… Research by a Brown University political scientist, Michael Tesler, shows that the mere mention of Mr. Obama, the first African-American president, polarizes the public along racial lines on issues ranging from health care to how people feel about his dog, Bo. The Ferguson controversy may end up being as […] Read more »
Why the police are so politically powerful
… Police agencies have long been unusually politically powerful. Politicians never want to purposely alienate anyone, but they are particularly wary of crossing the cops. It’s clear why. First and foremost, the police are popular. … Americans have more confidence in the police than they do in organized religion. … […] Read more »
The Frustration Doctrine
Americans’ confidence in American leadership is flagging to such a degree that it poses a critical threat to our democracy, particularly as moneyed interests seek to manipulate the malaise and stir policy and politician away from principle and toward profit. CONT. Charles M. Blow, New York Times Read more »
Public Faith in Congress Falls Again, Hits Historic Low
Americans’ confidence in Congress has sunk to a new low. Seven percent of Americans say they have “a great deal” or “quite a lot” of confidence in Congress as an American institution, down from the previous low of 10% in 2013. … Americans’ current confidence in Congress is not only […] Read more »
Personal Safety Top Reason Americans Own Guns Today
President Barack Obama has made strengthening gun control one of his top priorities this year, focusing on expanding background checks and a partial assault weapons ban. Gallup finds that those who already own firearms mention personal safety/protection most frequently as a reason for ownership (60%), followed by hunting, at 36%. […] Read more »
24% of Young Black Men Say Police Dealings Unfair
Almost one in four black men under age 35, 24%, say the police have treated them unfairly during the last 30 days. Among blacks, this percentage drops to as low as 10% among women 55 and older. [cont.] Frank Newport, Gallup Read more »