As the debt ceiling fight comes to an end with a Senate vote looming, there’s been a flurry of polls on the subject. New analysis of the surveys by The Washington Post reveals some common elements, regardless of the pollster or spin.
Why It Matters: The waters have been muddied by messaging from both Democrats and Republicans. Despite their competing narratives, the polls collectively show Americans believe their government is spending too much money.
By The Numbers:
Devil’s in the Details: These polls show Americans wanted the debt ceiling increased; however, NPR and Monmouth polls stated that a “slim majority” wanted the debt ceiling raised without spending cuts, while Monmouth reported a debt deal without stipulations was preferred 2:1. While their polling found these conclusions, they failed to provide all the options and so came out with much different conclusions than other pollsters who did include more options.
The Bottom Line: An AP poll earlier this year found 60% of Americans believe the federal government spends too much. While many of these respondents couldn’t cite specific programs or chose which major spending categories they’d cut, the point that they want a more fiscally responsible government is still important. Republicans should continue fighting for what the majority of Americans stand with them on and develop a serious approach to controlling federal spending long-term.
