nation is headed toward a possible government default on Aug. 2 if no agreement is reached to raise the debt ceiling.
Twitterers Tackle Murdoch’s Tabloid Scandal
The British phone hacking scandal involving Rupert Murdoch’s media empire grabbed the attention of the Twitter universe last week in a way very few stories have. And what was being said was not kind to the beleaguered Australian magnate.
U.S. Status as World’s Superpower Challenged by Rise of China
The U.S. image abroad is more favorable than it was in the Bush years, but it now faces a new challenge: doubts about America’s superpower status and the belief that China either will replace or already has replaced the United States as the world’s leading superpower.
Casey Anthony Verdict Top Story for Public and Social Networkers
Americans followed news about the verdict in the Casey Anthony murder trial more closely than other top stories, but they also kept a watch on news about the struggling economy and talks in Washington over raising the federal debt limit.
Debt Talks and Suprise Verdict Top Media Agenda
The Casey Anthony trial was the No. 1 story on both network news and cable news.
Public Now Divided on Debt Limit Debate
While a plurality of Americans still believe raising the debt limit is a greater concern than the prospect of a government default, the percentage of those worried more about a default has grown since May.
The Mexican-American Boom: Births Overtake Immigration
Births have overtaken immigration as the main driver of the dynamic growth in the U.S. Hispanic population, especially among the largest of all Hispanic groups — Mexican-Americans.
35% of American Adults Own a Smartphone
Smartphones have captured a significant share of the cellphone market in the U.S. and a quarter of owners say they go on line mostly using their device.
Public Wants Changes in Entitlements, Not Changes in Benefits
The public sees the need for changes to improve the performance and finances of Social Security, Medicare and Medicaid but does not support reductions in benefits. Republicans have divisions in their ranks on entitlement reforms.
Interest in Campaign News On Par With 2007
While the focus this year has been on the GOP’s race, Democrats express about as much interest in 2012 candidates as do Republicans.
