More See “Too Much” Religious Talk by Politicians
A new survey finds signs of public uneasiness with the mixing of religion and politics. The number of people who say there has been too much religious talk by political leaders stands at an all-time high since the Pew Research Center began asking the question more than a decade ago.
As Gas Prices Pinch, Support for Oil and Gas Production Grows
At a time of rising gas prices, more Americans continue to view the development of alternative energy sources as a higher priority than the increased production of oil, coal and natural gas, but the gap has narrowed considerably over the past year.
Little Support for U.S. Intervention in Syrian Conflict
Most Americans say the U.S. does not have a responsibility to intervene in the conflict in Syria and oppose using military options to protect anti-government forces. However, a majority are concerned about the possibility of Iran developing nuclear weapons and worry that the U.S. will wait too long to act.
Romney Leads GOP Contest, Trails in Matchup with Obama
Mitt Romney has retaken a significant lead nationally in the race for the Republican presidential nomination, even as he has fallen further behind Barack Obama in a general election matchup. Obama’s job approval rating has reached 50% for the first time since last May, shortly after the killing of Osama bin Laden.
GOP Race Is Rallying Democrats
Currently, 49% of Democrats say that as they learn more about the GOP candidates, their impression of Obama is getting better. Just 36% of Democrats expressed this view in December, before the Republican primaries began.
For the Public, It’s Not about Class Warfare, But Fairness
Income inequality has become a major issue in the presidential campaign.
Colleges Viewed Positively, But Conservatives Express Doubts
Americans generally think that colleges and universities have a positive impact on the country, however, conservative Republicans are skeptical of colleges’ effects on the country.
Public Spreads Blame for Rising Gasoline Prices
While 18% say President Obama or his administration are most to blame, about as many (14%) volunteer the oil companies or domestic oil producers. Roughly one-in-ten (11%) mostly blame Iran, the upheaval in the Middle East or the threat of war in the region.
Public Views of the Divide between Religion and Politics
Recent comments by presidential candidate Rick Santorum have brought renewed attention to the role of religion in politics. In both 2010 and 2008, narrow majorities said that churches and other houses of worship should keep out of political matters rather than express their views on social and political questions.
Auto Bailout Now Backed, Stimulus Divisive
Public support for government loans to major U.S. automakers are viewed more positively today than in the fall of 2009, but there has been less change in opinions about other major economic policies such as the federal loans to banks and financial institutions during the 2008 financial crisis and President Obama’s economic stimulus plan.
