The American public’s broad concerns about the role of the federal government in their lives have evolved into, I believe, the most important issue in our current political environment. Debates over the role of government have defined the American Experience going back to the nation’s founding — but now more […] Read more »
Notes on Excessive Wealth Disorder
… To be fair, the general public has never bought into Keynesian economics; as far as I know, most voters, if asked, will always say that the budget deficit should be reduced. In November 1936, just after FDR’s reelection, Gallup asked voters whether the new administration should balance the budget; […] Read more »
Social Security and American Public Opinion
Social Security is a mainstay of older Americans’ financial wherewithal, and — long considered the “third rail” of American politics — a system Americans greatly value even as it faces an uncertain future. … The dominance of Social Security as retirees’ most important source of income has been consistent since […] Read more »
Healthcare Once Again Tops List of Americans’ Worries
Fifty-five percent of Americans worry “a great deal” about the availability and affordability of healthcare, topping Gallup’s list of potentially worrisome issues for the fifth straight year. A majority of Americans have said they worry a great deal about healthcare in each of the 18 years the question has been […] Read more »
Looking to the Future, Public Sees an America in Decline on Many Fronts
When Americans peer 30 years into the future, they see a country in decline economically, politically and on the world stage. While a narrow majority of the public (56%) say they are at least somewhat optimistic about America’s future, hope gives way to doubt when the focus turns to specific […] Read more »
Americans Most Satisfied With Nation’s Military, Security
Two years into Donald Trump’s presidency, Americans remain most satisfied with the state of U.S. military strength and preparedness (78%) and the nation’s security from terrorism (68%), among a list of 22 policy areas. At the other end of the spectrum, the public is least satisfied with the nation’s campaign […] Read more »