Public Sees Fair Fight
Every week since November, 2007, the most covered news story has been the election, and the public has taken notice. Almost half of Americans (47%) listed it as the single news story they were following more closely than any other, up from 10% last November.
Mixed Signals on Energy Policy
The public remains conflicted in its approach toward energy and the environment, but 55% favor more conservation and regulation compared with 35% who support expanded exploration. Fully 90% favor tighter auto fuel standards.
Getting to Know Them
If they turn out to be their party’s nominees, both Barack Obama and John McCain need to educate voters about themselves in some pretty basic, and challenging, ways.
Obama Has the Lead, but Potential Problems Too
Obama has moved out to a broad-based advantage over Clinton in the national Democratic primary contest. Public attitudes about the war in Iraq have turned more positive, a favorable development for McCain.
NY Times’ McCain Story Draws Public Interest – And Disapproval
By a nearly two-to-one margin those familiar with the Times’ article on the Arizona senator’s ties to a lobbyist think the paper was wrong to publish it.
In November, Will Age Matter?
John McCain’s age has remained notably absent as a campaign issue, but earlier polling data suggest it could become a big issue for the Arizona senator come November.
Campaign Seen as Less Negative than 2004 Contest
The public remains highly engaged in the election, with no increase in campaign fatigue. Also, with the Democratic race still in question, a Gore endorsement would be more influential than one from Edwards.
Economic Discontent Deepens As Inflation Concerns Rise
Public views of the U.S. economy, already quite negative, have plummeted since January. Just 17% currently rate the nation’s economy as excellent or good, down from 26% last month.
Obama Inspiring but Inexperienced, Clinton Prepared to Lead but “Hard to Like”
While Democrats and independents who lean Democratic believe Clinton is prepared to lead, Obama has a clear lead on three positive campaign themes: inspiration, change, and honesty.
Young Voters in the 2008 Presidential Primaries
Beyond the vote, the exit polls point to interesting differences — and similarities — between younger and older Democratic voters.
