Majorities of adults see decline of union membership as bad for the U.S. and working people
The share of U.S. workers who belonged to a union in 2023 stood at 10%, down from 1983 when 20.1% of American workers were union members.
Numbers, Facts and Trends Shaping Your World
The share of U.S. workers who belonged to a union in 2023 stood at 10%, down from 1983 when 20.1% of American workers were union members.
57% of Americans say they would prefer to live in a community where houses are larger and farther away from amenities — compared to 42% who say the opposite.
Democrats hold the edge on many issues, but more Americans agree with Republicans on the economy, crime and immigration. Inflation remains the top concern for Republicans and Republican-leaning independents, with 77% saying it is a very big problem. For Democrats and Democratic leaners, gun violence is the top concern, with about 81% saying it is a very big problem.
Americans are split on the size and role of the government, though reducing the budget deficit is a higher priority than it was last year.
Americans now see reducing the budget deficit as a higher priority for the president and Congress to address than in recent years. But strengthening the economy continues to be the public’s top policy priority.
As Election Day approaches, here’s a look at voters’ issue priorities, based mainly on a Pew Research Center survey conducted Oct. 10-16.
Americans’ views of the economy remain negative; most say prices have gotten worse while job availability has improved.
While the economy remains the dominant issue in this fall’s midterm elections, the issue of abortion has increased markedly in importance. More voters continue to view their midterm vote as an expression of opposition to Joe Biden than support for him. But across both parties, more voters now say Biden is not much of a factor in their vote.
Americans show more support than opposition for two infrastructure bills; majorities favor raising taxes on large businesses and high-income households.
Following the passage of a second stimulus package in December, 79% of U.S. adults say another economic assistance package will be necessary.
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