Showing 1 – 50 of 424 results.
Curated
ABC News 9/11 Anniversary Poll, September 2006 (ICPSR 4665)
Released/updated on: 2008-01-24
Geographic coverage: United States
This special topic poll, conducted September 5-7, 2006, is a part of a continuing series of monthly polls that solicit public opinion on the presidency and on a range of political and social issues. The focus of this poll was the fifth anniversary of the September 11, 2001, terrorist attacks. Respondents were asked whether they approved of the way President George W. Bush was handling the presidency and issues such as the campaign against terrorism and the situation in Iraq. Information was collected on how closely respondents were following the upcoming congressional and gubernatorial election, whether they would vote for a Democratic or Republican candidate if the election for the United States House of Representatives were being held that day, and the single most important issue in their vote for Congress members. Other questions asked which political party they trusted to do a better job handling the main problems the nation would face over the next few years, and whether they approved of the way Congress and their own representative to the United States House of Representatives were handling their jobs. Views were also sought on the war in Iraq and Donald Rumsfield's handling of his job as Secretary of Defense. Respondents were asked how well they thought the campaign against terrorism was going, whether the country was safer from terrorism compared to before September 11, 2001, and whether Osama bin Laden would have to be captured or killed for the war on terrorism to be a success. Information was collected about the impact of the September 11, 2001, terrorist attacks on respondents' lives, how concerned they were about the possibility of more major terrorist attacks in the United States, how much confidence they had in the government's ability to prevent another major terrorist attack, whether the federal government was intruding on the privacy rights of Americans in its investigation of possible terrorist attacks, and whether this intrusion was justified. Additional topics addressed the religion of Islam, new airport security measures, and how proud they felt to be an American. Demographic variables include sex, age, race, education level, household income, voter registration and participation history, political party affiliation, political philosophy, employment status, marital status, and type of residential area (e.g., urban or rural).
Curated
ABC News Bergen Record New Jersey Election Poll, June 1994 (ICPSR 3844)
Released/updated on: 2005-01-19
Geographic coverage: United States, New Jersey
This special topic poll, fielded in New Jersey for the Bergen Record newspaper in June 1994, sought respondent views on the upcoming senatorial election and a range of social issues. Respondents were asked to provide approval ratings and opinions for New Jersey Governor Christie Whitman, United States Senator Bill Bradley, United States Senator Frank Lautenberg, and Republican senatorial candidate Chuck Haytaian. Those surveyed were asked whether they would vote for Lautenberg or Haytaian in the upcoming November senatorial election. Respondents were also asked to rate which qualities they looked for in a candidate, including experience in Washington, DC, whether the candidate represented change, and whether the candidate held views similar to the respondent. Opinions were solicited on the state of public schools and school vouchers, taxes, tax cuts, abortion, and assault rifles. Background information includes voter registration status, political identification, marital status, number of children, level of education completed, annual household income, religion, ethnicity, age, and sex.
Curated
ABC News "Good Morning America" Starr Report Poll #3, September 1998 (ICPSR 2640)
Released/updated on: 2008-09-11
Geographic coverage: United States
This special topic poll, fielded September 13, 1998, sought respondents' views on Independent Counsel Kenneth Starr's ongoing investigation of President Bill Clinton and the resulting Starr Report, submitted to the United States Congress on September 10, 1998. Respondents were asked for their opinions on whether Congress should hold hearings about the possible impeachment of Clinton or whether Congress should drop the matter. Those queried were asked whether they believed that the details of sexual encounters between Clinton and former White House intern Monica Lewinsky were included in the Starr Report to show that Clinton lied or merely to embarrass him. Respondents were also asked whether they believed that Clinton had done anything illegal regarding the Lewinsky matter and whether the president should resign, be impeached, or be censured if it were proven that he either lied under oath or asked his aides to lie under oath. Those queried were asked for their opinions of the Starr Report and the Clinton response to that report, in which the White House argued against impeachment. Respondents were asked whether they believed Starr or Clinton, whether they believed that the Starr Report was fair or politically motivated, and whether this was more a personal matter for Clinton or a public concern. The results of the poll were announced on the ABC television program "Good Morning America." Demographic information on respondents includes sex and political party affiliation.
Curated
ABC News Hurricane Katrina Anniversary Poll, August 2006 (ICPSR 4664)
Released/updated on: 2007-12-18
Geographic coverage: Mississippi, United States, Louisiana, New Orleans, Alabama
This special topic poll, conducted August 14-20, 2006, is part of a continuing series of monthly polls that solicit public opinion on various political and social issues. The focus of this data collection was on the one-year anniversary of Hurricane Katrina. Part 1, FEMA Counties, contains data from a sample of 501 adults living in counties in Louisiana, Mississippi, and Alabama that were designated as Hurricane Katrina disaster areas. Part 2, Orleans Parish Including Oversamples, contains data on respondents living in Orleans Parish, Louisiana, including oversamples of 160 respondents contacted via landline telephones, and 120 respondents contacted via cell phones. Respondents were asked to rate the recovery efforts of federal, state, and local governments with respect to Hurricane Katrina, and how much trust and confidence they had in the federal government and the Federal Emergency Management Agency's (FEMA) ability to respond to another disaster. Opinions were collected on whether Hurricane Katrina was the result of global climate change or just a severe weather event. Information was collected about the damage caused to respondents' residence and personal property, as well as the severity of the damage, how much of the losses were insured, and whether recovery had already occurred. Respondents were asked to rate the impact Hurricane Katrina had had on their life, whether they suffered a long-term negative impact on their finances, health, and emotional well-being, and whether any friends or family members were seriously injured or killed as as a result of the hurricane. A series of questions asked respondents to rate the job of groups involved with assisting recovery, such as the the United States Small Business Administration, state relief agencies, and insurance companies. Views were sought concerning whether respondents' trust in the government and fellow man was affected by the hurricane, how much they worried about another hurricane occurring, and how much extra stress was created by the possibility of another hurricane. Additional topics addressed whether race and poverty affected the recovery effort, and whether problems with the relief effort were an indication of racial inequality in the United States. Demographic variables include sex, age, race, education level, household income, political party affiliation, political philosophy, employment status, marital status, and type of residential area (e.g., urban or rural).
Curated
ABC News Iraq Poll, September 2002 (ICPSR 3555)
Released/updated on: 2005-12-15
Geographic coverage: United States
This special topic poll, conducted September 12-14, 2002, was undertaken to assess public opinion on the potential war against Iraq. Respondents were asked whether they approved of the way President George W. Bush was handling the situation with Iraq and Saddam Hussein, how important it was to force the Iraqi president from power, whether President Bush had a clear policy on Iraq, whether the Bush administration was overstating the level of threat from Iraq, whether it had done enough to win international support for taking military action against Iraq, whether Bush had presented enough evidence on why the United States should remove Saddam Hussein from power, and whether attacking/not attacking Iraq would create a greater risk of further terrorist attacks to the United States. Those polled also indicated their level of support for United States military action against Iraq. They were asked whether they would be for/against it if United States allies opposed such military action, if the United States used ground troops, if there was a significant number of United States military casualties, if Iraq agreed to let United Nations weapons inspectors back into the country, and if Iraq interfered or did not cooperate with United Nations weapons inspectors. Background information on respondents includes gender, age, education, political party affiliation, race, and Hispanic origin.
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 Media Poll, January 1997 (ICPSR 2171)
Released/updated on: 2008-08-05
Geographic coverage: United States
This special topic poll, conducted January 6-7, 1997, sought respondents' views on national and local media practices. Respondents were asked to rate the ethics and honesty of television and print news media, as well as of politicians, corporations, average Americans, and the Clinton Administration. Those polled were asked whether they approved of the way national network television and local television stations reported the news, and whether the news media cared more about the accuracy of a story or being the first to report it. Views were also sought on the media's treatment of politicians, various socioeconomic classes, religious and political groups, celebrities, the military, the police, the government, and corporations. Respondents also rated their enjoyment of news reports on celebrities and politicians, and commented on the relevance of news stories to their lives. Additional topics covered the influence of network television news on viewers, the benefits and drawbacks of investigative news reporting, the media's respect or disrespect of privacy, the power of the media to limit political corruption and unfair business practices, and how often respondents watched television evening news programs. Demographic variables included sex, race, age, education level, household income, employment status, political party affiliation, political philosophy, and type of residential area (e.g., urban or rural).
Curated
ABC News "Nightline" Crime Poll, November 1994 (ICPSR 3868)
Released/updated on: 2006-11-13
Geographic coverage: United States
This special topic poll, fielded November 17, 1994, was undertaken to assess public opinion on the issue of crime control and prison management. Respondents were asked what they believed was the most important problem facing the country and whether they believed that the federal government could do anything to resolve the problem of crime. Those surveyed were asked if they favored longer sentences for repeat offenders and if they would support the building of more prisons even if their taxes would increase as a result. Respondents were asked whether they agreed or disagreed with certain statements regarding progress in the crime problem and other issues. Additional questions asked respondents if they thought violent crime in the country was going up or down and if they were willing to give up freedoms to reduce crime and violence. The results of the poll were announced on the television program "Nightline." Background variables include political affiliation and sex.
Curated
ABC News O.J. Simpson and the Media Poll, July 1994 (ICPSR 3867)
Released/updated on: 2007-05-07
Geographic coverage: United States
This special topic poll, conducted by ABC News during July 1994, attempted to gauge opinion on the nationally televised O.J. Simpson trial. Respondents were also asked if they thought the country was going in the right direction or off track. Questions regarding the O.J. Simpson trial included how closely the respondents had been following the trial, whether they had seen the preliminary court hearing, how they would rate the media's coverage of the case, and if there was too much coverage of the case. Respondents were asked to speculate on coverage of the Simpson case and if the coverage had effected coverage of other stories, like domestic abuse. Respondents were asked whether they believed that Simpson would receive a fair trial, what they believed the verdict would be, and whether they believed he should get the death penalty if convicted. Background information includes level of education, age, ethnicity, and sex.
Curated
ABC News O.J. Simpson Domestic Violence Poll, June 1994 (ICPSR 3848)
Released/updated on: 2007-09-18
Geographic coverage: United States
This special topic poll, conducted June 19-23, 1994, was undertaken to assess respondents' views on O.J. Simpson and domestic violence. Respondents were asked whether they had heard about the case involving O.J. Simpson, whether they previously admired O.J. Simpson, whether they had lost their admiration for him, and if they still admired him for his previous accomplishments. Views were sought on how serious the problem of domestic violence was in the United States, whether police, prosecutors, judges, and laws were too tough or not tough enough in combating spouse abuse, and whether respondents would support or oppose a proposed law requiring police to arrest anyone seriously suspected of spouse abuse, even if the victim did not want to press charges. Respondents were also polled on whether they or a close friend or relative had ever been physically abused by their partner, how often it occurred, whether it was still continuing, whether it was reported to the police, whether the respondent was injured, and whether the abuser was arrested. Other topics addressed respondents' interest in professional football. Background variables include sex, age, and ethnicity.
Curated
ABC News Oklahoma City Bombing Poll, April 1995 (ICPSR 3841)
Released/updated on: 2007-07-03
Geographic coverage: United States
This special topic poll, fielded May 30, 1995, was undertaken to assess respondent views on the Oklahoma City bombing that took place on April 19, 1995. Questions gauged the respondent's faith in the government to catch the perpetrators of the bombing and their ability to prevent terrorist attacks against Americans. Respondents were also asked how concerned they were about the possibility of future terrorist attacks. Queries included whether the respondents were afraid that one of their friends or relatives might be the victim of a terrorist attack and whether the respondents would be willing to give up some liberties in order for the government to crack down on terrorism. Those surveyed were also asked to give their opinion on whether they believed the bombing was part of a wider conspiracy or the act of just a few terrorists. Demographic information includes party identification, ethnicity, and sex.
Curated
ABC News Pennsylvania Poll, September 2004 (ICPSR 4131)
Released/updated on: 2005-07-14
Geographic coverage: United States, Pennsylvania
This special topic poll, conducted September 9-12, 2004, is part of a continuing series of surveys that solicit public opinion on the presidency and on a range of other political and social issues. Residents of Pennsylvania were queried on their opinions regarding the upcoming 2004 presidential election. Questions addressed for whom respondents were going to vote in the 2004 presidential election, whether they considered themselves Democrats or Republicans, what they thought of President George W. Bush's handling of the presidency so far, and for whom they voted in the 2000 presidential election. Respondents were also asked questions comparing Bush and Senator John Kerry, including who would better handle various issues as president in areas such as economy, education, and the campaign against terrorism. Respondents compared Bush and Kerry with respect to traits such as leadership and values. Background information includes age, education, religion, urbanicity, marital status, 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 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, 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 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, 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 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-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-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 Privacy and Harassment Poll, June 1994 (ICPSR 3845)
Released/updated on: 2007-07-30
Geographic coverage: United States
This special topic poll was undertaken to assess respondents' opinions on and concerns about privacy and sexual harassment. Respondents were asked whether computers and technology, companies keeping personal information on their customers, credit agencies recording and disclosing credit information, and access to public government records by third parties constituted invasions of privacy. Respondents were polled on whether they worried about government agencies or private companies like credit card companies misusing their personal information or their personal information being accessed by hackers or by persons monitoring their phone conversations. In addition, respondents were asked whether they had ever been a victim of information misuse, whether they were concerned about the accuracy of public records about them, and whether there should be laws governing third party access to personal information without consumer consent, the inclusion of corrections and criticisms of personal information, notification of the types of information held by an organization about an individual, and access to one's personal information for a minimal fee. Opinions were gathered on President Clinton's handling of relations with North Korea, whether the United Nations should have imposed a trade embargo on North Korea, whether the United States and its allies should have taken military action against North Korea, and whether dealings with North Korea involved interests vital to the United States. Respondents were also queried on whether sexual harassment in the workplace was a problem in the United States, whether respondents themselves had ever been harassed, and if they reported the harassment, the outcomes of reporting the harassment, the reasons one may or may not report sexual harassment, and whether the accuser or accused is more likely to be believed in sexual harassment cases. Views were gathered on whether it is easy or hard to legally file sexual harassment charges, whether sexual harassment may be brought on by one's clothing and/or behavior, whether President Clinton sexually harassed former Arkansas state employee Paula Jones, and whether Supreme Court Justice Clarence Thomas sexually harassed Anita Hill. Demographic information includes age, education, ethnicity, employment status, political orientation, and sex.
Curated
ABC News Reagan Tax Reform Speech Poll, May 1985 (ICPSR 8567)
Released/updated on: 2006-12-13
Geographic coverage: United States
Federal income tax reform is the central topic of this survey. Respondents were asked for their opinions on the following: the amount of tax they pay, difficulties in filling out the tax forms, the importance of simplifying the tax system and/or making it fairer, President Reagan's proposal to simplify the system, and the impact of the reform proposal on the amount of tax the respondent would expect to pay. Demographic characteristics also are included.
Curated
ABC News Saddam Hussein Capture Poll, December 2003 (ICPSR 3944)
Released/updated on: 2004-10-01
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. The focus of this data collection was on the situation in Iraq and the recent capture of former Iraqi leader Saddam Hussein. Those surveyed were asked to give their approval rating of President George W. Bush and his handling of the situation in Iraq. Respondents were asked to assess the costs/benefits of the Iraq War and to comment on whether they thought it was worth fighting or not, if they had heard of the capture of Saddam Hussein, and whether they thought that his capture meant "the big challenges facing the United States in Iraq are over." Those polled were asked for their opinion on whether the capture of Saddam Hussein would help to restore peace and stability in Iraq, would help to end attacks on United States and coalition forces in Iraq, would contribute to long-term peace and stability in the Mideast, and would also contribute to the long-term security of the United States. Respondents were asked if they believed that United States forces should leave Iraq now that Saddam Hussein had been captured, or if the forces should remain in Iraq until a stable government was in place. Additional questions included whether those surveyed felt that Saddam Hussein should be put on trial by an Iraqi tribunal or a United Nations tribunal, and what punishment they preferred for him. Respondents' perceptions of the progress in Iraq was also measured. Demographic information includes political affiliation and gender.
Curated
ABC News September 11th Adult Poll, September 2002 (ICPSR 3553)
Released/updated on: 2005-12-15
Geographic coverage: United States
This special topic poll, conducted September 5-8, 2002, was undertaken to assess respondents' feelings a few days before the first anniversary of the September 11, 2001, terrorist attack, as well as to gauge their opinions on the way the United States was dealing with the war on terrorism. Those polled described their feelings both right after the September 11th attack and one year later. They were asked what they were doing when they first heard about the attacks, whether they had problems sleeping or felt depressed because of terrorist attacks and the war against terrorism, whether they planned to change their normal routines on the first anniversary of the September 11th attack, whether the terrorist attacks changed their country and their personal lives, whether they became suspicious of people of Arab descent, and whether they felt that they personally could be victims of a terrorist attack. Another subject of this survey was the war on terrorism. Respondents commented on the way the United States was handling the campaign against terror, rated the president's performance and that of other officials/institutions/organizations that were dealing with the events of September 11th and the war on terrorism, and indicated whether they thought the campaign against terror was going well in general. They also identified countries that did "enough or not enough" to support the United States campaign against terrorism, and evaluated the job done by the United States in terms of preventing further terrorist attacks, breaking up the al Qaeda network, improving United States intelligence, and reorganizing government agencies. Respondents provided their views on whether the United States was doing enough in its anti-terrorism campaign to win the support of other countries and Muslims around the world, whether the anti-terrorism activities of the federal government were posing a threat to their constitutional rights, and whether the Bush administration was accurately describing the level of threat the country was facing from terrorism. With regard to Osama bin Laden, respondents were asked how confident they were that the United States would capture or kill Osama bin Laden and if the war on terrorism could be a success without capturing or killing him. Those polled expressed their concerns about the possibility of further terrorist attacks, and their confidence in the ability of the United States government to prevent them. Some questions focused on flying, including whether respondents had flown on a commercial airplane after September 11, 2001, whether they worried about flying because of the risk of terrorism, and whether airport security was better than before September 11, 2001. Additionally, respondents were asked whether terrorism or the economy was a bigger problem, whether they were optimistic or pessimistic about the future of their country, whether spending time with their families was important to them, how proud they were to be Americans, whether they were displaying an American flag, and if so, when they started doing that. Background information on respondents includes gender, age, education, religion and religiosity, political party affiliation, political orientation, race, Hispanic origin, children under age 18 living at home, and subjective size of community.
Curated
ABC News September 11th Anniversary Poll, September 2003 (ICPSR 3939)
Released/updated on: 2004-03-30
Geographic coverage: United States
This special topic poll, conducted September 4-7, 2003, is part of a continuing series of monthly surveys that solicit public opinion on a range of political and social issues. The poll was conducted a few days before the second anniversary of the September 11, 2001 terrorist attack. Respondents were asked to give their opinions of President George W. Bush and his handling of the presidency, foreign policy, the economy, the United States campaign against terrorism, and the situation in Iraq. Those polled were asked whether terrorism or the economy was a bigger problem, whether they supported the Bush administration's policy on Iraq and the United States military presence there, whether the number of United States military casualties was acceptable, and how well the United States was doing in restoring order in Iraq. Specific questions asked whether the war in Iraq was worth fighting, whether it was part of or separate from the war against terrorism, whether it would decrease terrorism in the long run, and whether it would be a success if Saddam Hussein was not killed or captured. Respondents were asked to rate the performance of groups, institutions, and individuals in dealing with the events of September 11, 2001, and the war on terrorism. They were also asked to evaluate the job done by the United States in preventing terrorist attacks, winning the cooperation of other countries in fighting terrorism, breaking up the al Qaeda network, improving United States intelligence, and reorganizing government agencies. Questions sought respondent views on whether Osama bin Laden had to be captured or killed in order to win the war on terrorism, and whether other countries had done enough to support the United States campaign against terrorism. Respondents were asked to comment on their feelings about the terrorist attacks of September 11, 2001, how often they thought about it, whether it changed the United States and the respondent's life, whether the changes were long- or short-term, big or small, positive or negative, if spending time with family was important to them, how concerned they were about being a victim of a terrorist attack, and how concerned they were about the possibility of more terrorist attacks in the United States. A series of questions addressed whether respondents worried about flying because of the risk of terrorism, if the respondent had flown on a commercial airplane since September 11, 2001, if airport security was better than before the attacks, whether security measures were justified, the usefulness of the government's threat alert system, and whether the United States was safer from terrorism than before the attacks. Opinions were also solicited on whether the United States government was doing enough to protect the rights of American citizens, Arab-Americans, non-citizens, and terrorist suspects, if the federal government was intruding on the respondent's personal privacy rights and whether this was justified, and whether it was more important for the FBI to investigate possible terrorist threats even if it intruded on personal privacy, or for the FBI not to intrude on personal privacy, even if it limited its ability to investigate possible threats. Respondents were also polled on whether they would support or oppose the federal government holding suspected terrorists without trial and using physical torture in an attempt to get information from them. Additional questions addressed whether respondents felt they had a good understanding of the beliefs of Islam, whether it taught respect for the beliefs of non-Muslims, and if their opinion of Islam was favorable or unfavorable. Background variables include age, sex, education, ethnicity, religion, political orientation, political party affiliation, subjective size of community, and household income.
Curated
ABC News September 11th Teen Poll, August 2002 (ICPSR 3561)
Released/updated on: 2005-12-15
Geographic coverage: United States
This special topic poll, conducted August 25-28, 2002, was undertaken to assess opinions of teens about the September 11, 2001, terrorist attacks. Teens were asked whether they were optimistic or pessimistic about the future of the country, whether they were optimistic or pessimistic about their personal future, how proud they were to be an American, what they planned to do after high school, how involved they felt their parents or guardians were in their lives, how much stress they had in their lives, whether they felt depressed, and how safe they felt in their day-to-day lives. They were also asked how safe they would feel flying in an airplane, being in a tall building, being in a big city, or being in a crowded place. Other survey questions queried the teen respondents about how often they thought about the terrorist attacks that took place in New York and Washington, DC, on September 11, 2001, whether their lives had changed since then, and whether they had made any changes in their personal plans for the future because of the attacks. Respondents were also asked if their parents had made any new rules about where they were allowed to go, whether they had to check in with their parents, whether they felt they knew how their parents felt about what happened September 11, 2001, and whether they felt the same way about the attacks as their parents. Teens were also asked if, right after the attacks, they had felt frightened about what happened, scared that there might be more terrorist attacks, worried about their own personal safety, worried about the safety of any friends or relatives, confused about who would do this and why, angry at the people who had perpetrated the attacks, or confident that the United States would handle the problem, and whether they continued to feel those things now. Additional questions probed for whether they had trouble sleeping right after the attacks or trouble now, whether they felt they had a good basic understanding of Islam, and whether they had heard any other kids or adults say prejudiced things about Muslims, Arabs, or Arab-Americans. Background information on respondents includes age, gender, education, and whether they lived in a large city, suburb, small town, or rural area.
Curated
ABC News/Time Magazine Obesity Poll, May 2004 (ICPSR 4040)
Released/updated on: 2004-08-12
Geographic coverage: United States
This special topic poll, conducted May 10-16, 2004, was undertaken to assess public opinion on the problem of obesity in the United States. Respondents were asked to rate their own personal health and the importance of a healthy diet and physical exercise in their lives. Questions were posed regarding how often respondents and their children watched television, used the Internet, e-mail, or computer games for personal use, and engaged in moderate or vigorous physical exercise, how much influence their children had on what food the family ate, whether they kept a supply of fresh fruits and vegetables in their home, and whether they or their children were overweight. Respondents were polled on how often they ate at fast-food restaurants, whether they tried to track the amount of calories, carbohydrates, and fat content in their daily diets, whether they wanted to lose or gain weight, whether they had followed any type of weight-loss program, and whether it had helped them. Several questions asked about the hardest part of losing weight, the biggest causes of obesity in the United States, whether respondents had ever felt that they were discriminated against because of their weight, whether they had any negative feelings about people who were overweight, and whether certain groups or institutions such as the fast-food industry and government policies and laws bore any responsibility for the nation's obesity problem. Respondents were also polled on whether they would support or oppose government policies such as a tax on high-fat or high-sugar foods, requiring labels on certain foods warning of the health risks of being overweight, and setting a legal limit on portion sizes in restaurants. Other topics addressed whether health insurance companies should be able to drop coverage or charge higher premiums to people who are overweight, whether schools should be allowed to raise money by allowing soda and candy vending machines in school, the seriousness of problems such as cancer, AIDS, cigarette smoking, obesity, and drug and alcohol abuse as public health issues, and whether the federal government was doing enough about these problems. Background information includes sex, ethnicity, education, marital status, household income, number and sex of children in household, weight and height of respondents and children, and subjective size of the community: rural, urban, or suburban.
Curated
ABC News/USA Today/KFF Poll, September 2006 (ICPSR 4666)
Released/updated on: 2007-10-30
Geographic coverage: United States
This poll, conducted September 7-12, 2006, is part of a continuing series of monthly polls that solicit public opinion on various political and social issues. Respondents were asked which issues would be most important in their vote for Congress later that year, which party they trusted more to handle health care issues, how satisfactory the quality and total cost of health care was, and whether or not the number of Americans without insurance was a critical problem. Information was collected on the status of the respondents' own health insurance, including whether they were insured or not, what type of insurance they had, and how long they had been uninsured. Views were sought on whether health care premiums had been rising, why they were rising, how it had affected their household, and how job loss would affect the status and cost of health insurance. A series of questions asked whether new treatments should always be covered, whether efforts should go toward reducing health care costs or reducing the number of Americans without insurance, and whether there should be a universal health insurance program. The respondents rated the effectiveness of the current health insurance system, and they were asked under what conditions a universal health insurance program would be supported. They were also asked their opinions on whether or not employers should be obligated to provide coverage, and whether tax breaks should be offered to companies. Additional topics addressed terminally ill patients and the expense of keeping them alive. Demographic variables include sex, age, race, education level, household income, political party affiliation, political philosophy, employment status, and marital status.
Curated
ABC News/Washington Post AMAL Hijacking Poll, June 1985 (ICPSR 8569)
Released/updated on: 2007-07-03
Geographic coverage: United States
The hijacking of a TWA plane by Arab terrorists on June 14, 1985 is the focus of this survey. Respondents were asked if they approved of Ronald Reagan's handling of the hostage situation, if the United States should be negotiating for the release of the hostages, and if the United States should request Israel to meet the terrorists' demands for the release of Shiite Moslems being held prisoner. Other questions posed include whether the United States should reduce its ties to Israel and whether military action should be undertaken against terrorism in the Middle East even if it risks a larger war. An assessment of the actions of the Israeli government also is provided. Demographic characteristics are included as well.
Curated
ABC News/Washington Post Bitburg Poll, April 1985 (ICPSR 8564)
Released/updated on: 2007-07-03
Geographic coverage: United States
The focus of this survey is Ronald Reagan's scheduled visit to Bitburg cemetery during his trip to West Germany in May 1985. Respondents were asked for their opinions of the visit, whether it would dishonor either the Holocaust victims or American soldiers who had fought in World War II, and whether Reagan's proposed visit to Bergen-Belsen concentration camp would counter objections to the Bitburg visit. In addition, respondents were asked for their perceptions of how the news media and White House had handled the planned trip. Demographic data on respondents also are included.
Curated
ABC News/Washington Post Bork Vote Poll, October 1987 (ICPSR 8888)
Released/updated on: 2007-07-03
Geographic coverage: United States
The nomination of Robert Bork to the Supreme Court was the subject of this survey. Respondents were asked if they approved of the nomination and why or why not, if they felt Bork was qualified, whether the Senate should consider both Bork's qualifications and political views in deciding upon his nomination, and whether a Senate candidate's opposition to Bork would make any difference to the respondent. Additional questions included whether respondents had received anything in the mail, received telephone calls, or seen advertisements either in support of or in opposition to Bork, and if they felt any groups or individuals had too much influence in the nomination process. Demographic characteristics of respondents are included.
Curated
ABC News/Washington Post Budget Agreement Poll, September 1990 (ICPSR 9559)
Released/updated on: 2006-12-22
Geographic coverage: United States
Time period: 1990-09-12--1990-09-13
This data collection focuses on issues related to the federal budget deficit. Respondents were asked if they approved of the way Bush and the Democrats in Congress were handling the federal budget deficit, if it was necessary for the government to raise taxes to help balance the federal budget deficit, and if they approved of various measures in the agreed-upon budget deficit reduction plan. Other topics covered include reduction of the capital gains tax on profits from sale of investments, increasing the amount of Social Security benefits that can be taxed, and the feasibility of the deficit reduction package. Background information on respondents includes political alignment, race, income, sex, and state/region of residence.
Curated
ABC News/Washington Post Cease Fire Poll, March 1991 (ICPSR 9608)
Released/updated on: 1992-02-17
Geographic coverage: United States
Time period: 1991-03-01--1991-03-03
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, the environment, foreign affairs, and whether Bush was able to deal with major problems facing the nation. In addition, respondents were questioned in depth regarding the situation in the Persian Gulf, including whether a large number of United States soldiers should remain in the Persian Gulf to help maintain peace, whether the United States could claim a victory if Saddam Hussein remained in power, if the Middle East would be more stable as a result of the war, and if the war would leave the United States in a stronger position in the world. Respondents were also asked if their decisions to vote to re-elect a representative or senator would be influenced by that individual's voting against the resolution that authorized George Bush to start the Gulf War, if they had gained or lost respect for certain countries and certain people as a result of the war, and if the war was worth fighting considering the costs versus the benefits to the United States. Among the other subjects addressed were federal energy policy, trade restrictions with Mexico, an international conference on the Arab-Israeli problem, and relations between Israel and the Palestinians. 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/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 Education Poll, September 1981 (ICPSR 8018)
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 collection focuses on perceptions of education in the United States. The poll consisted of interviews with school principals and the general population. The data are contained in two datasets. Part 1, Principals Survey, contains data on the number and racial mix of students in the respondents' schools. Respondents were also questioned about discipline problems, competency tests, busing to achieve integration, television and homework, parental involvement in school decision-making, budget cutbacks, school performance, and their personal occupational history. Part 2, General Public Survey, contains information on the respondents' confidence levels in public institutions, perceived problems in their local high school, the value of school programs, functions of schools, educational discipline, the education of their children, and their opinions of President Ronald Reagan. Demographic information was collected, including respondents' sex, age, race, occupation, education and income levels, marital status, number of children, political party identification, and voting behavior.
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 2000 (ICPSR 3072)
Released/updated on: 2001-05-29
Geographic coverage: United States
Time period: 2000-09-04--2000-09-06
This poll, fielded September 4-6, 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 and Connecticut senator Joseph Lieberman (Democratic Party), Texas governor George W. Bush and former Secretary of Defense Dick Cheney (Republican Party), conservative commentator Pat Buchanan and educator Ezola Foster (Reform Party), and consumer advocate Ralph Nader and activist Winona LaDuke (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, reforming election campaign finance laws, handling abortion, managing the federal budget, handling the issue of prescription drug benefits for the elderly, handling national defense and the military budget, helping the middle class, handling crime, protecting the environment, and reducing political partisanship in Washington. Views were sought on whether presidential debates should be held and which candidates should be invited to participate. Respondents were also 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, was honest and trustworthy, would be a good commander- in-chief, had high personal, moral, and ethical standards, would unite people, had taken a clear stand on the issues, cared about the less fortunate, had an appealing personality, and had the right kind of experience to be president. Respondents' opinions were sought 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. Support for the following proposals was assessed: a large tax cut across the board or smaller tax cuts for the lower and middle class, a plan that would allow people to invest some of their Social Security earnings in the stock market, and a federal plan that would give parents money to send their children to private or religious schools instead of local public schools that were not meeting state standards. Additional topics covered abortion, the status of United States military strength over the past eight years, whether presidential candidates should discuss their religious beliefs, voter intentions in terms of the 2000 Congressional elections, whether the candidates were conducting positive or negative campaigns, and whether the country needed a fresh start after the Clinton era. 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, marital status, children in household, neighborhood characteristics, number of hours per day spent watching television, and whether the respondent considered himself/herself a morning person.
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 Labor Day Poll, September 2007 (ICPSR 24590)
Released/updated on: 2009-06-04
Geographic coverage: United States
This poll, fielded September 4-7, 2007, is a 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 the way George W. Bush was handling his job as president, whether they approved of the way he was handling the situation in Iraq, and whether they approved of his handling of the United States campaign against terrorism. Respondent's opinions were solicited on whether they trusted the Democrats or the Republicans to do a better job in handling the war in Iraq and the campaign against terrorism. Respondents were asked for their opinions on multiple issues associated with the war in Iraq such as whether the war was worth fighting, whether respondents thought the United States would win or lose the war, how confident respondents were in the Iraqi government to fulfill their commitment to restore civil order in Iraq, whether the war had contributed to the security of the United States, and whether the United States had made progress toward restoring civil order in Iraq. Questions about the United States military force focused on whether respondents thought the increase in United States forces improved the situation in Iraq and Iraq's security situation within a few months, whether military forces should be further increased or decreased in Iraq, and whether withdrawing from Iraq would do more to increase the risk of a terrorist attack occurring in the United States. Additional questions addressed whether respondents were satisfied with the choice of candidates for the 2008 presidential election and for whom they were going to vote, General David Petraeus' progress report on the war in Iraq, respondent's confidence in the ability of the government to prevent further terrorist attacks against Americans, whether the war on terrorism could be a success without the United States winning the war, and whether the country was safer at the time of this poll versus September 11, 2001. Demographic information includes sex, age, race, education level, household income, military service, religious preference, type of residential area (e.g., urban or rural), political party affiliation, political philosophy, and voter registration status.
Curated
ABC News/Washington Post Poll #1, February 2000 (ICPSR 2966)
Released/updated on: 2000-12-22
Geographic coverage: United States
This poll, fielded February 1, 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 Democratic candidates Vice President Al Gore and former New Jersey senator Bill Bradley, Republican candidates Texas governor George W. Bush and Arizona senator John McCain, and the Reform Party candidate, conservative commentator Pat Buchanan. Views were sought on which of the candidates could be described as understanding the problems of people such as the respondent, a strong leader, possessing the experience to be president, capable of bringing needed change to Washington, DC, inspiring, most knowledgeable on world affairs, making the best commander-in-chief, and which candidate worried them. Respondents were asked for whom they would vote in a Republican primary or caucus given a choice between Bush, McCain, radio talk show host Alan Keyes, and publisher Steve Forbes, and for whom they would vote in a Democratic primary or caucus given a choice between Gore and Bradley. A final question sought respondents' views on which of the following issues was most important in deciding for whom to vote in a presidential primary: world affairs, campaign finance reform, abortion, Social Security/Medicare, moral values, taxes, or education. Background information on respondents includes age, gender, political orientation, voter registration status, education, Hispanic origin, labor union membership, military status, and household income.
Curated
ABC News/Washington Post Poll #1, October 1991 (ICPSR 9755)
Released/updated on: 2007-05-17
Geographic coverage: United States
Time period: 1991-10-15--1991-10-20
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 most important problem facing this country, who was most responsible for doing something about this problem, and which political party better represented the interests of poor people, rich people, and the middle class. In addition, respondents were questioned on whether they thought people in government wasted a lot of money and whether most of them were dishonest. Respondents were also asked if they had a favorable impression of certain people who might run in the presidential election, whom they would vote for if the House of Representatives election were held that day, and toward which candidate they were leaning. Other subjects addressed included whether respondents supported a federal law requiring businesses with more than 50 employees to allow workers 12 weeks of unpaid leave and a federal law giving unemployed people as much as 20 weeks of extra unemployment benefits, whether the United States should cut military spending because of the changes in the Soviet Union, and whether the Senate should have confirmed Clarence Thomas's nomination to the Supreme Court. 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/Washington Post Poll #1, September 1990 (ICPSR 9557)
Released/updated on: 1992-02-17
Geographic coverage: United States
Time period: 1990-09-06--1990-09-09
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. Major topics covered include Iraq's invasion of Kuwait, the economy, the federal government, and the upcoming congressional election. Respondents were asked if they approved of the way Bush, King Hussein of Jordan, Mikhail Gorbachev, and Jesse Jackson were handling the situation caused by Iraq's invasion of Kuwait, how important it was for Iraq to withdraw from Kuwait, if they approved of Bush's decision to send American military forces to the Persian Gulf, if they thought Bush had been tough enough with Iraq, if the United States should strike first against Iraq, if the United States would have to get involved in a land war with Iraq, and if the economic boycott would make Iraq withdraw from Kuwait. Concerning economic issues, respondents were questioned about consumer prices and taxes. They were also asked for their opinions on which country was the strongest economic power, whether life was easier or harder for young people currently, and whether it would be easier or harder ten years from now. Other questions revolved around confidence in various American institutions, respondent's trust in the federal government, the level of ethics and honesty in politics, the degree to which public officials care about people like the respondent, and the importance of various political and social issues in deciding which candidate and political party to vote for on election day. Background information on respondents includes political alignment, 1988 presidential vote choice, registered voter status, education, age, religion, social class, marital status, number of people in the household, labor union membership, employment status, race, income, sex, and state/region of residence.
Curated
ABC News/Washington Post Poll #2, February 2000 (ICPSR 2967)
Released/updated on: 2001-07-03
Geographic coverage: United States
This poll, fielded February 22, 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 upcoming November 7, 2000, presidential election and for whom they would vote if the election were held that day, given a choice between Democratic candidates Vice President Al Gore or former New Jersey senator Bill Bradley, and Republican candidates Texas governor George W. Bush or Arizona senator John McCain. Views were sought on which of the candidates could be described as understanding the problems of people such as the respondent, a strong leader, saying what he thinks even if it is not popular, capable of bringing needed change to Washington, DC, innovative, most knowledgeable on world affairs, running a positive campaign, has a chance of winning the election, and is best able to maintain a strong economy. Respondents were asked for whom they would vote in a Republican primary or caucus given a choice between Bush, McCain, and radio talk show host Alan Keyes, and for whom they would vote in a Democratic primary or caucus given a choice between Gore and Bradley. Additional questions addressed whether personal character or position on the issues was more important when choosing a president, whether the candidates had explained what they would do if elected, whether Bush would be able to keep the federal budget balanced and cut income taxes at the same time, whether the fact that Gore had served with President Clinton for eight years made respondents more or less likely to vote for him, and whether respondents intended to vote for the Democratic or Republican candidate in the 2000 congressional election. Background information on respondents includes age, gender, political orientation, political party, education, Hispanic origin, labor union membership, military status, voter registration history, and household income.
Curated
ABC News/Washington Post Poll #2, October 1991 (ICPSR 9754)
Released/updated on: 2008-02-04
Geographic coverage: United States
Time period: 1991-10-24--1991-10-27
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 respondents' confidence in certain institutions, federal, state, and local taxes, government spending, Dan Quayle's work as vice president, and the things they liked and disliked about the Democratic and Republican parties. Respondents also were asked whether they ever voted for a Democratic or Republican presidential candidate in a general election, which problems were important in deciding how to vote for president, whom they would vote for as president if the 1992 election were held that day, and toward which candidate they were leaning. Background information on respondents includes political alignment, 1988 presidential vote choice, education, age, religion, origin of ancestors, 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/Washington Post Poll #2, September 1990 (ICPSR 9558)
Released/updated on: 2007-07-30
Geographic coverage: United States
Time period: 1990-09-20--1990-09-24
This data collection focuses on the federal budget deficit and on issues dealing with the rich and the poor in America. Respondents were asked if they approved of the way George Bush, Democrats in Congress, and Republicans in Congress were handling the the federal budget deficit, and who was more to blame for the larger deficit. Additionally, respondents were asked how much money it takes to be rich in the United States, whether they would want to be rich, how likely it was that they would ever be rich or poor, whether the percentage of Americans who are rich was increasing, and whether they respected and admired rich people. Other questions asked respondents if they characterized rich people as more likely to be honest, snobbish, intelligent, and a variety of other traits, whether respondents would be more or less likely to vote for a candidate who was a millionaire/self-made millionaire, and which political party better represented the interests of poor, rich, and middle class people. Background information on respondents includes political alignment, 1988 presidential vote choice, registered voter status, education, age, religion, social class, marital status, number of people in the household, labor union membership, employment status, race, income, sex, and state/region of residence.
Curated
ABC News/Washington Post Poll, April 1987 (ICPSR 8844)
Released/updated on: 2007-07-09
Geographic coverage: United States
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. Topics covered include the Iran arms sale, President Reagan and the Congress, the 65 miles per hour highway bill, air travel, commercial airlines and the effects of deregulation, federal income taxes and the new W-4 form, the Constitution, the best and worst presidents within the respondent's lifetime, and 1988 presidential candidates. Demographic characteristics of respondents also were recorded.
Curated
ABC News/Washington Post Poll, April 2000 (ICPSR 3053)
Released/updated on: 2001-03-26
Geographic coverage: United States
This poll, fielded March 28, 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 (Democrat) and Texas governor George W. Bush (Republican). Views were sought on the importance of a list of issues to the respondent's electoral decision and which candidate could be trusted to address them. The list of issues included gun control, campaign finance reform, protecting patients' rights in the health care system, Social Security, taxes, the economy, crime, foreign affairs, education, encouraging high moral standards, the federal budget, protecting the environment, abortion, the death penalty, and women's issues. Respondents were asked whether federal spending on education should be increased, whether they supported or opposed a plan to reduce federal education spending in school districts whose students don't improve on standardized tests, and whether federal money should be used to send children to private schools in areas where the local public schools were not improving. A series of questions addressed crime control, including respondent support for gun control, whether stricter gun control laws would reduce the amount of violent crime, the best way to reduce violent crime, and the influence of the National Rifle Association (NRA). Attitudes were also elicited regarding whether campaign finance reform would reduce the influence of money in politics and the most effective ways to reduce improper campaign fundraising. Respondents were asked whether they favored a smaller government with fewer services or a larger government with more services and how often they trusted the government. An additional question sought respondents' opinions on whether Elian Gonzalez, the six-year-old Cuban boy whose mother drowned when they attempted to immigrate to Florida, should be returned to his father in Cuba or allowed to remain with his relatives in Miami. Background information on respondents includes age, gender, political party, political orientation, voter registration and participation history, education, religion, labor union membership, household gun ownership, Hispanic origin, household income, and children in household.
Curated
ABC News/Washington Post Poll, April 2002 (ICPSR 3433)
Released/updated on: 2002-06-27
Geographic coverage: United States
This poll is a 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, and the situation between Israel and the Palestinians. Respondents also expressed their views on the United States campaign against terrorism, the situation regarding Osama bin Laden, and the support given to the United States by Muslim people around the world. In addition, respondents voiced their concerns about more future terrorist attacks on the United States, their feelings toward Israel and the Palestinians, and their views on the role of the United States in the conflict between Israel and the Palestinians and the pursuit of peace in the Middle East. The poll elicited respondents' views on the influence of Secretary of State Colin Powell's visit to the Middle East on the prospects for peace, the negotiations and actions taken by Israel and the Palestinians, the responsibility of the leader of the Palestinian Authority Yasser Arafat for terrorist attacks against Israel by Palestinians, the support of the United States for Israel, and the United States efforts in the war on terrorism. Respondents also answered a set of questions regarding the Catholic Church, its handling the issue of sexual abuse of children by priests, the level of trust respondents felt toward the Church in handling this issue in the future, their opinions of Cardinal Bernard Law of Boston, who was accused of mishandling the issue of sexual abuse of children by priests, and the outcome of the American cardinals' meeting at the Vatican. Background information on respondents includes age, gender, political party, education, religion and religious activities, Hispanic origin, race, and household income.
Curated
ABC News/Washington Post Poll, April 2007 (ICPSR 24586)
Released/updated on: 2009-05-26
Geographic coverage: United States
This poll, conducted April 12-15, 2007, 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. Respondents were asked whether they approved of the way George W. Bush was handling his job as president, whether they approved of the way Congress and their own representative in the United States House of Representatives were handling their jobs, and to compare how President Bush and the Democrats in Congress were handling issues such as the economy and the United States campaign against terrorism. Opinions were solicited on Speaker of the House Nancy Pelosi, Majority leader of the Senate Harry Reid, the 2008 potential presidential candidates, and how much progress Congress had made in the three months prior to the poll. Respondents were asked how closely they were following the 2008 presidential race, for whom they would vote if the 2008 Democratic and Republican primaries were being held that day and how strongly they supported that candidate, which candidate they thought would win their party's nomination, and how much respondents knew about their candidate's position on specific issues. Several questions asked about the war in Iraq, including whether the war in Iraq was worth fighting, whether the United States was winning the war in Iraq, whether the United States should keep military forces in Iraq until civil order is restored, whether Bush's decision to send additional military forces to Iraq was supported, and whether the United States should set a deadline for withdrawing its forces from Iraq. Respondents were also asked a few questions about Democratic presidential candidate John Edwards, including whether they would be more likely to vote for John Edwards because his wife, Elizabeth, has cancer, and whether John Edwards should suspend his campaign due to his wife's illness. Additional topics included United States Attorney General Alberto Gonzales' handling of the firing of eight chief federal prosecutors, embryonic stem cell research, illegal immigrants, the condition of the nation's economy, gas price increases, and the firing of radio personality Don Imus due to making racially insensitive remarks during his radio show. This poll surveyed an oversample of African American respondents. Demographic information includes voter registration status and participation history, sex, age, race, income, marital status, religious preference, education level, type of residential area (e.g., urban or rural), political philosophy, political party affiliation, whether the respondent or anyone in the home was a military veteran, and whether the respondent or anyone in the household was a member of a labor union.