Interview Schedule June

HART/McINTURFF June 2009

Study #6095--page 1 NBC/Wall Street Journal Survey

1724 Connecticut Avenue, NW Washington, DC 20009 (202) 234-5570

Interviews: 1,008 adults, including 101 reached by cell phone Date: June 12-15, 2009

FINAL 48 Male 52 Female [109]

Study #6095 NBC News/Wall Street Journal Survey June 2009 Please note: all results are shown as percentages unless otherwise stated.

The margin of error for 1,008 interviews is ± 3.1% (ASK ONLY OF SAMPLE TYPE 2--CELL PHONE ONLY RESPONDENTS.) 1. Do you have a landline in addition to your cell phone, or is your cell phone the only telephone you have? Have a landline ................................. Cell phone is only telephone............. Not sure ..........................................

2a.

100 -

9 6 9 7 8 9 8 11 10 7 6 8 2

[146-147]

To ensure that we have a representative sample, would you please tell me whether you are from a Hispanic or Spanish-speaking background? Yes, Hispanic.................................... No, not Hispanic ............................... Not sure/refused .............................

2b.

[139]

For statistical purposes only, would you please tell me how old you are? (IF “REFUSED,” ASK:) Well, would you tell me which age group you belong to? 18-24 ................................................ 25-29 ................................................ 30-34 ................................................ 35-39 ................................................ 40-44 ................................................ 45-49 ................................................ 50-54 ................................................ 55-59 ................................................ 60-64 ................................................ 65-69 ................................................ 70-74 ................................................ 75 and over....................................... Not sure/refused .............................

2b.

TERMINATE CONTINUE TERMINATE

11 89 -

[148]

And again, for statistical purposes only, what is your race––white, black, Asian, or something else? White ................................................ Black................................................. Asian ................................................ Other ................................................ Hispanic (VOL) ............................... Not sure/refused .............................

75 11 2 4 7 1

[149]

HART/McINTURFF June 2009

3a.

Study #6095--page 2 NBC/Wall Street Journal Survey

All in all, do you think that things in the nation are generally headed in the right direction, or do you feel that things are off on the wrong track? High

Headed in the right direction ..... Off on the wrong track ............... Mixed (VOL) ............................ Not sure...................................

6/09 42 46 9 3

6/04+ 36 48 14 2

9/01 72 11 11 6

Low 10/1720/08+ 12 78 7 3

4/09 43 43 10 4

2/09 41 44 9 6

1/09 26 59 9 6

12/08 26 60 10 4

10/1720/08+ 12 78 7 3

10/45/08+ 12 77 9 2

9/1922/08+ 16 73 9 2

8/08+ 18 67 12 3

7/08+ 13 74 10 3

6/08+ 16 71 11 2

4/08+ 15 73 10 2

3/710/08+ 20 66 11 3

1/08+ 20 68 9 3

6/07 19 68 11 2

1/07 28 57 13 2

6/06 27 61 10 2

1/06 31 57 10 2

7/05 34 52 12 2

1/05 40 47 10 3

1/04 47 43 6 4

7/03 42 44 9 4

1/03 36 47 14 3

6/02 52 31 14 3

1/02 62 20 14 4

3/01 52 32 11 5

3/93 43 35 11 11

[150]

+ Results shown reflect responses among registered voters.

3b.

Do you feel confident or not confident that life for our children's generation will be better than it has been for us?

Feel confident.................................... Do not feel confident ......................... Not sure ..........................................

6/09* 31 57 12

9/1922/08+ 34 56 10

1/07 33 60 7

7/06 27 65 8

12/01 49 42 9

9/93 25 68 7

12/92 41 52 7

12/91+1 44 51 5

10/90+ 50 45 5

[151]

* Asked of one-half the respondents (FORM A). 1 In December 1991, question was phrased, “Do you feel very confident, fairly confident, or not at all confident that life for our children will be better than it has been for us?” + Results shown reflect responses among registered voters.

4a.

In general, do you approve or disapprove of the job that Barack Obama is doing as president?

Approve............................................. Disapprove ........................................ Not sure...........................................

6/09 56 34 10

4/09 61 30 9

2/09 60 26 14

[152]

HART/McINTURFF June 2009

4b.

Study #6095--page 3 NBC/Wall Street Journal Survey

Do you generally approve or disapprove of the job that Barack Obama is doing in handling the economy?

Approve ............................................ Disapprove ....................................... Not sure..........................................

6/09* 51 38 11

4/09 55 37 8

2/09 56 31 13

[153]

* Asked of one-half the respondents (FORM A).

4c.

Do you generally approve or disapprove of the job that Barack Obama is doing in handling foreign policy?

Approve............................................. Disapprove ........................................ Not sure ..........................................

6/09** 54 36 10

4/09 56 31 13

[154]

** Asked of one-half the respondents (FORM B).

4d.

In general, do you approve or disapprove of the job that Congress is doing? High

Approve ........................ Disapprove ................... Not sure ......................

6/09 29 57 14

10/45/08+ 13 78 9

9/98 61 28 11

Low 10/1720/08+ 12 79 9

4/09 28 58 14

2/09 31 54 15

1/09 23 68 9

12/08 21 69 10

10/1720/08+ 12 79 9

9/1922/08+ 15 73 12

7/08+ 15 75 10

6/08+ 13 79 8

1/08 18 70 12

6/07 23 64 13

3/07 31 53 16

6/06 23 64 13

1/06 29 56 15

7/05 28 55 17

1/05 41 40 19

6/04+ 40 42 18

1/04 46 41 13

5/03+ 43 43 14

1/03 42 39 19

6/02 43 41 16

1/02 54 29 17

6/01 47 34 19

1/01 48 35 17

6/00+ 43 46 11

1/00 48 36 16

+ Results shown reflect responses among registered voters.

[155]

HART/McINTURFF June 2009

5.

Study #6095--page 4 NBC/Wall Street Journal Survey

Now I'm going to read you the names of several public figures, and I'd like you to rate your feelings toward each one as either very positive, somewhat positive, neutral, somewhat negative, or very negative. If you don't know the name, please just say so.

Very Positive Barack Obama June 2009 ................................. April 2009 .................................. February 2009........................... January 2009 ............................ December 2008......................... October 17-20, 2008+ ............... October 4-5, 2008+ ................... September 19-22, 2008+ .......... September 6-8, 2008+ .............. August 2008+ ............................ July 2008+................................. June 2008+ ............................... April 2008+ ................................ March 24-25, 2008+ .................. March 7-10, 2008+ .................... January 2008 ............................ December 2007......................... November 2007......................... September 2007........................ July 2007................................... April 2007 .................................. March 2007 ............................... High February 2009........................... Low Oct. 28-30, 2006+ ..................... General Motors June 2009 ................................. December 2008......................... Sonia Sotomayor June 2009 .................................

Somewhat Positive

Neutral

Somewhat Negative

Very Negative

Don't Know Name/ Not Sure [156]

41 45 47 43 45 37 30 29 33 28 27 25 23 24 25 19 17 15 15 16 19 18

19 19 21 23 22 19 22 19 20 22 21 23 23 25 26 30 29 28 27 26 26 19

11 12 12 17 15 10 12 15 13 13 16 17 16 18 18 22 22 24 23 24 25 26

12 10 9 8 8 10 12 14 12 17 11 11 17 16 13 11 14 12 13 12 8 11

17 13 10 6 8 23 23 22 20 19 23 22 20 16 15 14 12 12 12 10 6 6

1 1 3 2 1 1 1 2 1 2 2 1 1 3 4 6 9 10 12 16 20

47

21

12

9

10

1

14

17

18

5

6

40

6 6

12 19

30 23

24 26

23 23

5 3

13

17

24

8

8

30

[157/162]

[158/163]

+ Results shown reflect responses among registered voters.

HART/McINTURFF June 2009

Study #6095--page 5 NBC/Wall Street Journal Survey

Q.5 (cont'd)

The Democratic Party June 2009 * ............................... April 2009 .................................. February 2009........................... December 2008......................... October 17-20, 2008+ ............... October 4-5, 2008+ ................... September 19-22, 2008+ .......... September 6-8, 2008+ .............. August 2008+............................ July 2008+................................. June 2008+ ............................... April 2008+................................ March 7-10, 2008+ .................... January 2008 ............................ November 2007......................... September 2007........................ July 2007................................... June 2007 ................................. January 2007 ............................ October 28-30, 2006+ ............... July 2006................................... January 2006 ............................ September 2005........................ May 2005 .................................. February 2005........................... October 2004+ .......................... September 2004+ ..................... High January 2000 ............................ Low July 2006...................................

Neutral

Somewhat Negative

Very Negative

Don't Know Name/ Not Sure

26 28 29 32 23 26 23 25 26 28 27 27 25 25 27 26 27 30 29 25 25 25 26 26 28 25 26

16 19 18 22 22 20 20 17 21 18 24 22 18 19 24 27 21 22 26 25 27 28 29 26 28 22 20

16 15 14 15 17 18 16 19 16 18 13 15 16 18 18 22 20 19 16 18 22 20 18 20 16 16 18

21 19 17 13 21 19 20 14 19 19 19 17 19 15 17 16 15 16 14 17 17 15 14 14 13 19 19

2 2 2 1 1 2 2 1 1 2 1 2 2 1 2 1 2 1 2 1 2 1 2 2 1 1 1

20

30

23

15

10

2

7

25

27

22

17

2

Very Positive

Somewhat Positive

19 17 20 17 16 15 19 24 17 15 16 17 20 22 12 8 15 12 13 14 7 11 11 12 14 17 16

[159]

* Asked of one-half the respondents (FORM A). + Results shown reflect responses among registered voters.

HART/McINTURFF June 2009

Study #6095--page 6 NBC/Wall Street Journal Survey

Q.5 (cont’d)

Dick Cheney June 2009 * ............................... April 2009 .................................. December 2008......................... August 2008+ ............................ June 2008+ ............................... January 2008 ............................ July 2007................................... January 2007 ............................ September 2006+...................... March 2006 ............................... December 2005......................... November 2005......................... January 2005 ............................ December 2004......................... October 2004+ .......................... September 2004+...................... August 2004+ ............................ July 2004+................................. June 2004+ ............................... May 2004+ ................................ March 2004 ............................... December 13, 2003................... September 2002........................ December 2001......................... October 2000+ .......................... High February 1991+......................... Low April 2009 .................................. Ban Ki-moon June 2009 * ...............................

Neutral

Somewhat Negative

Very Negative

Don't Know Name/ Not Sure

16 10 14 18 17 17 15 20 21 18 20 17 23 24 20 20 20 20 22 21 22 24 27 27 24

22 23 18 17 18 17 19 21 15 17 15 19 15 13 12 13 16 19 17 16 18 14 21 23 26

18 15 18 15 14 15 15 15 15 17 17 16 18 13 11 12 12 14 13 13 14 13 12 3 8

30 39 40 40 44 39 39 31 35 33 32 33 23 28 31 31 30 28 27 29 22 23 12 6 9

4 5 3 3 1 5 3 4 1 3 3 5 2 4 2 3 4 3 4 3 6 8 5 5 8

33

33

13

2

2

17

8

10

23

15

39

5

1

3

7

3

5

81

Very Positive

Somewhat Positive

10 8 7 7 6 7 9 9 13 12 13 10 19 18 24 21 18 16 17 18 17 18 23 36 25

[160]

[161]

* Asked of one-half the respondents (FORM A). + Results shown reflect responses among registered voters.

HART/McINTURFF June 2009

Study #6095--page 7 NBC/Wall Street Journal Survey

Q.5 (cont'd)

The Republican Party June 2009 **.............................. April 2009 .................................. February 2009........................... December 2008......................... October 17-20, 2008+ ............... October 4-5, 2008+ ................... September 19-22, 2008+ .......... September 6-8, 2008+ .............. August 2008+ ............................ July 2008+................................. June 2008+ ............................... April 2008+................................ March 7-10, 2008+ .................... January 2008 ............................ November 2007......................... September 2007........................ July 2007................................... June 2007 ................................. January 2007 ............................ Oct 28-30, 2006+ ...................... July 2006................................... January 2006 ............................ September 2005........................ May 2005 .................................. February 2005........................... October 2004+ .......................... September 2004+...................... High December 2001......................... Low February 2009........................... Rush Limbaugh June 2009 **..............................

Neutral

Somewhat Negative

Very Negative

Don't Know Name/ Not Sure

19 22 19 20 21 23 21 22 25 23 21 19 24 21 24 23 25 21 23 20 22 24 23 27 27 24 22

29 25 24 20 18 17 18 15 22 20 24 23 15 26 24 20 19 21 21 16 18 20 20 17 19 18 16

23 22 25 26 23 21 19 18 19 22 22 22 21 19 20 27 23 23 23 20 21 20 19 19 18 15 18

21 22 22 26 25 26 28 25 23 26 25 26 28 18 22 20 23 26 21 28 25 22 22 22 18 22 22

2 2 3 1 2 1 1 2 1 1 1 2 2 3 2 2 2 2 2 1 3 1 2 2 1 1 1

21

36

18

13

9

3

7

19

24

25

22

3

Very Positive

Somewhat Positive

6 7 7 7 11 12 13 18 10 8 7 8 10 13 8 8 8 7 10 15 11 13 14 13 17 20 21

[164]

[165]

June 1995 .................................

8 10

15 14

17 14

13 14

37 34

10 14

October 1993 ............................

13

13

16

9

25

24

** Asked of one-half the respondents (FORM B). + Results shown reflect responses among registered voters.

HART/McINTURFF June 2009

Study #6095--page 8 NBC/Wall Street Journal Survey

Q.5 (cont'd)

Neutral

Somewhat Negative

Very Negative

Don't Know Name/ Not Sure

19 19 17 16 17 18 18 16 10 11 10 10

17 15 19 21 21 20 23 21 18 12 20 17

12 9 10 14 11 12 9 8 8 7 6 6

34 28 26 27 22 18 15 15 17 16 12 10

13 17 19 15 24 21 25 31 43 50 49 52

8

16

4

8

61

Very Positive

Somewhat Positive

February 2005...........................

5 12 9 7 5 11 10 9 4 4 3 5

December 2002.........................

3

Nancy Pelosi June 2009 **.............................. February 2009........................... January 2009 ............................ October 4-5, 2008+ ................... January 2008 ............................ April 2007 ................................. January 2007 ............................ December 2006......................... October 2006+ .......................... September 2006+ ..................... December 2005.........................

[166]

** Asked of one-half the respondents (FORM B). + Results shown reflect responses among registered voters.

6.

As you may know, Federal Reserve Board Chairman Ben Bernanke’s term of office ends next year. Do you think that President Obama should or should not reappoint Ben Bernanke as Federal Reserve Board Chairman? * Yes, should reappoint Bernanke.......... No, should not reappoint Bernanke ..... Not sure .............................................

[167]

33 39 28

* Asked of one-half the respondents (FORM A).

October 1999 Yes, should reappoint Greenspan .......... No, should not reappoint Greenspan...... Not sure................................................

61 16 23

HART/McINTURFF June 2009

7a.

Study #6095--page 9 NBC/Wall Street Journal Survey

Let me list some issues that have been proposed for the federal government to address. Please tell me which one of these items you think should be the top priority for the federal government. (IF MORE THAN ONE, ASK:) Well, if you had to choose just one, which do you think should be the top priority?

(ASK ONLY OF RESPONDENTS WHO CHOOSE A PRIORITY IN Q.7a.) 7b. And which of these issues do you think should be the next highest priority for the federal government to address? THIS TABLE HAS BEEN RANKED BY THE HIGHEST PERCENTAGE

Job creation and economic growth...................................... The deficit and government spending ................................. Health care.......................................................................... National security and terrorism ........................................... The wars in Iraq and Afghanistan ....................................... Energy and the cost of gas ................................................. Social issues such as abortion and same-sex marriage ..... Other (VOL) ...................................................................... All equally (VOL) ............................................................... None of these (VOL) ......................................................... Not sure ............................................................................

8.

6/09 36 27 13 22 2

CONTINUE

Skip to Q.8

[168-171]

2/09 43 26 13 16 2

1/09 50 26 12 8 4

12/08 47 27 12 9 5

[172]

Which ONE of the following statements best describes your feelings toward Barack Obama? (IF MORE THAN ONE, SAY:) Well, if you had to choose just one statement, which would you choose?

Like personally and approve most policies.............. Like personally but disapprove of many policies ..... Don’t like personally, approve most of policies........ Don’t like personally, disapprove many policies ...... None of these (VOL) ............................................. Not sure.................................................................

10.

Q.7a/b COMBINED Top/Second Priorities 54 34 34 27 26 16 7 1 -

When it comes to the presidency of Barack Obama, do you strongly relate to him as your president, somewhat relate to him as your president, relate to him only a little as your president, or not really relate to him as your president?

Strongly relate to him ........................ Somewhat relate to him .................... Relate to him only a little ................... Do not really relate to him ................. Not sure ..........................................

9.

Q.7a Top Priority 31 19 16 14 9 5 2 3 1

6/09 48 27 3 16 3 3

4/09 51 30 3 12 2 2

1/09 55 22 5 10 3 5

[173]

In general, do you feel that President Obama is taking on too many issues and is not focused enough on the most important ones, or do you feel that President Obama is focused and is taking on this many issues because our country is facing so many problems? Focused on too many issues ..................................................................... Focused on these issues because country is facing so many problems .... Not sure ...................................................................................................

37 60 3

[174]

HART/McINTURFF June 2009 11.

Study #6095--page 10 NBC/Wall Street Journal Survey

Would you describe Barack Obama as liberal, moderate, or conservative? (IF "LIBERAL" OR "CONSERVATIVE," ASK:) And would you say Barack Obama is very (liberal/conservative) or somewhat (liberal/conservative)?

Very liberal........................................ Somewhat liberal .............................. Moderate .......................................... Somewhat conservative.................... Very conservative ............................. Not sure ..........................................

6/09** 37 20 33 2 2 6

4/09 36 23 30 4 3 4

1/09 27 22 37 3 4 7

7/08+ 33 23 29 5 3 7

6/08+ 35 23 24 6 3 9

3/08 30 25 24 5 3 13

[175]

** Asked of one-half the respondents (FORM B). + Results shown reflect responses among registered voters.

12.

And how confident are you that Barack Obama has the right set of goals and policies to improve the economy––extremely confident, quite confident, only somewhat confident, or not at all confident? Extremely confident .......................... Quite confident ................................. Only somewhat confident ................. Not at all confident............................ Not sure ..........................................

13.

20 26 24 29 1

[176]

Let me read you a few decisions President Obama has made recently, and for each one please tell me whether you favor or oppose this action. THIS TABLE HAS BEEN RANKED BY THE PERCENTAGE WHO SAY FAVOR

Elimination of procedures such as waterboarding to get information from terrorists........................................................................................... Ordering closure of the Guantanamo Bay prison for terror suspects ....... Providing financial aid to General Motors in exchange for the majority of the stock and having a say in management .............................................

14.

Favor

Oppose

Not Sure

48 39

41 52

11 9

[178] [177]

35

56

9

[179]

Recently there has been some discussion about areas in which the federal government has taken a greater role, such as taking an ownership stake in General Motors, limiting levels of compensation that corporate executives can receive, and the role the government would play in a new health care system. How much does this concern you––a great deal, quite a bit, just some, or very little? Concerns a great deal ...................... Concerns quite a bit.......................... Concerns just some.......................... Concerns very little ........................... Not sure ..........................................

49 20 17 13 1

[180]

HART/McINTURFF June 2009

Study #6095--page 11 NBC/Wall Street Journal Survey

Turning to another topic. . . 15.

As you may know, Barack Obama recently nominated Sonia Sotomayor to serve as a justice on the Supreme Court. Do you strongly support, somewhat support, somewhat oppose, or strongly oppose Sonia Sotomayor's serving as a justice on the Supreme Court, or do you not know enough about her to say?

Strongly support.................................. Somewhat support .............................. Somewhat oppose .............................. Strongly oppose .................................. Do not know enough to say ................ Not sure ............................................

16.

6/09 21 22 9 11 35 2

Sam Alito 11/05 16 16 10 10 47 1

John Roberts (as Chief Justice) 9/05 22 16 10 10 41 1

[208]

Based on what you have heard so far, do you think that Sonia Sotomayor is qualified or not qualified to be a Supreme Court justice, or do you not know enough about her to say?

Qualified............................................ Not qualified...................................... Do not know enough to say .............. Not sure ..........................................

17.

Harriet Miers 10/05 11 16 10 11 51 1

6/09 50 13 35 2

Sam Alito 11/05 51 6 41 2

Harriet Miers 10/05 29 24 46 1

[209]

How much confidence do you have that, if she is confirmed by the Senate to sit on the Supreme Court, Sonia Sotomayor will reflect your views about most issues--a great deal of confidence, quite a bit of confidence, some confidence, very little confidence, or no confidence at all? If you have no opinion, please just say so. *

A great deal of confidence ................ Quite a bit of confidence ................... Some confidence .............................. Very little confidence ......................... No confidence at all........................... No opinion ......................................... Not sure ..........................................

6/09 12 14 20 14 13 25 2

Sam Alito 11/05 8 10 24 16 11 29 2

John Roberts 9/05 13 12 19 13 9 32 2

[210]

* Asked of one-half the respondents (FORM A).

18.

Based on what you have heard, seen, or read about Sonia Sotomayor's decisions as a judge and her personal viewpoints do you feel that she would be within the mainstream of the Supreme Court and past justices who have served or outside the mainstream of the Supreme Court and past justices who have served? If you do not know enough to have an opinion, just say so. ** Within the mainstream ...................... Outside the mainstream ................... No opinion ........................................ Not sure ..........................................

28 33 35 4

** Asked of one-half the respondents (FORM B).

[211]

HART/McINTURFF June 2009

Study #6095--page 12 NBC/Wall Street Journal Survey

Now turning to the economy. . . 19.

How satisfied are you with the state of the U.S. economy today––are you very satisfied, somewhat satisfied, somewhat dissatisfied, or very dissatisfied with the state of the economy?

Very satisfied.......................... Somewhat satisfied ................ Somewhat dissatisfied ........... Very dissatisfied ..................... Not sure ...............................

6/09 1 11 33 54 1

4/09 2 16 30 52 -

2/09 1 6 22 70 1

1/09 2 8 25 65 -

4/08+ 2 12 28 58 -

12/07 5 27 28 40 -

High 9/98 31 55 10 3 1

Low 2/09 1 6 22 70 1

9/06+ 10 33 32 25 -

1/04 6 45 30 18 1

12/02 3 33 38 25 1

10/02+ 4 27 37 31 1

9/02 2 32 41 24 1

7/02 4 42 39 14 1

4/02 6 44 33 15 2

1/02 4 43 39 13 1

12/01 5 47 32 15 1

1/01 18 57 18 6 1

4/00+ 29 52 12 6 1

10/99 23 53 17 7 -

12/98 26 54 13 6 1

10/98+ 27 55 12 5 1

9/98 31 55 10 3 1

12/97 18 52 20 8 2

9/97 13 52 23 10 2

6/97 10 51 27 10 2

3/97 13 45 27 13 2

12/96 9 51 27 11 2

9/96 7 49 30 12 2

6/96 5 43 32 18 2

5/96+ 4 43 38 14 1

3/96 3 39 37 19 2

1/96 3 37 38 19 3

7/95 4 39 35 21 1

4/95 4 40 37 18 1

12/94 4 41 38 15 2

+ Results shown reflect responses among registered voters.

[212]

HART/McINTURFF June 2009

20.

Study #6095--page 13 NBC/Wall Street Journal Survey

How satisfied are you with your own financial situation today––are you very satisfied, somewhat satisfied, somewhat dissatisfied, or very dissatisfied with your financial situation?

Very satisfied ................................... Somewhat satisfied.......................... Somewhat dissatisfied ..................... Very dissatisfied............................... Not sure .........................................

6/09 17 38 22 22 1

4/09 14 44 22 19 1

2/09 15 35 23 26 1

1/09 15 41 22 22 -

4/08+ 17 42 20 21 -

High 9/98 26 52 14 7 1

Low 2/09 15 35 23 26 1

12/07 21 46 17 16 -

1/04 19 50 18 13 1

12/02 17 44 21 17 1

10/02+ 18 40 23 19 -

7/02 16 47 24 13 -

1/02 19 50 19 12 -

1/01 21 50 17 11 1

4/00+ 25 51 13 10 1

10/99 21 53 14 11 1

9/99 22 50 18 10 -

12/98 25 51 13 10 1

9/98 26 52 14 7 1

12/97 20 51 16 12 1

9/97 19 49 17 14 1

6/97 16 50 20 13 1

3/97 17 48 20 14 1

12/96 16 50 21 12 1

12/94 13 48 24 14 1

+ Results shown reflect responses among registered voters.

[213]

HART/McINTURFF June 2009

21.

During the next twelve months, do you think that the nation's economy will get better, get worse, or stay about the same?

Economy will get better.......... Economy will get worse ......... Economy will stay about the same................................ Not sure ...............................

1

Study #6095--page 14 NBC/Wall Street Journal Survey

6/09 46 22

4/09 38 30

12/08 36 28

10/1720/08+ 38 20

7/08+ 25 43

6/08+ 21 49

4/08+ 19 45

3/07 16 31

29 3

30 2

34 2

37 5

28 4

27 3

29 7

49 4

1/07 21 16 60 3

9/3010/2/06+ 22 22 51 5

6/06 16 39 43 2

4/06 17 44 36 3

3/06 24 27 46 3

1/06 24 30 42 4

12/05 26 34 37 3

5/05 28 30 36 6

1/05 43 17 36 4

10/04+ 43 10 33 14

3/06 24 27 46 3

9/04+ 43 13 33 11

5/04+ 42 16 34 8

3/04+ 44 18 35 3

1/04 50 10 37 3

11/03 49 15 33 3

9/03 44 19 33 4

7/03 45 16 34 4

5/03+ 49 17 31 3

1/03 35 25 37 3

12/02 40 20 35 5

10/02+ 41 20 34 5

9/02 39 18 39 4

7/02 41 20 37 2

4/02 50 13 32 5

12/01 50 15 32 3

4/011 36 25 34 5

3/01 28 29 37 6

10/98+ 17 24 54 5

9/98 19 22 53 6

4/97 19 22 57 2

1/96 21 21 52 6

7/95 20 21 54 5

4/95 24 23 50 3

12/94 31 17 46 6

10/94 31 24 40 5

9/94 28 24 44 4

6/94 28 17 52 3

5/94 27 21 49 3

3/94 29 16 52 3

1/94 44 16 36 4

10/93 21 27 50 2

9/93 23 24 51 2

7/93 20 29 48 3

6/93 23 27 47 3

4/93 33 21 44 2

3/93 39 15 43 3

Prior to April 2001, the question was phrased, “Over the past year…” + Results shown reflect responses among registered voters.

[214]

HART/McINTURFF June 2009

22.

Study #6095--page 15 NBC/Wall Street Journal Survey

Which one of the following do you think best applies to the economic recession the country is in? (IF MORE THAN ONE, SAY:) Well, if you had to choose just one, which would you choose?

It is almost over.............................................................. It will be over within the next six months ........................ It will be over between six months and one year ........... It will be over between one to two years1 ....................... It will be over between two to three years ...................... It will go on for more than three years............................ Not sure .......................................................................

6/09** 1 6 20 32 18 20 3

2/09 2 11 36 25 24 2

1/09 1 3 20

[215]

}57 17 2

** Asked of one-half the respondents (FORM B). 1 In January 2009, the item was phrased, “It will be over between one to three years.”

23.

I'd like to list some economic issues. As of right now, which one do you feel is the most important economic issue facing the country? (IF MORE THAN ONE, ASK:) Well, if you had to choose just one, which would it be? THIS TABLE HAS BEEN RANKED BY THE HIGHEST PERCENTAGE

Unemployment .................................. The federal budget deficit2 .............. The cost of health care...................... Gas prices and energy costs1 ........... The drop in the stock market .......... Federal taxes..................................... Housing prices................................... Pension security ................................ All equally important (VOL) ............. None (VOL) ..................................... Not sure ...........................................

Gas prices1 ........................................ The federal budget deficit2 ................. Unemployment .................................. Federal taxes..................................... Pension security ................................ All equally important (VOL) ............. None (VOL) ..................................... Not sure ...........................................

6/09** 35 24 11 7 6 4 3 2 8 -

1/09 33 15 12 6 7 4 8 4 10 1

12/08 36 12 11 5 9 3 8 4 11 1

9/06+ 7 15 NA 26 NA 6 4 5 11 1 1

7/06

7/03

7/02

4/01

NA 14 41 7 NA 15 2

6 11 25 8 NA 11 1 1

38 9 13 11 NA 7 1

5 11 NA 40 NA 5 NA 6 9 1

9/05 16 18 NA 30 NA 6 NA 7 8 1

5/05 24 20 NA 17 NA 7 NA NA 11 1 1

1/05 23 19 NA NA NA 6 NA NA 10 1

1/03 41 16 NA NA NA 9 NA NA 13 2

9/03 48 13 NA NA NA 6 NA NA 14 2

3/01

1/01

6/94

5/94

3/94

8 11 35 NA 9 10 1 1

26 18 10 11 NA 12 2

NA 30 35 11 NA 4 1

NA 24 35 12 NA 6 2

NA 33 33 10 NA 5 2

1/94 NA 31 37 8 NA 5 1 2

12/93 NA 25 40 11 NA 7 2

[216-217]

** Asked of one-half the respondents (FORM B). 1 Between July 2002 and January 2001, the item was phrased, “Energy prices.” In September 2005, item was phrased "gas prices " 2 Between January 2005 and March 2001, the item was phrased, “The federal budget.” Prior to March 2001, the item was phrased, “Keeping the federal budget balanced.” + Results shown reflect responses among registered voters.

HART/McINTURFF June 2009

Study #6095--page 16 NBC/Wall Street Journal Survey

Q.23 (cont’d)

Gas prices1 ........................................ The federal budget deficit2 ................. Unemployment .................................. Federal taxes..................................... Pension security ................................ All equally important (VOL) ............. None (VOL) ..................................... Not sure ...........................................

10/93 NA 26 43 12 NA 4 1

9/93 NA 26 40 11 NA 4 1 1

7/93 NA 31 37 10 NA 4 1

6/93 NA 28 40 11 NA 4 1

4/93 NA 28 44 9 NA 5 1

3/93 NA 28 44 7 NA 3 1

1/93 NA 28 44 5 NA 5 1

12/92 NA 24 46 5 NA 5 2

5/92 NA 22 46 5 NA 8 3

** Asked of one-half the respondents (FORM B). 1 Between July 2002 and January 2001, the item was phrased, “Energy prices.” In September 2005, item was phrased "gas prices " 2 Between January 2005 and March 2001, the item was phrased, “The federal budget.” Prior to March 2001, the item was phrased, “Keeping the federal budget balanced.” + Results shown reflect responses among registered voters.

24.

Which of the following two statements comes closer to your point of view? Statement A: The President and the Congress should worry more about boosting the economy even though it may mean larger budget deficits now and in the future. Statement B: The President and the Congress should worry more about keeping the budget deficit down, even though it may mean it will take longer for the economy to recover. Statement A/Worry more about boosting the economy .............. Statement B/Worry more about keeping budget deficit down ..... Depends (VOL) .......................................................................... Not sure .....................................................................................

25a.

35 58 2 5

[218]

When you think about the current economic conditions, do you feel that this is a situation that Barack Obama has inherited or is this a situation his policies are mostly responsible for?

Situation Obama inherited ........................................... Situation Obama's policies mostly responsible for ....... Some of both (VOL) ................................................... Not sure .....................................................................

6/09* 72 14 10 4

2/09 84 8 6 2

[219]

* Asked of one-half the respondents (FORM A).

25b.

Do you think that the recently passed economic stimulus legislation is a good idea or a bad idea? If you do not have an opinion either way, please just say so.

Good idea ......................................... Bad idea............................................ Do not have an opinion ..................... Not sure .......................................... 1

6/09 37 39 20 4

4/09 38 39 18 5

2/09 44 36 15 5

1/091 43 27 24 6

[220]

In January 2009, the question was phrased, “ . . . recently proposed economic stimulus legislation . . . .”

HART/McINTURFF June 2009

26.

Study #6095--page 17 NBC/Wall Street Journal Survey

Which ONE of the following groups do you feel is most responsible for the federal budget deficit? (IF "ALL" OR MULTIPLE RESPONSES GIVEN, ASK:) Well, if you had to choose just ONE, who would you say is MOST responsible? ** THIS TABLE HAS BEEN RANKED BY THE HIGHEST PERCENTAGE

The Bush administration ................... The Democrats in Congress.............. The Republicans in Congress ........... The Obama administration ................ All (VOL) ......................................... Not sure ..........................................

[221]

46 21 7 6 13 7

** Asked of one-half the respondents (FORM B).

Moving along. . . 27.

For each of the following countries, how would you rate the quality of the cars they produce--very good, good, average, poor, or awful? * THIS TABLE HAS BEEN RANKED BY THE PERCENTAGE WHO SAY VERY GOOD OR GOOD

Japan............................................... Germany.......................................... United States ................................... South Korea.....................................

Very Good 43 41 21 4

Good 36 32 40 18

Average 8 9 26 22

Poor 2 2 9 11

Awful 2 1 2 5

Not Sure 9 15 2 40

[225] [222] [223] [224]

* Asked of one-half the respondents (FORM A).

28a.

Are you now considering, or have you considered in the past few years, buying an American car from GM, Ford, or Chrysler? Yes, have considered ....................... No, have not considered ................... Not sure ..........................................

54 45 1

CONTINUE Skip to Q.29a

[226]

(ASK ONLY OF RESPONDENTS WHO SAY "YES, HAVE CONSIDERED" IN Q.28a.) 28b. In thinking of the next car you may buy, do the recent problems the American auto industry has been facing make you more likely to buy an American car, less likely to buy an American car, or does this make no difference to you either way? More likely to buy American ............. Less likely to buy American .............. Makes no difference either way ........ Not sure ..........................................

40 14 45 1

[227]

HART/McINTURFF June 2009 29a.

Study #6095--page 18 NBC/Wall Street Journal Survey

Do you approve or disapprove of the federal government providing loans and financial assistance to Chrysler and GM? Approve ............................................ Disapprove ....................................... Not sure ..........................................

29b.

[228]

39 53 8

As you may know, GM has recently gone into bankruptcy. When it emerges from bankruptcy, the federal government will temporarily own sixty percent of the company. Which of the following statements comes closer to your point of view about this? Statement A: This is the right approach, because without government involvement GM would have shut down operations, costing more jobs and making the recession worse. Statement B: This is the wrong approach, because it sets a bad example of the government getting too involved in the management of private companies, which goes against free market principles. ** Statement A/Right approach ........... Statement B/Wrong approach ......... Not sure ..........................................

[229]

40 55 5

** Asked of one-half the respondents (FORM B).

Turning to the issue of health care. . . 30.

From what you have heard about Barack Obama's health care plan, do you think his plan is a good idea or a bad idea? If you do not have an opinion either way, please just say so.

Good idea ......................................... Bad idea ........................................... Do not have an opinion..................... Not sure ..........................................

31a.

6/09 33 32 30 5

4/09 33 26 34 7

[230]

Which one of the following do you think the president and Congress should be most focused on addressing– –the cost of health care, or people who are not covered by insurance? *

The cost of health care ................................... People who are not covered by insurance ...... Both equally (VOL)........................................ Not sure .......................................................

6/09 41 43 11 5

4/09 39 42 16 3

[231]

* Asked of one-half the respondents (FORM A).

31b.

Which one of the following do you think the president's health care plan is most focused on addressing –– the cost of health care, or people who are not covered by insurance? **

The cost of health care .................................... People who are not covered by insurance....... Both equally (VOL) ........................................ Not sure......................................................... ** Asked of one-half the respondents (FORM B).

6/09 18 64 8 10

4/09 12 69 12 7

[232]

HART/McINTURFF June 2009 31c.

Study #6095--page 19 NBC/Wall Street Journal Survey

Do you have a health plan, that is, are you covered by a private health insurance plan or by a government program such as Medicare, Medicaid, or Tricare? (IF MORE THAN ONE, ASK:) Well what kind of plan would you say your primary plan is? YES, private health insurance .......... YES, MediCARE............................... YES, MediCAID ................................ YES, Tricare ..................................... YES, Other ....................................... NO, do not have a health plan .......... Other................................................. Don't know/refused .........................

32.

59 18 2 2 6 12 1

[233-234]

Now I am going to tell you more about the health care plan that President Obama supports and please tell me whether you would favor or oppose it. The plan requires that health insurance companies cover people with pre-existing medical conditions. It also requires all but the smallest employers to provide health coverage for their employees, or pay a percentage of their payroll to help fund coverage for the uninsured. Families and individuals with lower- and middleincomes would receive tax credits to help them afford insurance coverage. Some of the funding for this plan would come from raising taxes on wealthier Americans. Do you favor or oppose this plan?

Favor................................................. Oppose ............................................. Depends (VOL) ............................... Not sure ..........................................

6/09 55 35 3 7

4/09 1 56 33 6 5

[241]

1

In April 2009, this question was worded, “…the health care plan President Obama proposed…”

33.

Experts currently estimate that this proposed health care plan will cost one trillion dollars over the next decade. I am going to read you some proposals for how the plan could be funded. After I read each statement, please tell me whether that proposal is acceptable or not acceptable. THIS TABLE HAS BEEN RANKED BY THE PERCENTAGE WHO SAY ACCEPTABLE

Require everyone to have health insurance coverage. Those people who can afford it would buy their own health insurance, while people with low and moderate incomes would receive government assistance ... Raise taxes for people with incomes over two hundred fifty thousand dollars a year ............................................................................................ Require all but the smallest businesses to either offer health care coverage or pay a percentage of their payroll to the government ............. Reduce payments to doctors and hospitals for the services they provide to patients covered by Medicare and Medicaid, which are the government health programs for the elderly and low income.................... Require people with expensive health plans with more generous benefits than a standard plan to pay taxes on a portion of that plan's costs........... Require all people to pay taxes on the cost of their private health insurance plans ..............................................................................

Acceptable

Not Acceptable

Not Sure

62

31

7

[247]

62

33

5

[242]

55

37

8

[244]

47

46

7

[243]

33

59

8

[245]

23

70

7

[246]

HART/McINTURFF June 2009 34a.

Study #6095--page 20 NBC/Wall Street Journal Survey

In any health care proposal, how important do you feel it is to give people a choice of both a public plan administered by the federal government and a private plan for their health insurance––extremely important, quite important, not that important, or not at all important? Extremely important.......................... Quite important ................................. Not that important ............................. Not at all important ........................... Not sure ..........................................

41 35 12 8 4

[248]

(ASK ONLY OF RESPONDENTS WHO SAY THEY HAVE A PRIVATE HEALTH INSURANCE PLAN IN Q.31c.) 34b. And if a public plan administered by the federal government is created and available to all Americans, how likely do you think it is your employer would drop your current health coverage and you would be covered instead by the public plan--very likely, somewhat likely, not too likely, or not at all likely? If you don't know enough about this please just say so. Very likely ......................................... Somewhat likely................................ Not too likely ..................................... Not at all likely .................................. Don't know enough ........................... Not sure ..........................................

34c.

28 19 15 18 13 7

[249]

Please tell me which ONE statement you agree with more on the issue of creating a new public health plan administered by the federal government. (Some/Other) people say it would help lower health care costs because it would compete with private health plans. This new public plan would provide coverage for the uninsured and all Americans would have an option for quality affordable health care. (Some/Other) people say that patients might not always have access to their choice of doctors and the government would lower costs by limiting medical treatment options and decisions that should be made instead by patients and doctors. Lower costs and provide health care for all Americans .......... Limit access to doctors and medical treatment options.......... Not sure ...............................................................................

47 42 11

[250]

Thinking for a moment about foreign affairs. . . 35.

In general, do you think of Russia as more of an ally or more of an adversary?

More as an ally.................................... More as an adversary.......................... Both/neither (VOL) ............................ Not sure.............................................

6/09* 29 49 7 15

8/08+ 19 62 8 11

* Asked of one-half the respondents (FORM A). + Results shown reflect responses among registered voters.

4/02 52 26 11 11

5/96 48 28 10 14

3/95 56 35 5 4

[251]

HART/McINTURFF June 2009 36.

Study #6095--page 21 NBC/Wall Street Journal Survey

Is your overall opinion of Muslims very favorable, mostly favorable, mostly unfavorable, or very unfavorable?

Very favorable................................... Mostly favorable................................ Mostly unfavorable ............................ Very unfavorable ............................... Never heard of (VOL)...................... Not sure ..........................................

2/021 7 40 18 11 1 23

6/09 11 41 20 10 18

[252]

1

February 2002 trend data taken from a survey by the Pew Forum on Religion and Public Life.

37.

Do you think President Obama's recent trip to the Middle East helped or hurt the relationship between the United States and Muslim countries, or did it have no effect either way? ** Helped relationship........................... Hurt relationship ............................... Had no effect either way ................... Not sure ..........................................

[253]

42 14 33 11

** Asked of one-half the respondents (FORM B).

38.

If North Korea continues with its weapons development program and continues to launch test missiles, do you believe that the United States should or should not initiate military action to destroy North Korea's ability to make weapons? If you have not been following this situation, please just say so. (IF "SHOULD" OR "SHOULD NOT," ASK:) And do you feel strongly about that, or not?

Should Initiate Military Action Feel strongly................................................... Do not feel strongly ........................................ Should Not Initiate Military Action Do not feel strongly ........................................ Feel strongly................................................... Have not been following situation..................... Not sure..........................................................

6/09**

10/1316/06+

7/06

34 10

24 8

30 12

12 27 6 11

15 42 3 8

12 34 4 8

[254]

** Asked of one-half the respondents (FORM B). + Results shown reflect responses among registered voters.

Getting near the end of the survey. . . 39.

Now let me read you two brief statements on affirmative action programs, and ask which one comes closer to your own point of view. Statement A/Affirmative action programs are still needed to counteract the effects of discrimination against minorities, and are a good idea as long as there are no rigid quotas. Statement B/Affirmative action programs have gone too far in favoring minorities, and should be ended because they unfairly discriminate against whites. (IF RESPONDENT MAKES A CHOICE, ASK:) Do you feel strongly about that, or not?

Statement A/Strongly........................ Statement A/Do not feel strongly...... Statement B/Do not feel strongly...... Statement B/Strongly........................ Not sure............................................

6/09 37 26 8 20 9

1/03 32 17 13 30 8

+ Results shown reflect responses among registered voters.

3/00 33 21 11 26 9

9/95 33 17 13 30 7

3/95 31 21 13 27 8

3/91+ 40 21 11 17 11

[255]

HART/McINTURFF June 2009

Study #6095--page 22 NBC/Wall Street Journal Survey

FACTUALS: Now I am going to ask you a few questions for statistical purposes only. F1a.

Are you currently registered to vote at this address? Registered ........................................ Not registered ................................... Not sure ..........................................

F1b/c.

A lot of people are unable to get out and vote for many reasons. Did you happen to vote in last November's election for president? (IF “YES,” ASK:) For whom did you vote––Barack Obama, John McCain, or someone else? Yes, Voted Voted for Barack Obama ................ Voted for John McCain ................... Voted for someone else.................. Not sure ......................................... Did not vote/not sure.........................

F2.

[256]

88 10 2

41 32 4 5 18

[257-258]

Are you currently employed? (IF CURRENTLY EMPLOYED:) What type of work do you do? (IF NOT CURRENTLY EMPLOYED:) Are you a student, a homemaker, retired, or unemployed and looking for work? Currently Employed [259-260] Professional/ manager .................... 22 White-collar worker ......................... 16 Blue-collar worker ........................... 14 Farmer, rancher .............................. 1 Not Currently Employed Student ........................................... 3 Homemaker .................................... 4 Retired ............................................ 27 Unemployed, looking for work......... 9 Other............................................... Not sure .......................................... 4

F3.

What is the last grade that you completed in school? Grade school........................................................... Some high school.................................................... High school graduate .............................................. Some college, no degree ........................................ Vocational training/2-year college ........................... 4-year college/bachelor's degree ............................ Some postgraduate work, no degree ...................... 2-3 years postgraduate work/master's degree ........ Doctoral/law degree ................................................ Not sure/refused....................................................

1 5 25 17 11 23 3 10 2 3

[267-268]

HART/McINTURFF June 2009 F4.

Study #6095--page 23 NBC/Wall Street Journal Survey

Generally speaking, do you think of yourself as a Democrat, a Republican, an independent, or something else? (IF "DEMOCRAT" OR "REPUBLICAN," ASK:) Would you call yourself a strong (Democrat/Republican) or not a very strong (Democrat/Republican)? (IF "INDEPENDENT," ASK:) Do you think of yourself as closer to the Republican Party, closer to the Democratic Party, or do you think of yourself as strictly independent? Strong Democrat........................................ Not very strong Democrat .......................... Independent/lean Democrat....................... Strictly independent ................................... Independent/lean Republican .................... Not very strong Republican........................ Strong Republican ..................................... Other (VOL) ............................................. Not sure ...................................................

F5.

[269]

Thinking about your general approach to issues, do you consider yourself to be liberal, moderate, or conservative? (IF "LIBERAL" OR "CONSERVATIVE," ASK:) Do you consider yourself to be very (liberal/conservative) or somewhat (liberal/conservative)? Very liberal........................................ Somewhat liberal .............................. Moderate .......................................... Somewhat conservative ................... Very conservative ............................. Not sure ..........................................

F6a.

21 10 10 18 9 7 14 7 4

[270]

9 13 36 18 17 7

What is your religion? Protestant (includes Baptist, Lutheran, Methodist, Episcopal, Presbyterian, and other Christians) ......................................... Catholic.................................................................................... Jewish...................................................................................... Muslim ..................................................................................... Mormon/LDS/Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints ..... Other...................................................................................... None ...................................................................................... Not sure/refused ...................................................................

51 21 1 1 1 6 13 6

CONTINUE

[271]

Skip to Q.F7

CONTINUE

(ASK ONLY OF RESPONDENTS WHO SAY PROTESTANT, OTHER, NONE, OR NOT SURE IN Q.F6a.) F6b. Would you describe yourself as either a fundamentalist or an evangelical Christian, or would you not describe yourself that way? Fundamentalist/evangelical ........................... Neither fundamentalist nor evangelical .......... Not sure ....................................................... Catholics/Jewish/Muslim/Mormon (Q.F6a) .....

F7.

19 47 10 24

[272]

How often do you attend services at a church, synagogue, mosque, or other place of worship? Never ................................................ Once a year ...................................... A few times a year ............................ Once a month ................................... About twice a month ......................... Once a week or more often .............. Not sure ..........................................

17 7 16 7 9 39 5

[273]

HART/McINTURFF June 2009 F8.

Study #6095--page 24 NBC/Wall Street Journal Survey

Are you a current or retired labor union member? (IF “NO,” OR “NOT SURE,” ASK:) Is anyone else in your household a current or retired labor union member? Labor union member ........................ Union household .............................. Non-union household ....................... Not sure..........................................

15 8 73 4

[274-275]

(ASK ONLY OF RESPONDENTS WHO SAY THEY HAVE A PRIVATE HEALTH INSURANCE PLAN IN Q31c.) F9. How concerned are you about losing your health insurance coverage--very concerned, somewhat concerned, not very concerned, not at all concerned? Very concerned ................................ Somewhat concerned....................... Not very concerned .......................... Not at all concerned.......................... Not sure ..........................................

F10.

[276]

In your household, what kind of car do you have––only domestic, only foreign, or both domestic and foreign? Only domestic................................... Only foreign ...................................... Both .................................................. Do not have a car ........................... Not sure ..........................................

F11.

27 17 24 28 4

45 22 25 4 4

[277]

If you added together the yearly income of all the members of your family who were living at home last year, would the total be less than ten thousand dollars, between ten thousand dollars and twenty thousand dollars, between twenty thousand dollars and thirty thousand dollars, between thirty thousand dollars and forty thousand dollars, between forty thousand dollars and fifty thousand dollars, between fifty thousand dollars and seventy-five thousand dollars, between seventy-five thousand dollars and one hundred thousand dollars, or would the total be more than that? Less than $10,000 ............................ Between $10,000 and $20,000 ......... Between $20,000 and $30,000 ......... Between $30,000 and $40,000 ......... Between $40,000 and $50,000 ......... Between $50,000 and $75,000 ......... Between $75,000 and $100,000 ....... More than $100,000.......................... Not sure/refused .............................

4 7 8 9 10 15 11 18 18

[278]