Poll: Americans want government to do more

StudyHall.Rocks
Most Americans think government should do more.
Most Americans think government should do more.
Illustration: From a 1917 recruitment poster.
Remember Ronald Reagan’s famous line about the nine most terrifying words in the English language – I'm from the government, and I'm here to help? As it turns out, Americans are not so terrified anymore.
         
      In a January NBC News-Wall Street Journal poll, 58 percent agreed with the statement, "Government should do more to solve problems and help meet the needs of people," according to NBC news.com.The feeling was shared by those surveyed in every age group.
     Only 38 percent agreed with the statement, "Government is doing too many things better left to businesses and individuals," the news organization reports. That percentage was higher among Republicans -- 63 percent believe the government does too much.
     Tonight, President Donald Trump will outline his administration’s plans for the country during the State of the Union address. It’s worth noting that most Americans are looking for action from the government. But what sort of action?
     The Pew Research Center asked just that question in a December 2017 survey. Some issues have overwhelming support. For example, 94 percent believe it is the government’s job to keep the country safe from terrorism. But it’s also true that Americans believe the government has a role in protecting older and vulnerable citizens. Here are some of the responses:
  • 71 percent say the government should be involved in ensuring a basic income for those 65 and older.
  • 69 percent believe the government should be involved in ensuring access to health care.
  • 68 percent believe the government should be involved in ensuring access to high-quality education.
  • 67 percent believe the government should help people get out of poverty.
       But the center also notes that fewer than half think the government is doing a good job in those areas.
       What is the government’s role? Follow StudyHall.Rocks on Twitter or like us on Facebook and tell us what you think.

     Related:

     The State of the Union: An ever-changing message

     The State of the Union: An ender's game