Congressional Republicans Have Slight Edge In Approval Over Democrats; 'Tax Cuts' Leading Factor in Determining Vote

5/10/2002

From: Chris Wilson of Wilson Research Strategies, 703-744-7990

WASHINGTON, May 10 -- A new poll conducted by Wilson Research Strategies (WRS) (www.w-r-s.com) shows that by a thin margin, Republicans in Congress have a better approval rating than their Democrat counterparts.

The WRS poll of 1000 registered voters nationwide, asked, "When you think about the job Republicans/Democrats in Congress are doing right now, do you think they are doing an excellent job, good job, not so good job, or a poor job representing you and your interests?"

Overall, Republicans' performance is viewed as excellent or good by 53 percent of voters versus 41 percent as not so good or poor. Democrats' performance on the other hand is viewed as excellent or good by fewer than half of voters (49 percent) while 44 percent of registered voters view the Democrats' performance as not so good or poor.

"These are encouraging numbers for Republicans on Capitol Hill. However, they don't necessarily mean the GOP will sweep November elections. For Republicans, the key will be to keep these numbers strong by talking about things Americans care about most -- issues like tax relief, addressing terrorism, and education -- and for the Democrats, the challenge will be to put a dent in those numbers without appearing too negative," said Chris Wilson, president of WRS.

On a related issue, voters were asked, "From the following list, which issue is most important to you in deciding how you will vote in November for your district's Member of Congress?" (Responses were read and rotated. All response percentages are shown below.)

Cutting taxes and wasteful government spending, 21 percent Strengthening national defense and fighting Terrorism, 16 percent Improving public k-12 education, 13 percent Reducing unemployment and creating jobs, 11 percent Providing affordable health care, 8 percent Protecting the environment, 6 percent Protecting Social Security, 6 percent Fighting crime and drugs, 4 percent Reforming welfare, 2 percent Addressing growth and transportation problems, 1 percent Other/don't know, 9 percent

"While Senators Ted Kennedy and Tom Daschle want to roll back President Bush's modest tax cut, clearly the American people believe keeping more of their hard earned dollars is important to them and many Americans will base their votes on a candidate's position on taxes and government spending," Wilson said.

The nationwide survey of 1000 registered voters was conducted May 5-8. The margin of error for this survey is plus or minus 3.2 percent. For a complete set of cross-tabulations for this survey question, for further analysis, or to schedule an interview, contact Chris Wilson, president, Wilson Research Strategies (www.w-r-s.com) at 703-744-7990.