Showing 1 – 50 of 1,151 results.
Curated
Simple Crosstabs
2015 Chicago Council Survey of American Public Opinion and U.S. Foreign Policy (ICPSR 36437)
Released/updated on: 2016-07-29
Geographic coverage: United States
The Chicago Council Surveys are part of a long-running series of public opinion surveys conducted by The Chicago Council on Global Affairs beginning in 1974. They were conducted quadrennially from 1974 to 2002, biennially from 2002 to 2014, and are now conducted annually. The surveys are designed to investigate the opinions and attitudes of the general public on matters related to foreign policy, and to define the parameters of public opinion within which decision-makers must operate. This public opinion study of the United States focused on respondents' opinions of the United States' leadership role in the world and the challenges the country faces domestically and internationally. Data were collected on a wide range of international topics, including: United States' relations with other countries, role in foreign affairs, possible threats to vital interests in the next ten years, foreign policy goals, situations that might justify the use of United States troops in other parts of the world, international trade, United States' participation in potential treaties, U.S. policy towards Russia in Ukraine, the embargo on Cuba and the effects of renewed diplomatic relations with Havana, views of the nuclear deal with Iran and what effects that deal is likely to have, and United States' relations with allies in Asia. Respondents were also asked their opinion on domestic issues including climate change, measures to improve the United States' economic competitiveness, and their views on US immigration policy. Demographic information collected includes age, gender, race/ethnicity, marital status, left-right political self-placement, political affiliation, employment status, highest level of education, and religious preference, household income, state of residence, and living quarters ownership status.
Curated
Simple Crosstabs
2016 Chicago Council Survey of American Public Opinion on U.S. Foreign Policy (ICPSR 36806)
Released/updated on: 2018-04-13
Geographic coverage: United States
The 2016 Chicago Council Survey continues the Chicago Council on Global Affairs' series of investigations into American public opinion on US foreign policy. These studies were conducted quadrennially from 1974 to 2002, biennially from 2002 to 2014, and are now conducted annually. They are designed to investigate the opinions and attitudes of the general public on matters related to foreign policy, and to define the parameters of public opinion within which decision-makers must operate. This public opinion study of the United States focused on respondents' opinions of the United States' leadership role in the world and the challenges the country faces domestically and internationally. Data were collected on a wide range of international topics, including: United States' relations with other countries, role in foreign affairs, possible threats to vital interests in the next ten years, foreign policy goals, international trade, the United States' participation in potential treaties, the United States' commitment to NATO, the basing of American troops abroad, policy towards the conflict in Syria, and the United States' relations in Asia. Respondents were also asked their opinion on domestic issues including climate change and US immigration policy. Demographic information collected includes age, gender, race/ethnicity, marital status, left-right political self-placement, political affiliation, employment status, highest level of education, religious preference, household income, state of residence, living quarters ownership status, and specifics about the metropolitan area in which they live.
Curated
Simple Crosstabs
2017 Chicago Council Survey of American Public Opinion on U.S. Foreign Policy (ICPSR 37970)
Released/updated on: 2021-06-21
Geographic coverage: United States
The 2017 Chicago Council Survey continues the Chicago Council on Global Affairs' series of investigations into American public opinion on United States foreign policy. These studies were conducted quadrennially from 1974 to 2002, biennially from 2002 to 2014, and are now conducted annually. They are designed to investigate the opinions and attitudes of the general public on matters related to foreign policy, and to define the parameters of public opinion within which decision-makers must operate. This public opinion study of the United States focused on respondents' opinions of the United States' leadership role in the world and the challenges the country faces domestically and internationally. Data were collected on a wide range of international topics, including: United States' relations with other countries, role in foreign affairs, possible threats to vital interests in the next ten years, foreign policy goals, international trade, the United States' participation in potential treaties, the United States' commitment to NATO, the basing of American troops abroad, policy towards the conflict in Syria, and the United States' relations with other countries. Respondents were also asked their opinion on US institutions, the US president, and federal government programs. Demographic information collected includes age, gender, race/ethnicity, marital status, left-right political self-placement, political affiliation, employment status, highest level of education, religious preference, household income, state of residence, and living quarters ownership status.
Curated
Partially restricted
Simple Crosstabs
21st Century Americanism: Nationally Representative Survey of the United States Population, 2004 (ICPSR 27601)
Released/updated on: 2015-04-02
Geographic coverage: United States
Time period: 2004-07-12--2004-10-08
The 21st Century Americanism survey was conducted to study (1) the multidimensional nature of American identity ("Americanism"); (2) resentment among Whites toward immigrants, Latinos, and Asians, fueled by perceptions that these groups violate the cherished norms that constitute American identity ("symbolic nativism"); (3) how perceptions of discrimination affect the process of "becoming American" among ethnic minorities ("reactive ethnicity"); and (4) the relationships among these issues and public opinion on policies that address ethnic change. The data collection began in July 2004 and was completed by October 2004. This nationally representative random-digit dial telephone survey has 2,800 respondents and includes oversamples of Blacks, Latinos, and Asians in the United States. It contains questions that allow for the examination of the causes and consequences of two facets of American identity: (1) how people define the normative content of American identity ("identity content"); and (2) the extent to which people think of themselves primarily as American rather than primarily as a member of a pan-ethnic (i.e., Latino or Asian) or national origin group ("identity attachment"). The survey can be used to test hypotheses regarding whether the alleged traditional consensus on what it means to be American is breaking down, or whether people are increasingly rejecting an American identity and instead prioritizing pan-ethnic or national origin identities. It can also be used to examine how these aspects of one's identity affect political attitudes and behaviors, such as trust in government, voting, and one's sense of obligation to the national community. Demographic variables include gender, age, country of origin, United States citizenship status, race, Hispanic origin, and language and educational attainment. Variables focusing on economic characteristics include employment status and household income.
Curated
ABC News Economy Poll, October 1987 (ICPSR 8887)
Released/updated on: 2006-12-05
Geographic coverage: United States
The nation's economy was the topic of this poll. Respondents were asked if they thought the economy was getting better or worse, whether they thought they would be better off financially one year from now, if they planned to spend more or less money than last year at Christmas, and whether stock market prices affected them personally. Additional questions related to the impact and causes of the recent fall in stock prices, the federal budget deficit, and the ways in which the Congress and Ronald Reagan were and should be working to reduce it. Demographic data on respondents are included.
Curated
ABC News 'Good Morning America' Five State Poll, October-November 1988 (ICPSR 9185)
Released/updated on: 2008-12-05
Geographic coverage: United States
Time period: 1988-10-29--1988-11-01
Conducted shortly before the November 1988 general election, this data collection focused on the presidential campaign. Respondents in five states were asked if they were registered to vote, if they thought things in their home states and in the country as a whole were moving in the right direction, if they had favorable or unfavorable opinions of George Bush and Michael Dukakis, which ticket (Bush/Quayle or Dukakis/Bentsen) they would vote for if the election were being held that day, and the strength of their support for the candidates named. Respondents in Part 2 (Texas) also were asked which Senate candidate (Beau Boulter or Lloyd Bentsen) they would vote for if the election were held that day. In Parts 1-4 respondents" opinions were solicited on the importance of certain issues in deciding how they would vote for president. These issues included the national economy, foreign policy, drugs, farm policy, health care, the environment, and whether Dukakis or Bush would do a better job addressing these issues. In Part 5 (Pennsylvania) respondents were queried about the applicability of several descriptive statements (e.g., he is a strong leader, he has good judgment, he has the right kind of experience to be president) to the two presidential candidates. Background information on respondents includes political alignment, 1984 presidential vote choice, education, age, race, income, sex, and state/region of residence.
Curated
ABC News Kathleen Willey Poll #1, March 1998 (ICPSR 2511)
Released/updated on: 2006-11-13
Geographic coverage: United States
This special topic poll, fielded on March 16, 1998, sought respondents' views on the presidency and on former White House volunteer Kathleen Willey's charges that President Bill Clinton forced himself on her sexually at a private meeting in 1993. Respondents were asked to rate Clinton in the areas of honesty, personal moral and ethical standards, ability to understand the people, leadership, and ability to keep the economy strong. Those queried were also asked whether they believed Willey's accusations, and whether the public needed to know the truth about her accusations. A series of questions addressed the recent allegations of sexual misconduct facing Clinton. Topics covered the alleged affair with former White House intern Monica Lewinsky, whether Clinton lied under oath when questioned about the scandals, whether he had demonstrated a pattern of sexual misconduct, and the possible punishments that might be imposed upon Clinton if he were found guilty of any wrongdoing. Background information on respondents includes sex and political party.
Curated
ABC News Kosovo Peace Poll #1, June 1999 (ICPSR 2774)
Released/updated on: 1999-08-20
Geographic coverage: United States
This special topic poll, fielded June 6-7, 1999, sought respondents' views on the peace agreement reached between the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) and Serbia, and on a series of political issues pertinent to the United States. Those queried were asked for their opinions on the United States' commitment of 7,000 ground troops as part of a larger NATO peacekeeping force in Serbia, the outcome of the conflict, whether it was right for the United States to become involved, and whether Serbian leader Slobodan Milosevic should be put on trial for war crimes. Respondents were also asked for their opinions of President Bill Clinton, Vice President Al Gore, the United States Congress, the Republican and Democratic parties, Texas Governor George W. Bush, former president of the American Red Cross and presidential hopeful Elizabeth Dole, First Lady Hillary Clinton, and former New Jersey Senator Bill Bradley. Their views were sought on which political party they trusted to do a better job in the areas of crime, foreign affairs, the economy, and encouraging high moral standards. Given a possible match between Gore and Bush for president in the 2000 election, respondents were asked for whom they would vote. They were also asked for their vote choice given a Republican primary or caucus for president in 2000 with candidates Bush, Dole, Arizona Senator John McCain, businessman Steve Forbes, New Hampshire Senator Bob Smith, former Vice President and Indiana Senator Dan Quayle, conservative commentator Pat Buchanan, former Tennessee Governor Lamar Alexander, Ohio Congressman John Kasich, Family Research Council president Gary Bauer, and radio show host Alan Keyes. Finally, given a Democratic primary or caucus for president in 2000 with candidates Gore, Bradley, and Reverend Jesse Jackson, respondents were asked to indicate their vote. Background information on respondents includes age, race, sex, education, political party, voter registration status, and income.
Curated
ABC News Listening to America Poll, May 1996 (ICPSR 6820)
Released/updated on: 2009-10-29
Geographic coverage: United States
This special topic poll, conducted April 30 to May 6, 1996, is part of a continuing series of monthly surveys that solicit public opinion on the presidency and on a range of other political and social issues. This poll sought Americans' views on the most important problems facing the United States, their local communities and their own families. Respondents rated the public schools, crime, and drug problems at the national and local levels, their level of optimism about their own future and that of the country, and the reasons they felt that way. Respondents were asked whether they were better off financially than their parents were at their age, whether they expected their own children to be better off financially than they were, and whether the American Dream was still possible for most people. Respondents then compared their expectations about life to their actual experiences in areas such as job security, financial earnings, employment benefits, job opportunities, health care benefits, retirement savings, and leisure time. A series of questions asked whether the United States was in a long-term economic and moral decline, whether the country's main problems were caused more by a lack of economic opportunity or a lack of morality, and whether the United States was still the best country in the world. Additional topics covered immigration policy and the extent to which respondents trusted the federal, state, and local governments. Demographic variables included respondents' sex, age, race, education level, marital status, household income, political party affiliation, political philosophy, voter registration and participation history, labor union membership, the presence of children in the household, whether these children attended a public school, and the employment status of respondents and their spouses.
Curated
ABC News New Hampshire Primary Voter Poll, January 2000 (ICPSR 2964)
Released/updated on: 2000-10-18
Geographic coverage: United States, New Hampshire
This special topic poll, fielded January 13, 2000, queried residents of New Hampshire on the upcoming February 1, 2000, presidential primaries. Respondents were asked how much attention they had paid to the New Hampshire primary campaigns and whether they intended to vote. Those queried were asked for whom they intended to vote in the Democratic primary, Vice President Al Gore or former New Jersey senator Bill Bradley, or for whom they intended to vote in the Republican primary, given the choice among Texas governor George W. Bush, publisher Steve Forbes, Arizona senator John McCain, Family Research Council president Gary Bauer, radio talk show host Alan Keyes, and Utah senator Orrin Hatch. Their views were sought on the most important issues of the presidential election and which candidate was best suited to handle issues such as education, the economy, taxes, Social Security/Medicare, campaign finance reform, international affairs, and health care. Respondents were asked if the following statements applied to Bradley, Bush, Gore, or McCain: typical politician, understands the average American, strong leader, experienced enough to be president, would bring needed change to Washington, DC, knowledgeable in world affairs, loyal to his political party, inspiring, has a chance of winning the election, and says what he thinks even though it may be unpopular. Additional topics covered whether respondents were pleased with the choice of candidates for the 2000 election, whether they would support a plan whereby candidates agreed to participate in twice-weekly debates and agree not to run televised political advertisements, whether Bush could cut income taxes while maintaining a balanced federal budget, and which candidate was best prepared to lead the nation into the Internet age. Background information on respondents includes age, gender, education, political party, political orientation, Hispanic descent, voter registration and participation history, military service, labor union membership, and family income.
Curated
ABC News New York City Mayor Poll, Spring 1997 (ICPSR 2498)
Released/updated on: 2007-07-03
Geographic coverage: New York City, United States, New York (state)
This special topic poll sought the views of New York City residents on the upcoming 1997 New York City mayoral election. Respondents were asked to give their opinions of Mayor Rudolph Giuliani and his policies and to comment on whether their quality of life had changed since Giuliani took office in January 1994. Those queried were asked for whom they would vote, given Republican candidate Giuliani and possible Democratic candidates Fernando Ferrer, Ruth Messinger, Al Sharpton, and Sal Albanese. Respondents were asked which of the following problems presented the greatest challenge to the city of New York: crime, the job market, the economy, race relations, education, poverty, housing, or changes in the welfare system. An additional question addressed the 1993 New York City mayoral election between Republican candidate Giuliani and Democratic candidate David Dinkins. Background information on respondents includes age, race, ethnicity, sex, education, political party, political orientation, religion, voter registration and participation history, and family income.
Curated
ABC News Nukes Poll, August 2005 (ICPSR 4516)
Released/updated on: 2006-11-13
Geographic coverage: United States
This special topic poll, undertaken August 18-21, 2005, queried respondents on their opinions about the possibilities of a terrorist attack. Respondents were asked if they felt the country was safer today than before September 11, 2001, if the United States was doing all it could to prevent another terrorist attack, how concerned they were about the possibility of another attack and if they might personally become a victim. The survey sought information on how prepared respondents felt for an attack, if they had emergency supplies on hand, and if they had an emergency plan in place. Respondents were also asked how they felt people would react to various types of attacks, how they would react to a nuclear bomb, if they felt nuclear and radiological materials were being protected, and how prepared they thought the government, law enforcement, and hospitals were for an attack. The survey also contained questions regarding respondents' driving habits, what type of vehicle they drove, their opinions of gas prices, whether or not their driving habits were being affected by the gas prices, and their opinions on the impact of gas prices on the national economy. Demographic information included party affiliation, political ideology, education, age, number of children under 18, type of residential area, race, income, and sex.
Curated
ABC News Ohio State Poll, October 2004 (ICPSR 4238)
Released/updated on: 2006-01-06
Geographic coverage: United States, Ohio
This special topic poll, conducted October 14-17, 2004, is part of a continuing series of monthly surveys that solicit public opinion on the presidency and on a range of other political and social issues. Respondents, living in Ohio, were asked to give their opinions of President George W. Bush and how he was handling his presidency, of the state of the economy, and of their own financial situations during the Bush presidency. Questions posed to respondents concerning the 2004 presidential election addressed topics such as how closely they were following the election, their chances of voting, their candidate preferences, their perceptions of the candidates, and the most important issue in the presidential election. Respondents also were asked whether they voted in previous presidential elections, what was the most important issue on the voting ballot, about the war in Iraq, whether the United States was safer compared to 2001 prior to September 11, 2001, and whether respondents had been contacted by the Bush or Kerry campaign. Issues specific to Ohio were explored with questions about candidate preferences in the Ohio senate election and about an Ohio constitutional amendment concerning marriage. Background information includes age, children under 18 in the household, education, household income, marital status, military veteran status, Ohio region of residence, political party affiliation, political ideology, race, religious affiliation, sex, union membership status, voter registration status, whether the respondent voted in the 2000 presidential election, and if the respondent did vote in 2000, for whom the respondent voted: George W. Bush (Republican), Al Gore (Democrat), Ralph Nader (Independent), or Pat Buchanan (Independent).
Curated
ABC News Perot Poll #2, July 1992 (ICPSR 9931)
Released/updated on: 2007-07-03
Geographic coverage: United States
Time period: 1992-07-17--1992-07-19
This survey, conducted during the three days following Ross Perot's announcement that he would not run for president, asked respondents for whom they would vote if the 1992 presidential election were held that day, the candidate they were leaning toward, for whom they would have voted if Perot had stayed in the race, whether they wished that Perot had stayed in the race, and if they thought the Perot candidacy was a good thing for the country. Respondents were also asked whether they had favorable impressions of Bush, Clinton, Perot, Quayle, and Gore, whether they were satisfied with the candidates who were running, and whether Clinton's selection of Al Gore as his vice-presidential running mate made it more likely that the respondent would vote for Clinton. Regarding Bush and Clinton, respondents were asked about each candidate's honesty, integrity, and ability to understand the problems of average Americans, whether the views of each candidate were too liberal or conservative, and which candidate would do the best job with the economy and with bringing the needed changes to government. In addition, those surveyed were asked whether Bush should keep Quayle on the ticket, whether they would approve if Bush decided not to keep Quayle on the ticket, whether it would be better for the country to have a younger or an older president, and whether the economy was getting better. Respondents were also asked to identify the correct spelling of "potato". Background information on respondents includes political alignment, voter registration status, likelihood of voting in the 1992 presidential election, education, age, race, and sex.
Curated
ABC News Politics Poll #1, March 1992 (ICPSR 9883)
Released/updated on: 2007-07-03
Geographic coverage: United States
This survey assessed the political climate of the United States on March 11, 1992. Those surveyed were asked whether the country was going in the right direction, whether they placed more trust in President George Bush or the Democrats in Congress to do a better job with the economy, whether they placed more trust in the Democratic or Republican party to cope with national problems, and whether Congress should meet the March 20 deadline set by President Bush for acting on his economic proposals. Respondents were also asked whether they had favorable impressions of the presidential candidates, whether Bush, Bill Clinton, or Paul Tsongas could be trusted to do a better job on the economy, whether they were concerned about Tsongas's ability to serve effectively as president because he had had cancer, whether they were satisfied that Clinton had the honesty and integrity to serve effectively as president, and whether they were better off financially than when Bush became president in 1989. In addition, respondents were asked if the United States needed a president that could set the nation in a new direction after four years of George Bush, or whether the United States needed to continue moving in the direction in which Bush had been taking it. The survey also addressed issues related to Congress, including whether the respondent felt inclined to vote for the re-election of his/her United States Representative, whether term limits for representatives should be adopted, and how the respondent viewed the congressional check-writing scandal. Background information on respondents includes political alignment, voter registration status, education, age, race, income, and sex.
Curated
ABC News Politics Poll #2, March 1992 (ICPSR 9882)
Released/updated on: 2007-11-06
Geographic coverage: United States
This survey assessed the political climate of the United States on March 18, 1992. Those surveyed were asked whether they approved of the way the United States Congress was doing its job and, more specifically, the way their own United States Representative was doing his/her job, whether they felt enthusiastic about the way the federal government worked, and whether they had favorable impressions of the presidential candidates, and their wives. Respondents were also asked which presidential candidate they would trust to do the best job with the economy, whether they were satisfied that each candidate had the honesty and integrity to serve effectively as president, and whether each candidate understood the problems of the average American well enough to serve effectively as president. Additional questions probed respondents regarding the re-election of their own representatives to Congress, term limits for United States Representatives, and the congressional check-writing scandal. Background information on respondents includes political alignment, voter registration status, most recent presidential vote choice, education, age, race, income, and sex.
Curated
ABC News Poll, January 1989 (ICPSR 9186)
Released/updated on: 2007-07-03
Geographic coverage: United States
Time period: 1989-01-12--1989-01-16
This data collection is part of a continuing series of monthly surveys that evaluate the Reagan presidency and solicit opinions on a variety of political and social issues. Respondents were asked about the nation's economy, the possibility of a recession, problems facing the country, impressions of George Bush, Dan Quayle, and Oliver North, concerns about Bush as president, and whether Oliver North should receive a presidential pardon for his role in the Iran-Contra affair. Background information on respondents includes political alignment, 1988 presidential vote choice, education, age, religion, health insurance membership, marital status, household composition, labor union membership, employment status, race, income, sex, and telephone number.
Curated
ABC News Poll, July 1991 (ICPSR 9758)
Released/updated on: 2007-07-03
Geographic coverage: United States
Time period: 1991-07-25--1991-07-28
This data collection is part of a continuing series of monthly surveys that evaluate the Bush presidency and solicit opinions on a variety of political and social issues. Topics covered include the economy, foreign affairs, the situation in the Persian Gulf, and the recession. In addition, respondents were questioned in depth regarding health care and health insurance. They were asked about the quality of health care, health insurance coverage, the health insurance system in the United States, whether they would choose an inexpensive health care program that did not allow them to choose their own doctors or an expensive one that permitted that choice, and whether they would prefer private health insurance or national health insurance. Respondents were also asked if they thought the Persian Gulf War was worth fighting, if the United States should bomb Iraq if the United States government believed Iraq was secretly trying to make nuclear weapons, if they approved of Clarence Thomas's nomination to the Supreme Court, and if they had favorable impressions of certain persons, organizations, and countries. Among the other subjects addressed are the economic and political system changes of the Soviet Union, cutting the number of long-range nuclear missiles, the Middle East peace conference, the United States House of Representatives election in November, and AIDS testing. Background information on respondents includes political alignment, 1988 presidential vote choice, education, age, religion, social class, marital status, number of people in household, labor union membership, employment status, race, income, sex, and state/region of residence.
Curated
ABC News Poll, July 2000 (ICPSR 3058)
Released/updated on: 2001-04-17
Geographic coverage: United States
Time period: 2000-07-20--2000-07-23
This poll, fielded July 20-23, 2000, is part of a continuing series of monthly surveys that solicit public opinion on the presidency and on a range of other political and social issues. Respondents were asked whether they intended to vote in the November 7, 2000, presidential election and for whom they would vote if the election were held that day, given a choice between Vice President Al Gore (Democratic Party), Texas governor George W. Bush (Republican Party), conservative commentator Pat Buchanan (Reform Party), and consumer advocate Ralph Nader (Green Party). Respondents were asked to assess the importance of the following issues in their electoral decision-making and to specify which candidate they most trusted to do a better job addressing them: holding taxes down, protecting the Social Security system, improving education, improving the health care system, handling the economy, handling gun control, handling foreign affairs, encouraging high moral standards and values, handling the death penalty issue, protecting people's privacy on the Internet, handling the federal budget surplus, managing the federal budget, handling crime, protecting the environment, addressing women's issues, and appointing justices to the Supreme Court. Views were sought on whether presidential debates should be held, which candidates should be invited to participate, and whether respondents were satisfied with the presidential candidates. In addition, respondents were asked which candidate understood the problems of the American people, was a strong leader, would bring needed change to Washington, had the knowledge of world affairs it takes to serve effectively as president, could keep the economy strong, would say or do anything to get elected, had new ideas, said what he really thought, was honest and trustworthy, had an appealing personality, and had the right kind of experience to be president. Those queried were asked whether a difference existed between Gore and Bush on the issues about which the respondent cared and their personal qualities. Opinions were elicited on whether the top priority for the federal budget surplus should be cutting federal taxes, reducing the national debt, strengthening Social Security, or increasing spending on domestic programs. Additional questions covered abortion and the impact of Bush's naming a running mate who supported legalized abortion, Bush's handling of the death penalty while governor of Texas, voter intentions regarding the 2000 Congressional elections, whether a smaller government with fewer services is preferred to a larger government with many services, whether the country should continue to move in the direction that Clinton established, and whether it mattered who was elected president. Background information on respondents includes age, gender, political party, political orientation, voter registration and participation history, education, religion, labor union membership, Hispanic origin, household income, and neighborhood characteristics.
Curated
ABC News Poll, July 2008 (ICPSR 27322)
Released/updated on: 2010-05-06
Geographic coverage: United States
This poll, conducted July 23-28, 2008, is part of a continuing series of monthly surveys that solicit public opinion on the presidency and on a range of other political and social issues. A national sample of 1,000 adults was surveyed. Information was collected on respondents' opinion of the environment and their views on various environmental issues. This included how the respondent rated the condition of the natural environment, the single biggest environmental problem the world faces, how much they trust the things that scientists say about the environment, and whether they thought the weather patterns in the last three years have been more stable both where the respondent lives and in the world in general. Respondents were also asked whether they had heard about the idea that the world's temperature may have been rising slowly over the past 100 years and if they thought this statement was true. They were asked if they believed the increase in temperature was caused by things people do or by natural causes. The issue of global warming was brought up and respondents answered questions of how important it was to them, how much they knew about global warming, how serious a problem they thought it was, whether it will pose a serious threat to them or their way of life in their lifetime, whether it will be a problem for future generations, whether or not scientists agree that global warming is happening, and whether most scientists agree with one another about the causes and threat of global warming. Respondents were asked if they thought the United States should take action on global warming only if other major industrial countries such as China and India agree to do equally effective things, the effect on the economy if the United States does more than other countries to address global warming, whether global warming can be reduced without people making major changes in lifestyle, and whether the government or businesses would be better for reducing global warming. Information was also collected on whether respondents used products made from recycled materials, whether recycled products were easier to find now than five years ago, and whether these products were actually better for the environment. Respondents were also asked if they would be more or less likely to vote for a candidate for president if they are a strong environmentalist, Barack Obama and John McCain's positions on global warming, and which candidate would do more to reduce global warming in the future. Questions were asked on whether the recent price increases in gasoline have caused any financial hardship for the respondent, how closely they were following the news about the environment, their main source of information about environmental issues, and if they considered themselves an environmentalist. Demographic variables include sex, age, race, income, political party affiliation, political philosophy, education level, religious preference, type of residential area (e.g., urban or rural), whether any children under the age of 18 are living in the household, and whether respondents considered themselves to be a born-again Christian.
Curated
ABC News Poll, June 2000 (ICPSR 3057)
Released/updated on: 2001-04-17
Geographic coverage: United States
Time period: 2000-06-08--2000-06-11
This poll, fielded June 8-11, 2000, is part of a continuing series of monthly surveys that solicit public opinion on the presidency and on a range of other political and social issues. Respondents were asked whether they intended to vote in the November 7, 2000, presidential election and for whom they would vote if the election were held that day, given a choice between Vice President Al Gore (Democratic Party), Texas governor George W. Bush (Republican Party), conservative commentator Pat Buchanan (Reform Party), and consumer advocate Ralph Nader (Green Party). Their views were sought on which candidate they trusted to do a better job protecting Social Security and handling the economy. Respondents were also asked which candidate was more likely to exaggerate his accomplishments, had a more appealing personality, was more intelligent, better understood the problems of the American people, was more honest/trustworthy, would be a stronger leader, and could get things done, and whether a real difference existed between the candidates on the issues about which the respondent cared. An additional question sought respondent views on the state of the nation's economy. Background information on respondents includes age, gender, political party, political orientation, voter registration, education, religion, labor union membership, Hispanic origin, and household income.
Curated
ABC News Poll, November 1990 (ICPSR 9561)
Released/updated on: 2007-07-03
Geographic coverage: United States
Time period: 1990-11-01--1990-11-04
This data collection is part of a continuing series of monthly surveys that evaluate the Bush presidency and solicit opinions on a variety of political and social issues. Topics covered include approval ratings for public officials (George Bush, Congress, the respondent's representative in Congress, Democrats, and Republicans) on the issues of job performance, handling of the economy, and handling of the situation caused by Iraq's invasion of Kuwait, the budget deficit reduction plan (and the income group that would be most affected by it), and the income group that Bush, Democrats, and Republicans cared most about. Respondents also were asked how important various political issues were to their vote choice on election day, if they planned to vote in the upcoming general election, for which party they would vote, and whether they would vote to re-elect their own representative. Other questions focusing on the situation in the Persian Gulf addressed the issues of the use of military force if necessary to ensure Iraq's withdrawal from Kuwait, long-term military presence of the United States in the Gulf region, the use of military force should the economic embargo prove unsuccessful, the likelihood that the United States would go to war with Iraq, and Americans and other foreigners being held hostage by Iraq. Background information provided includes political alignment, registered voter status, 1988 presidential and congressional vote choices, education, age, race, income, sex, and state/region of residence.
Curated
ABC News Poll, November 1999 (ICPSR 2901)
Released/updated on: 2000-06-21
Geographic coverage: United States
Time period: 1999-10-28--1999-10-31
This poll, fielded October 28-31, 1999, is part of a continuing series of monthly surveys that solicit public opinion on the presidency and a range of other political and social issues. Several questions were asked of respondents to gauge their feelings about the 2000 presidential election and the candidates Vice President Al Gore, Texas governor George W. Bush, Arizona senator John McCain, former New Jersey senator Bill Bradley, publisher Steve Forbes, developer Donald Trump, and conservative commentator Pat Buchanan. Respondents were asked whom they intended to vote for, whether they had favorable or unfavorable impressions of each candidate, how well they knew each candidate's personal qualities and stance on specific issues and which was the more important factor in choosing a candidate to support, and whether they thought the individual presidential hopefuls would follow the governing path laid down by Clinton or would forge a new path. Respondents were asked how important the following issues were to the 2000 presidential election and how Gore and Bush would handle these issues: gun control, election campaign finance reform, patients' rights in the health care system, holding taxes down, protecting the Social Security system, protecting the Medicare system, the national economy, crime, foreign affairs, improvement of education and schools, helping the middle class, encouraging high moral standards and values, the federal budget, protecting the environment, abortion, and the nuclear test ban treaty. More comparison questions were asked concerning Gore and Bush, specifically, which of the two candidates the respondent was most likely to vote for, how strongly they supported their choice, and if there was a chance that they would change their minds. Gore and Bush were also compared on these attributes: honest and trustworthy, high personal and moral standards, understands the problems of the average American, strong leader, new ideas, right kind of experience to be president, right kind of personality and temperament to be president, and would bring needed change to Washington. Additional topics covered included respondents' satisfaction with the jobs done by President Bill Clinton, the United States Congress, and the respondents' representatives in the House of Representatives. They were also asked if they would vote for the Democratic or Republican candidate if a congressional election were held today. Background information on respondents includes whether they voted in the 1996 presidential election, whom they voted for, self-placement on the conservative/liberal continuum, education, age, labor union membership, Hispanic descent, race, and sex.
Curated
ABC News Poll of Public Opinion on Current Social and Political Issues, December 1981 (ICPSR 8020)
Released/updated on: 1992-02-16
Geographic coverage: United States
This special-topic poll is part of a continuing series of monthly surveys that solicit public opinion on the presidency and on a range of other political and social issues. This data colletion focuses on President Ronald Reagan, Libya, and the economy. Respondents were asked to evaluate Reagan's presidency and his handling of the nation's economy, to give their opinions of United States relations with Libya, and to assess the impact of Reagan's economic policies on their personal financial situations. Demographic information including respondent's race, age, household income, and educational level was collected.
Curated
ABC News Poll, September 1993 (ICPSR 6285)
Released/updated on: 1997-05-16
Geographic coverage: United States
This poll is part of a continuing series of monthly surveys that solicit public opinion on the presidency and on a range of other political and social issues. Respondents were asked whether they approved of Bill Clinton's handling of his job as president, the nation's economy, foreign affairs, and the health care plan. Respondents were asked whether Clinton's health care plan was better or worse than the existing system and whether it was good for the long-term future of the nation. The quality of health care and health insurance coverage were also addressed. Respondents were asked whether the plan treated them fairly and whether Congress should pass Clinton's health care plan with or without changes. Other topics included the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA), Israel and the Palestinian Liberation Organization (PLO), and whether the penny is a useful coin. Demographic background variables include political orientation, sex, age, race, income, and education.
Curated
ABC News Poll, September 1994 (ICPSR 3854)
Released/updated on: 2006-11-30
Geographic coverage: Cuba, Haiti, United States
This poll is part of a continuing series of monthly surveys that solicit public opinion on the presidency and on a range of other political and social issues. Questions included the respondent's opinion on what the most important problem facing the United States was and approval ratings for President Clinton's handling of the presidency, the economy, foreign affairs, crime, and health care. Approval ratings were also tallied for the United States Congress and the Democrats and Republicans in Congress. Respondents were asked how much Congress had accomplished in the past year compared to years before and who was responsible (i.e., President Clinton or the parties in Congress). Respondents were asked if they believed certain political figures, including President Clinton, Senate Majority Leader Bob Dole, and the respondent's representative in Congress, were doing what was best for the country, their district, or their own political lives. Those polled were asked what they believed their representative in Congress should or should not be doing, and which political party was better at handling issues such as the economy and helping the middle class. Queries included the general functioning of the federal government and what, if any, changes were needed. Respondent opinions on the crime bill were gathered, as well as approval ratings on Congress's handling of the health care system. Other questions concerning health care included whether the respondent supported proposed changes to the health care system and whether the respondent believed that significant improvements would be made to the health care system. Respondents were also queried on what changes they would like to see in Congress -- for example, whether they would vote for their incumbent representative or the challenger. Respondents were asked if they believed that America's vital interests were at stake in the situation in Cuba and/or in Haiti and whether the United States should end its economic embargo against Cuba if certain conditions were met. Questions also solicited respondent views on whether they would support a military invasion of Haiti and if they believed that the United States would go to war with Haiti. Respondents' knowledge of bills passed in Congress within the past year was also assessed. Demographic information gathered includes political affiliation, voter registration status, voting record, political philosophy, level of education, religious preference, urban or rural residence, marital status, labor union status, working status, ethnicity, age, sex, yearly income, and willingness for call-back.
Curated
ABC News Post-Debate #1 Poll, October 2000 (ICPSR 3129)
Released/updated on: 2004-09-02
Geographic coverage: United States
This special topic poll sought respondents' views on the presidential debate held on October 6th, 2000. Questions included how closely respondents were following the 2000 race for the presidency and how sure they were that they would vote on election day. Those polled were asked whom they would vote for, whether they had a favorable opinion of the candidates, and which candidate they felt would do a better job on issues such as education and the economy. Respondents were also asked to state which characteristics they believed that Governor Bush and Vice President Gore had, such as leadership and experience, and to indicate which candidate they believed had "won" the debate televised earlier in that week. Questions on popular social issues included whether respondents preferred small or large government, whether they supported the school vouchers initiative, whether they still would support the initiative if it meant less money for public schools, and what course of action they would take if they could receive school vouchers. Background information includes number of children respondent had under the age of 18, political identification, voting record, political philosophy, level of education, age, ethnicity, annual household income, and sex.
Curated
ABC News Post-Debate #2 Poll, October 2000 (ICPSR 3114)
Released/updated on: 2004-08-20
Geographic coverage: United States
This special topic poll sought respondents' views on the presidential debate held on October 11, 2000. Questions included how closely respondents were following the 2000 race for the presidency, how sure they were that they would vote on election day, and whom they would vote for. Respondents were asked how certain they were that they would vote for a particular candidate. Respondents uncertain of whom they would vote for were asked which candidate they leaned towards the most. Questions also included whether the respondent had a favorable opinion of the candidates and which candidate the respondent felt would do a better job on issues such as education and the economy, among others. Respondents were also asked to state which characteristics they believed that Governor Bush and Vice President Gore had, such as honesty and good experience. Questions on voting history included whether the respondents voted in the 1996 election and if so for whom. They were asked which candidate they believed had "won" the debate televised earlier in that week. Background information gathered includes are political identification, voting record, political philosophy, level of education, age, ethnicity, annual household income, and sex.
Curated
ABC News Post-Republican Convention Poll, August 1992 (ICPSR 6018)
Released/updated on: 2006-11-30
Geographic coverage: United States
Time period: 1992-08-20--1992-08-21
This poll is part of a continuing series of monthly surveys that solicit public opinion on the presidency and on a range of political, social, and economic issues. Conducted by ABC News in August of 1992, the poll focused on topics such as the effect of Ross Perot's withdrawal from the presidential race on voting preferences, evaluations of the current presidential and vice-presidential candidates, perceived responsibility for current economic conditions, and the federal government's lack of action on major problems facing the nation, the economy, and the budget deficit. Respondents were asked to rate the likelihood of their voting in the upcoming presidential election in light of their personal daily schedules and to indicate their voting preferences and strength of support for Bush, Clinton, and Perot. The poll also assessed how favorably respondents viewed the current presidential and vice-presidential candidates, and whether the respondent was satisfied that each candidate had the honesty, integrity, and ability to understand the problems of the average American and to serve effectively as president. Respondents were also asked to indicate which candidate would do the best job of dealing with family values, foreign affairs, the economy, the budget deficit, bringing needed change to government, and taxes. Bush and Clinton were also evaluated with regard to whether they had a vision for the future of the country, would get things done, and could be trusted in a crisis. Respondents were asked whether Bush or the Democrats in Congress were most responsible for the current economic conditions and the federal government's failure to act on major problems. With respect to the economy, respondents were asked whether they would be willing to contribute a percentage of their tax returns if it lowered the deficit by the same percent, whether the economy was getting better or worse, and which was more important: cutting federal taxes or spending more on domestic problems. Other items included respondents' assessments of the economic level of people Bush cared most about, and whether the United States should bomb Iraq if it believed Iraq was not in compliance with the terms of the cease-fire agreement. Demographic information includes political affiliation, political conservatism/liberalism, education, age, race, and gender.
Curated
ABC News Post-State of the Union Address Poll, January 2003 (ICPSR 3773)
Released/updated on: 2003-08-07
Geographic coverage: United States
This special topic poll, conducted January 28, 2003, was undertaken to assess public opinion on the presidency and on a range of other political and social issues following the State of the Union Address earlier that evening. Respondents were asked to give their opinions of President George W. Bush and his handling of the presidency, the economy, the situation with Iraq and Iraqi President Saddam Hussein, and the cost, availability, and coverage of health insurance. Those polled were asked whether they supported or opposed United States military action against Iraq to force Hussein from power, whether their support or opposition would change if the United Nations opposed such action, and whether they supported or opposed an invasion by United States ground troops with significant military casualties. Views were sought on whether Bush had presented enough evidence to justify the use of military force in Iraq, whether United Nations weapons inspectors should be given additional time to search for weapons of mass destruction, and whether Iraq provided direct support to the al Qaeda terrorist group. A series of questions focusing on the State of the Union Address covered whether respondents approved or disapproved of Bush's message, whether Bush made a good case for going to war with Iraq, and whether the speech made respondents more or less confident in Bush's ability to handle the economy, the situation with Iraq, and the cost, availability, and coverage of health insurance. Background information on respondents includes gender and political party.
Curated
ABC News Pre-Election Poll, November 1994 (ICPSR 3871)
Released/updated on: 2006-11-13
Geographic coverage: United States
This special topic poll, conducted November 3-6, 1994, was undertaken to assess public opinion prior to election day. Respondents were polled on President Bill Clinton's handling of the presidency, their satisfaction with the way the federal government worked, whether the Democrats or the Republicans would do a better job dealing with the main problems facing the country, and the condition of the national economy. Questions regarding the upcoming United States House of Representatives election asked respondents how closely they were following it, the likelihood that they would vote, whether they would vote for the Democratic or Republican candidate, whether they planned to re-elect their own representative in Congress, and how often they voted in state elections when there was no presidential race. Background variables include sex, age, ethnicity, education, household income, political party affiliation, and voter participation and registration history.
Curated
ABC News Pre-Election Poll, November 2002 (ICPSR 3768)
Released/updated on: 2003-10-09
Geographic coverage: United States
This special topic poll, conducted October 31, 2002, was undertaken to assess respondents' views prior to the November 2002 elections. Respondents were asked about their past voting history, the likelihood that they would vote in the November 2002 elections, and their political party preference. Respondents were also asked to give their opinions on how President George W. Bush and his administration were handling the following: the war on terrorism, Social Security, the economy, health care, prescription drug benefits, and the war with Iraq. They were asked whether these issues affected their voting selections and if so, in what way. Opinions of President George W. Bush, his effectiveness as a leader, and his effect on the November 2002 elections were solicited. In addition, respondents asked about what the priorities of the nation should be, the current state of the national economy, and their personal financial situation. Background information includes age, education, ethnicity, household income, sex, religious orientation, political orientation, and whether the respondent lived in an urban, suburban, or rural area.
Curated
ABC News Pre-State of the Union Address Poll, January 2003 (ICPSR 3772)
Released/updated on: 2003-09-25
Geographic coverage: United States
This special topic poll, conducted January 27, 2003, was undertaken to assess public opinion on the presidency and on a range of other political and social issues on the eve of the State of the Union Address. Respondents were asked to give their opinions of President George W. Bush and his handling of the presidency, the economy, the United States campaign against terrorism, and the situation with Iraq and Iraqi President Saddam Hussein. Those polled were asked whether they supported or opposed United States military action against Iraq to force Hussein from power, whether their support or opposition would change if the United Nations opposed such action, and whether they supported or opposed an invasion by United States ground troops with possible military casualties. Views were sought on whether Bush had presented enough evidence to justify the use of military force in Iraq, whether United Nations weapons inspectors should be given additional time to search for weapons of mass destruction, and whether the burden of proof regarding the existence of weapons of mass destruction lay with the United States or with Iraq. Respondents were asked whether they were concerned that the Bush administration would act too quickly and/or without international support, whether Iraq posed an immediate threat to United States interests, and whether Bush had overstated the level of threat facing the United States from Iraq. Background information on respondents includes gender and political party.
Curated
ABC News State of the Union Poll, January 1986 (ICPSR 8572)
Released/updated on: 2007-09-20
Geographic coverage: United States
This survey was conducted after President Reagan's 1986 State of the Union address. Respondents were asked to rate Reagan's performance as president, to identify the country's major problems and to describe the state of the economy. They were also asked their opinion of: the likelihood of a war involving the United States in the near future, the likelihood of a terrorist attack against the United States, whether they favor cutting spending or raising taxes (or both) to reduce the federal budget deficit, and whether they favor tax reform measures that reduce tax rates but eliminate many of the current tax deductions. Political affiliation and sex were also recorded.
Curated
ABC News/Washington Post 2004 Voters Poll, October 2003 (ICPSR 3943)
Released/updated on: 2004-04-07
Geographic coverage: United States
This special topic poll, conducted October 26-29, 2003, was undertaken to gather voters' opinions regarding the upcoming 2004 presidential election. Respondents were asked whether they approved of the way George W. Bush was handling the presidency, the economy, education, Social Security, taxes, health insurance, and international affairs, and how they rated the importance of these issues in deciding whom to vote for in the 2004 presidential election. Those polled were asked whether they believed President Bush understood people like themselves, whether he was a strong leader, and whether he was honest and trustworthy. A series of questions addressed the condition of the national economy, whether the respondent and most Americans were better or worse off financially than when George W. Bush first became president, and the degree to which President Bush was responsible for the federal budget deficit. Specific questions asked whether the war with Iraq was worth fighting, if it was separate from or part of the war on terrorism, whether the number of military casualties was acceptable or unacceptable, whether respondents would support or oppose Congress spending an additional 87 billion dollars for the war and rebuilding of Iraq, and whether it was more important to keep United States military forces in Iraq until civil order could be restored or to withdraw forces to avoid further military casualties. Questions were posed regarding how closely respondents followed the 2004 presidential election, whether they would vote for George W. Bush or a Democratic nominee for president, how likely they were to vote, whether the Republican and Democratic parties were being led in the right direction, how closely each party reflected the respondents' beliefs on important issues, whether the Democratic Party was too willing or not willing enough to compromise with President Bush, and whether there should be more than two major political parties. Democratic-leaning respondents were asked whom they would vote for in the Democratic presidential primary (Senator Joe Lieberman, United States Representative Dick Gephardt, Senator John Kerry, Senator John Edwards, civil rights activist Al Sharpton, former Vermont governor Howard Dean, United States Representative Dennis Kucinich, former Senator Carol Moseley Braun, or General Wesley Clark), how satisfied they were with the choice of Democratic nominees, which candidate had the best chance of defeating Bush, and whether respondents preferred a candidate who agreed with them on most issues or one who would have an easier time defeating Bush. Respondents were also polled on how much they felt they knew about the Democratic nominees and whether a candidate's personal qualities or positions on issues was most important. Additional questions asked respondents if they approved of the way the U.S. Congress was doing its job, how satisfied they were with the way the federal government and the political process worked, how well the United States campaign against terrorism was progressing, and whether they felt the federal government was threatening their own personal rights and freedoms. Background variables include age, sex, religion, education, ethnicity, subjective size of community, household income, political orientation, political party affiliation, if respondents were registered to vote, if they voted in the 2000 presidential election and if so, for whom (Republican George W. Bush, Democrat Al Gore, Green Party candidate Ralph Nader, or Reform Party candidate Pat Buchanan), and if a household member was in military service, a military veteran, a reservist, or belonged to a labor union.
Curated
ABC News/Washington Post Contract with America Poll, January 1995 (ICPSR 3833)
Released/updated on: 2006-11-30
Geographic coverage: United States
For this poll, fielded on January 3-4, 1995, respondents were asked to rate President Clinton's handling of the country in general, the economy, and foreign affairs. It was also intended to gauge the public's knowledge of the "Contract with America," a nationwide Republican initiative to gain a majority in Congress in which they laid out a specific action plan in the Senatorial and Representative campaigns of Republicans throughout the United States. Other approval rating questions sought opinions on Speaker of the House Newt Gingrich and Senate Majority Leader Bob Dole. Respondents were queried on whether they trusted President Clinton or the Republicans in Congress to provide strong leadership and handle issues such as Social Security and reduce the federal budget deficit. Those surveyed were asked if the switch from Democratic control of the Congress to Republican control was a good thing, and if the respondents had any idea how Clinton or the Republicans planned to lead the nation in the next two years. Questions included who the respondents would vote for if the 1996 election were to occur that day. Items regarding the budget included whether respondents would support an amendment to the Constitution requiring the federal budget to be balanced and under what circumstances they would support such an amendment, such as cutting spending on certain programs or raising taxes. Opinions were gathered on a range of social issues including prayer in schools, the death penalty, and welfare. Respondents were asked how often they watched daytime talk shows and whether they were more interested in the new session of Congress or the O.J. Simpson trial. Respondents were also asked to gauge if the economy or the standard of living was improving and to speculate how economically hard-off their parents were or their children would be. Demographic information includes party identification, voter registration status, voting record, political philosophy, level of education, birth date, ethnicity, total yearly income, and sex.
Curated
ABC News/Washington Post Democratic Convention Closer Poll, July 2004 (ICPSR 4118)
Released/updated on: 2005-03-25
Geographic coverage: United States
This poll, conducted July 30-August 1, 2004, is part of a continuing series of monthly polls that solicit opinions on the presidency and on other political and social issues. Shortly after the close of the 2004 Democratic National Convention, respondents were asked how closely they were following the 2004 United States presidential election, how likely they were to vote, and which candidate they were likely to vote for or favored. They were queried on their knowledge and opinions of the candidates, Republican incumbent George W. Bush and Democratic Senator John F. Kerry, and their preferences between the candidates concerning domestic and international issues, and personal qualities. Specific questions asked which candidate the respondent trusted to do a better job handling the economy, the situation in Iraq, education, the United States campaign against terrorism, health care, taxes, international relations, and improving United States intelligence agencies. Respondents were also asked which candidate they thought was more honest and trustworthy, understood the problems of people like them, was a strong leader, took a position and stuck with it, would make the country safer and more secure, shared their values, had a vision for the future, and understood complex issues. Background information includes age, education, ethnicity, geographic classification, labor union membership, political party affiliation, political party ideology, religious affiliation, voter registration status, and whether the respondent voted in the 2000 United States presidential election and for whom they voted.
Curated
ABC News/Washington Post Democratic Convention Opener Poll, July 2004 (ICPSR 4113)
Released/updated on: 2005-03-25
Geographic coverage: United States
This special topic poll, conducted June 16-17, 2004, is part of a continuing series of monthly surveys that solicit public opinion on the presidency and on a range of other political and social issues. Respondents were asked to give their opinions of United States President George W. Bush, how he had handled his presidency, the state of the economy and respondents' personal financial situations during Bush's presidency, and how he compared to Democratic presidential candidate Senator John F. Kerry on trustworthiness, leadership abilities, honesty, etc. Respondents were further asked whom they would vote for if the election were held that day, how closely they were following the 2004 United States presidential election, whether they were a strong supporter for either candidate, and whether they were voting for one candidate or voting against the other candidate. Respondents were polled on what single issue Kerry should address in his Democratic Convention speech, whether this presidential election was more important than many presidential elections in the past, whether the Bush administration purposely misled the public about weapons of mass destruction in Iraq, and other issues concerning the war in Iraq. Background information includes age, education, household income, labor union membership status, marital status, political ideology, presidential choice in 2000, race, religious affiliation, sex, urbanicity, veteran status, and voter participation in 2000.
Curated
ABC News/Washington Post Inaugural Poll, January 1997 (ICPSR 2173)
Released/updated on: 2008-01-14
Geographic coverage: United States
This special topic poll, conducted January 13-15, 1997, is part of a continuing series of monthly polls that solicit public opinion on the presidency and on a range of other political and social issues. This data collection was undertaken to assess public opinion prior to President Bill Clinton's second-term inauguration as president of the United States. Respondents were asked to give their opinions of President Clinton and his handling of the first term of his presidency, whether he would do a better or worse job in his second term in office, whether they approved of his choices for Cabinet and other top positions in his administration, and what the nature of his relationship with Congress should be in his second term. Views were sought on whether President Clinton had made progress toward reducing unemployment and improving education during his first term, and whether he would make substantial progress in these areas during his second term. Respondents rated the most important issue facing the country, whether they were better or worse off financially compared to four years ago, whether they approved of the way Congress was handling its job, whether they expected Congress to do a better job in the next two years, and whether they trusted the Clinton administration or the Republicans in Congress to handle the main problems the nation would face over the next few years. Other questions asked whether respondents approved of the way Hillary Clinton was handling her job as first lady and the amount of influence she held over her husband, and whether she should play a greater role in her husband's second administration. A series of questions asked about recent allegations involving President Clinton, including Whitewater, the Democratic National Campaign Committee's acceptance of foreign contributions, and former Arkansas state employee Paula Jones's sexual harassment charges, and whether they would interfere with his ability to serve as president. Additional topics addressed what actions the government should take to protect the long-term financial stability of Social Security and the Medicare health system and the overall level of ethics and honesty in politics and the federal government. Demographic variables include sex, age, race, education level, household income, political party affiliation, political philosophy, and voter participation history.
Curated
ABC News/Washington Post John McCain Departure Poll, March 2000 (ICPSR 2970)
Released/updated on: 2000-12-22
Geographic coverage: United States
This poll, fielded March 8, 2000, the eve of Arizona senator John McCain's announcement that he was withdrawing from the presidential race, is part of a continuing series of monthly surveys that solicit public opinion on the presidency and on a range of other political and social issues. Respondents were asked whether they intended to vote in the November 7, 2000, presidential election and for whom they would vote if the election were held that day, given a choice between Vice President Al Gore (Democrat), Texas governor George W. Bush (Republican), Arizona senator John McCain (Republican), and conservative commentator Pat Buchanan (Reform). Those queried were asked whether Bush or Gore better understood the problems of the American people, was a strong leader, would bring change to Washington, DC, was intelligent, and was mature enough to be president. Views were sought on which candidate was best able to address gun control, campaign finance reform, protecting patients' rights in the health care system, taxes, foreign affairs, protecting Social Security, health care, Medicare, the economy, education, the environment, and abortion. An additional question asked respondents whether they thought that Gore was too close to President Bill Clinton. Background information on respondents includes age, gender, political party, political orientation, voter registration and participation history, education, religion, Hispanic origin, labor union membership, and household income.
Curated
ABC News/Washington Post Labor Day Poll, September 2001 (ICPSR 3288)
Released/updated on: 2001-10-22
Geographic coverage: United States
This poll, conducted September 6-9, 2001, is part of a continuing series of monthly surveys that solicit public opinion on the presidency and on a range of other political and social issues. Respondents were asked to give their opinions of President George W. Bush and his handling of the presidency, the economy, foreign affairs, environmental issues, education, the energy situation, patients' rights in the healthcare system, Social Security, the federal budget, the cost of prescription drugs, and the defense/military budget. Their views were sought on the state of the nation's economy, including effects of the recently enacted $1.4 trillion tax cut and whether the economy was headed toward a recession. A series of questions addressed recent estimates that the federal budget surplus was much lower than earlier forecasts showed. Respondents were asked whether they were worried about such estimates, and who or what was most to blame for the lower surplus -- Bush, congressional Democrats, the tax cut passed by Congress and signed by Bush, or a slowing national economy. Those queried were asked whether they supported or opposed the following ways the government could handle the shrinking surplus: taking surplus money from the Social Security program and spending it on other programs, reducing the size of the tax cut, dropping plans to increase spending on education, dropping plans to improve prescription drug benefits for senior citizens, or dropping plans to increase military spending. An additional question solicited views on whether the country should follow the direction of the Bush administration or whether the country should follow the lead of congressional Democrats. Background information on respondents includes age, gender, political party, political orientation, voter participation history, education, Hispanic origin, and household income.
Curated
ABC News/Washington Post Lewinsky/Politics Poll, September 1998 (ICPSR 2643)
Released/updated on: 1999-02-25
Geographic coverage: United States
This special topic poll sought public opinion on the presidency and on a range of other political and social issues. Respondents were asked to give their opinions of President Bill Clinton and his handling of the presidency, the economy, and foreign affairs. Those queried were also asked to provide opinions on the United States Congress, the operation of the federal government, and the upcoming November 1998 elections. Respondents were asked to compare the Democratic and Republican platforms in the following areas: the economy, crime, foreign affairs, education, the middle class, taxes, the federal budget, Social Security, Medicare, health care, moral leadership, and dealing with the Monica Lewinsky matter. They were asked to consider the importance given to those issues and the role of Clinton's affair with White House intern Monica Lewinsky in their upcoming electoral decisions. Those queried were asked whether they believed that Clinton should remain in office, resign, be impeached, or be censured, if it were determined that he lied under oath or encouraged others to do so. If they answered that Clinton should not be impeached, respondents were asked to explain further. Respondents were asked to describe how impeachment hearings should be carried out, if they were held. Additional topics covered the motivation of Independent Counsel Kenneth Starr and Congress regarding the Lewinsky investigation, and whether respondents believed that this scandal had damaged Clinton's ability to serve effectively as president. Background information on respondents includes age, sex, race, education, political party, political orientation, voter registration and participation history, marital status, religion, family income, and age of children in household.
Curated
ABC News/Washington Post Monthly Poll, April 2009 (ICPSR 27764)
Released/updated on: 2010-04-29
Geographic coverage: United States
This poll, fielded April 21-24, 2009, is part of a continuing series of monthly surveys that solicit public opinion on the presidency and on a range of other political and social issues. Respondents were asked to give their opinions of President Barack Obama and his handling of the presidency, foreign policy, and the economy as well as opinions on Vice President Joe Biden. Respondents were asked whether the Obama administration, the Republicans or the Democrats in Congress could be trusted to do a better job coping with the economic problems the nation faced, whether things in the country were going in the right direction, and the capacity of President Obama to understand the problems and needs of the American citizen. Respondents were also asked their opinions of the effectiveness of the economic stimulus and federal controls to prevent waste and fraud in the economic recovery, as well as the appropriateness for United States automakers to declare bankruptcy and their role in the national economy. Non-economic questions concerned the role of the United States in Afghanistan, confidence in the Obama administration in the handling of Afghanistan and the campaign against terrorism, whether the United States should establish diplomatic/trade relations with Cuba, whether the Obama administration should investigate the legality of the use of torture during the previous Bush (George, W.) administration, concerns over greenhouse gases, gun control and its relationship to the level of violent crime in the United States and the legality of same-sex marriage. Additional questions asked respondents for their opinions on the effectiveness of immigration control and proposed amnesty plans for illegal immigrants, and legalizing possession of marijuana for personal use. Personal financial and economic topics addressed how concerned respondents were that they could maintain their current standard of living. Demographic variables include sex, age, race, political philosophy, type of residential area (e.g., urban or rural), education level, religious preference, employment status, household income, and whether respondents considered themselves to be a born-again Christian.
Curated
ABC News/Washington Post Monthly Poll, April 2010 (ICPSR 30204)
Released/updated on: 2011-09-21
Geographic coverage: United States
This poll, fielded April 22-25, 2010 is part of a continuing series of monthly surveys that solicit public opinion on the presidency and on a range of other political and social issues. Respondents were asked to give their opinions of President Barack Obama and his handling of the presidency, the federal budget deficit, health care, the situation in Afghanistan, regulation in the financial industry, nuclear weapons policy, the economy, and whether the Obama Administration or the Republicans in Congress could be trusted to do a better job handling these issues. Respondents were also asked their opinions on whether the Bush Administration or the Obama Administration were to blame for the current economic situation and federal budget deficit. Respondents were asked whether they supported or opposed stricter federal regulations on the way banks, other financial institutions, and Wall Street firms conducted their businesses, having the federal government regulate derivatives, and increasing federal oversight of the way banks and other financial companies make consumer loans. Opinions were collected on whether factors such as gender, sexuality, religious beliefs, race and professional experience would be in favor or against a Supreme Court nominee, whether respondents supported the Tea Party political movement, and whether the Tea Party, Democratic Party, or the Republican Party best represented their personal values, the needs of people like them, and best understood the economic problems of people in the country. Respondents were also asked whether they believed the support for the Tea Party movement was based on concern, dissatisfaction with the Republican Party, opposition to Obama and the Democratic Party's policies, based on distrust of government, or racial prejudice against Obama. Other topics covered included the national economy, the war in Afghanistan, the Supreme Court case Roe versus Wade, voter behavior for the United States House of Representatives election, and opinions of President Obama's birth place. Several questions addressed federal spending, the respondent's personal economic situation, and opinions on the war in Afghanistan. Demographic variables include sex, age, race, political philosophy, party affiliation, education level, religious preference, household income, and whether respondents considered themselves to be a born-again Christian.
Curated
ABC News/Washington Post Monthly Poll, August 2005 (ICPSR 4518)
Released/updated on: 2007-03-08
Geographic coverage: United States
This poll, fielded August 25-28, 2005, was undertaken to assess respondents' opinions on issues such as President George W. Bush's job performance on the war in Iraq, terrorism, gas prices, social security, the economy, abortion, and immigration. Respondents were asked similar questions regarding Congress. The survey contained questions concerning terrorist threats and the war in Iraq, including whether or not respondents felt troops should be withdrawn. Related questions asked for respondents' opinions regarding Cindy Sheehan and war protests. The survey also asked for opinions on the nomination of John J. Roberts to the Supreme Court, abortion, immigration, gasoline prices, and gay marriage. Respondents were also queried on how they felt about the Democratic Party's actions on the war, Roberts' nomination, and President Bush's policies. Demographic information includes political affiliation, political ideology, education, age, religious affiliation, military status, sex, race, and income.
Curated
ABC News/Washington Post Monthly Poll, August 2010 (ICPSR 32544)
Released/updated on: 2012-02-15
Geographic coverage: United States
Time period: 2010-08-01--2010-09-01
This poll, fielded August 30 - September 02, 2010, is a part of a continuing series of monthly surveys that solicits public opinion on the presidency and on a range of other political and social issues. Respondents were asked whether they approved of the way Barack Obama was handling his job as president, the economy, the federal budget deficit, and the situation in Iraq. Respondents were also asked whether they approved of the way the United States Congress was doing its job, whether they trusted the Democrats or the Republicans to do a better job in coping with the nation's problems in future years, handling the economy, health care, immigration issues, the situation in Afghanistan, taxes, and the federal budget deficit. Multiple questions addressed the 2010 congressional elections including whether respondents would vote for the Democratic or the Republican House of Representatives candidate in their district if the election were held that day, whether they thought most Republicans and Democrats in Congress deserved to be re-elected, whether they planned to re-elect their representative in Congress, and what respondents considered the single most important issue pertaining to their congressional vote. Information was collected on respondents' opinions on Islam, whether respondents had a good understanding of the beliefs of Islam, whether respondents personally knew anyone who was Muslim, whether they had some feelings of prejudice against Muslims, and whether they supported the building of a Muslim community center near the former World Trade Center site. Additional opinions were solicited about President Obama, the Tea Party movement, the state of the nation's economy, the war in Iraq, respondents' feelings about the way the federal government works, and national security. Demographic variables include sex, age, race, education level, household income, religious preference, type of residential area (e.g., urban or rural), political party affiliation, political philosophy, voter registration status, and whether respondents thought of themselves as born-again Christians.
Curated
ABC News/Washington Post Monthly Poll, December 2009 (ICPSR 29045)
Released/updated on: 2010-09-17
Geographic coverage: United States
This poll, fielded December 10-13 2009, is part of a continuing series of monthly surveys that solicit public opinion on the presidency and on a range of other political and social issues. Respondents were asked to give their opinions of President Barack Obama and his handling of the presidency, the federal budget deficit, health care, the situation in Afghanistan, unemployment, global warming, and the economy. Respondents were asked whether the Obama Administration or the Republicans in Congress could be trusted to do a better job handling the economy, health care reform, the situation in Afghanistan and energy policy. Several questions addressed health care including whether respondents supported the health care system being developed by Congress and the Obama Administration, whether they believed health care reform would increase the federal budget deficit, whether government should lower the age requirement for Medicare, and what the respondents' plan preference was for people who are not insured. Noneconomic questions focused on the role of the United States in Afghanistan, confidence in the Obama Administration in the handling of Afghanistan and the Taliban, and the environment. Other questions focused on the topics of health care in the United States, job availability, personal finances as well as opinions on professional golfer Tiger Woods. Demographic variables include sex, age, race, political political philosophy, party affiliation, education level, religious preference, household income, and whether respondents considered themselves to be a born-again Christian.
Curated
ABC News/Washington Post Monthly Poll, December 2010 (ICPSR 32547)
Released/updated on: 2012-01-24
Geographic coverage: United States
This poll, fielded December 9-12, 2010, is part of a continuing series of monthly surveys that solicit public opinion on the presidency and on a range of other political and social issues. A national sample of 1,001 adults was surveyed. Respondents were asked whether they approved of the way Barack Obama was handling the presidency, the economy, the war in Afghanistan, and the federal budget deficit. They were also asked whether they trusted President Obama or the Republicans in Congress more to do a better job with the economy, the federal budget deficit, the threat of terrorism, the situation in Afghanistan, health care reform, helping the middle class, and handling taxes. They were queried whether they thought the switch of control of the House of Representative from Democrats to Republicans was a good thing, whether the recession has hurt them financially, whether they thought the economy has begun to recover, whether anyone living in their household had been laid off or lost their job in the last year, and whether any close friends or immediate family members had been laid off or lost their job. They were asked what they thought was the best approach to the health care reform law, whether Obama was sincere in wanting to reduce the federal budget deficit, whether efforts to reduce the federal deficit should be taken now, and the best way to reduce the federal budget deficit. They were asked whether homosexuals who do not publicly disclose their sexual orientation should be allowed to serve in the military, whether the war in Afghanistan had contributed to the long term security of the United States, whether they supported the increase of United States and NATO forces, and whether United States forces should start withdrawing sooner than summer 2011. They were also queried on whether they heard about the released classified documents pertaining to the State Department and United States diplomacy by WikiLeaks and whether WikiLeaks founder Julian Assange should be arrested and charged with a crime for releasing these confidential documents. Respondents were also asked for whom they would vote for in the next presidential election. Demographic variables include sex, age, race, marital status, household income, education level, political party affiliation, political philosophy, political ideology, religious preference, whether they voted in the last election, and whether the respondent is a born-again Christian.
Curated
ABC News/Washington Post Monthly Poll, February 2009 (ICPSR 27762)
Released/updated on: 2010-04-30
Geographic coverage: United States
This poll, fielded February 19-22, 2009, is a part of a continuing series of monthly surveys that solicits public opinion on the presidency and on a range of other political and social issues. Opinions were sought on how well Barack Obama was handling the presidency, the economy, and appointments to his cabinet, and whether things in the country were generally going in the right direction. Respondents were asked whether they approved of the way Republicans and Democrats in Congress were doing their jobs, whether they trusted the Democrats in Congress, the Republicans in Congress or President Obama to do a better job in handling the economy and coping with the main problems the nation faced. Several questions addressed the stimulus plan asking respondents whether they supported the plan, whether the plan would help the local economy in their area or their personal financial situation, whether it would be enough to improve the economy, and whether the stimulus package went far enough in terms of tax cuts and aides to states and individuals. Information was collected on whether respondents were confident that the federal government would implement adequate controls to avoid fraud with the use of federal money used for the nation's economic recovery, how concerned they were about the size of the federal deficit, whether stricter regulations should be placed on the way financial institutions conduct business, whether the government should provide refinancing assistance to homeowners, and whether additional government loans should be given to United States automakers. Respondents were asked questions about the effect the economy had in their lives. They were asked how financially secure they felt, whether the recession hurt them financially, how optimistic they felt about the state of the economy and their family's financial situation, whether they had cut back on their spending, and whether the economic situation was a cause of stress in their lives. Respondents were also asked how long they thought the recession would last, how confident they were they would retire with enough income to sustain them for the rest of their lives, how concerned they were about having enough money to pay their rent or mortgage, and whether they or anyone they knew had experienced or was concerned about job loss or pay cuts. Other topics focused on the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan, and Washington DC's delegate in Congress being a nonvoting member of the United States House of Representatives. Demographic variables include sex, age, race, education level, marital status, political party affiliation, political philosophy, household income, religious preference, home ownership, and whether respondents considered themselves to be a born-again Christian.
Curated
ABC News/Washington Post Monthly Poll, February 2010 (ICPSR 30202)
Released/updated on: 2011-05-02
Geographic coverage: United States
This poll, fielded February 4-8, 2010, is part of a continuing series of monthly surveys that solicit public opinion on the presidency and on a range of other political and social issues. A national sample of 1,004 adults was surveyed. Respondents were asked whether they approved of the way Barack Obama was handling the presidency, the economy, health care, and the federal budget deficit, and whether they had a favorable opinion of Barack Obama. Respondents were queried on whether they approved of the way the United States Congress was doing its job, which party they trusted more to do a better job coping with the main problems the nation faces over the next few years, and how often they thought republicans in the Senate should use their power to block legislation proposed by President Obama and the Senate democrats. Respondents were asked whether they thought Obama was doing too much or too little to compromise with the republican leaders in Congress on important issues, whether they thought republican leaders were doing too much or too little to compromise with Obama on important issues, whether they thought the recession was over, or not over, and whether they thought the economy has or has not begun to recover. Information was collected on whether respondents support or oppose stricter federal regulations on the way banks and other financial institutions conduct their business, whether they support or oppose the proposed changes to the health care system, whether they think lawmakers in Washington should keep trying to pass a comprehensive health care reform plan, or should give up on it, and whether they have some form of health insurance or health care coverage. Respondents were asked if they had a favorable impression of the Democratic Party, the Republican Party, Sarah Palin, and the Tea Party, and whether or not they thought Palin was qualified to serve as president. Respondents were queried on whether they thought homosexuals who do not publicly disclose their sexual orientation should be allowed to serve in the military, whether they thought homosexuals who do publicly disclose their sexual orientation should be allowed to serve in the military, and whether they thought it should be legal or illegal for gay and lesbian couples to get married. Respondents were asked whether they would rather have suspects accused of involvement in the September 11 terrorist attacks be put on trial in the federal court system in the United States, or in a military tribunal, and whether they support or oppose the recent ruling by the Supreme Court that says corporations and unions can spend as much money as they want to help political candidates win elections. Finally respondents were asked whether they were inclined to vote to re-elect their representative in Congress in the next election, or whether they were inclined to look around for someone else to vote for, which party they would vote for in the upcoming United States House of Representatives elections, and whether their mood was anti-incumbent or pro-incumbent for the upcoming elections. Demographic variables include sex, age, race, household income, education level, political party affiliation, political philosophy, political ideology, religious preference, and whether the respondent is a born-again Christian.