WUI (Writing under the influence)

Rasmussen Reports Weekly Update—November 12, 2004

Values Voters? : The emerging conventional wisdom in some parts of Washington society is that values voters somehow dominated Election 2004. However, the data shows that National Security Issues were number one. From the beginning, this election was dominated by the War with Iraq and divided over the President's handling of that situation.

Cultural Issues: While Iraq was the top issue, 55% of voters said that the same-sex marriage issue was somewhat or very important to them. Those who said the issue was very important overwhelmingly support a traditional definition of marriage. It is also worth noting that those who are pro-Choice on abortion are divided on the issue of same-sex marriage. Fifty-three percent (53%) of voters say that they the pray every day or nearly every day.

USA Fair and Decent: One values related issue that has not received much attention is perceptions of the United States as a nation. Sixty-two percent (62%) of voters say that American society is generally fair and decent. Republicans and unaffiliated voters share this view, but Democrats are divided and 41% of John Kerry's party say that American society is generally unfair and discriminatory.

Social Security: In his post-Election Press Conference, President Bush announced that Social Security Reform will be on the agenda. Our latest survey confirms what many others have shown, that support for Social Security reform is stronger among voters than among politicians.

Economic Confidence: The Rasmussen Investor Index reached its highest level in more than a month today. However, both the Investor Index and the Rasmussen Consumer Index remain below peaks established in early January.

President Bush: The President's Job Approval is at 54%, up a couple of points since Election Day.

posted by Polish Immigrant  # 1:11 AM