Public Divided over Same-Sex Marriage Rulings
Most Americans are aware of the ruling and its implications.
As Supreme Court Weighs Voting Rights Act Changes, No Racial Gap in Voting Problems
By Andrew Kohut In the next several weeks the Supreme Court is expected to rule on the constitutionality of the requirement that several states, mostly in the South, get “pre-clearance” from the Justice Department before they make any changes to their election laws. The requirement was part of the Voting Rights Act of 1965, which […]
Nonvoters: Who They Are, What They Think
A sizable minority of adults choose not to vote or are unable to vote. They will affect the outcome of the presidential election by their absence. Who are they?
Presidential Race Dead Even; Romney Maintains Turnout Edge
As the presidential campaign enters its final week, the race is even among likely voters: 47% favor Barack Obama and the same percentage supports Mitt Romney. While Romney holds a turnout advantage, Obama leads on many personal characteristics and issues.
Broad Support for Photo ID Voting Requirements
Proposals to require voters to show photo identification before being allowed to vote draw overwhelming support. By 77% to 20%, voters favor a requirement that those voting be required to show photo ID. Opinion about this is little changed from six years ago, when 80% of voters supported voter photo ID requirements.
Obama Expected to Win First Presidential Debate
Heading into Wednesday’s first presidential debate, voters expect that Barack Obama will do a better job than Mitt Romney. About half (51%) say Obama will do the better job in the debate, while 29% say Romney will. Most voters plan to watch
For Voters, It’s Still the Economy
As Barack Obama and Mitt Romney prepare for their first debate on Oct. 3, the issues at the top of the voters’ agenda have changed little since 2008. Fully 87% of registered voters say that the economy will be very important to their vote, while 83% say jobs will be very important to their vote.
Where the Public Stands on Government Assistance, Taxes and the Presidential Candidates
When the national conversation focuses on class, the social safety net and the distribution of wealth as it has in the past week, the public sees clear differences between Barack Obama and Mitt Romney, and Obama has an overall advantage.
Medicare Voucher Plan Remains Unpopular
A proposal to shift Medicare to a voucher system, part of a Paul Ryan plan approved by the House last year, remains unpopular. Both Ryan and Democrat Joe Biden get negative marks as vice presidential candidates.
Obama Holds Lead; Romney Trails on Most Issues
Despite the stagnant economy and broad dissatisfaction with national conditions, Barack Obama holds a significant lead over Mitt Romney. Obama is favored by a 50% to 43% margin among registered voters. Romney loses ground on issue of which candidate can best improve the economy.
