What do Americans think about the country's energy problems? The job performance of President Bush? The Congressional debate on the patient's bill of rights? Politicians and government officials need answers to these questions in order to direct public policy. Polls and surveys are the chief mechanism for gauging public opinion.
Many polling organizations have been around for decades and are respected for their reliable results. Curious about what America thinks? Instead of waiting for poll results to be published in a newspaper, search for them at these sites.
Poll Data and Analysis
- PollingReport.com
The nonpartisan site collects poll data about current political issues from many respected resources. You can find President Bush's job ratings, opinions about Congressional debates and consumer confidence ratings. In addition to political polls, PollingReport.com offers data on the economy, sports and entertainment.
- National Election Studies Guide
The NES has tracked public opinion and electoral behavior since 1948. Learn about the social characteristics of the electorate, trust in government and voter turnout for more than 50 years of elections.
Polling Organizations
- Gallup
This venerable institution has been tracking American public opinion since 1935. Gallup polls about politics and social issues are widely quoted in many media outlets. The site offers not only poll numbers but analysis as well. Check the A-Z Poll Index to find recent surveys on many topics.
- Harris Poll
Since 1963, the Harris Poll has released a weekly survey of American public opinion. Find the latest poll here and search the archives for previous polls.
- Mason-Dixon
Conducting polls in every state, Mason-Dixon distributes their poll data to more than 350 media organizations. But you can read the latest poll news here.
- Pew Research Center
This independent group commissions polls on public opinion toward politics, the media and policy issues. The site posts polling reports since 1995.
- Zogby
Search for polls by topic to identify social and political trends.
News Polls
- Washington Post Poll Vault
Read news articles and analysis of Washington Post polls.
- ABC News Poll
This polling organization focuses on social issues and consumer concerns.
- CBS News Poll
Learn what Americans are thinking about the top issues of the day.
- Los Angeles Times
The California daily paper's poll gauges national and state opinions on popular issues. Included with the poll data is an analysis and links to related news stories.
For more poll results, see GovSpot's Polls and Opinions page.
--- J. Britten
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