We typically consider elections as accountability devices, the time when people can rebuke those in power and replace them with someone else. The people ultimately decide. Less understood, elections are important instruments of government power and authority. In fact the chief reason elections exist at all is because they benefit governments. This interpretation allows us to think more clearly about the role of democratic institutions and citizen participation.
Category Archives: public opinion
Mass shootings involving political figures
After mass shooting involving members of congress, many people attributed blame to heated partisan rhetoric. Why? Does it matter?
As the pandemic hit, most Americans were willing to get vaccinated – then politics happened
Yes, American’s willingness to get vaccinated changed a lot over the past 12 months. See why.
Should we get rid of it? Thoughts on the Electoral College – Part 2
Support for the Electoral College and the popular vote hinge on election outcomes not democratic values.
Considering President Biden’s first job approval rating
Biden’s first job approval ratings offer several interpretations. Which do you prefer?
Four surprising data points to consider as we head down the stretch
Let’s consider several data points not well publicized but could be important in the final weeks.
Part 2. Concerned about Expressing Your Beliefs? You are not Alone.
People think the political climate prevents them from saying things they believe – because others might find it offensive. As it turns out, social confrontation is not the only thing people are anxious about.
Data Bites – brief posts about public opinion. What Independents think?
Several results from a recent YouGov Survey caught my eye. Thought you might find them interesting. I examined Independent voters…
Obama and Trump. Different but Similar – Part 2
As demonstrated in the last post, the grip of partisan politics seemed to take hold of the Obama administration near the completion of his first year. Obama’s monthly approval ratings crept down toward 50%, and by years end dropped below majority support. That trend continued, and in the subsequent months Obama established several records forContinue reading “Obama and Trump. Different but Similar – Part 2”
Obama and Trump. Different but Similar – Part 1
Barack Obama, a youthful 47-year-old former constitutional law professor and community organizer, campaigned on hope and change, and in 2008 became the first African American elected president. His speeches were persuasive, eloquent and at times inspiring. Obama charmed audiences, large and small, and his demeanor projected poise and stability. His inauguration, held in the depthsContinue reading “Obama and Trump. Different but Similar – Part 1”
consider the politics 