How Satisfied are Americans with the Nation Today?

By Audrey Barrick, Christian Post Reporter Wednesday, January 24, 2007

WASHINGTON – Most Americans are dissatisfied with the way things are going in the Untied States today, a new Gallup Poll found.

The poll found the greatest level of satisfaction, 74 percent, was with the position of women in the nation while the public is least satisfied with the nation's efforts to deal with the level of immigration into the country today, 24 percent.

High satisfaction also came with the nation's military strength and preparedness; the position of blacks and other racial minorities in the nation; the nation's security from terrorism; and the state of the nation's economy.

For the most part, Americans said they are satisfied with the overall quality of life (86 percent). And 70 percent claimed to be satisfied about the opportunity for a person to get ahead by working hard in America.

In terms of religion in the nation, 56 percent said they are satisfied with the influence of organized religion and 39 percent said they were dissatisfied. The level of satisfaction in this aspect decreased from 64 percent in 2001. And 23 percent indicated they want less influence of organized religion while only six percent want more.

Only 35 percent of Americans are satisfied with the moral and ethical climate in the country while 63 percent are dissatisfied, the study further found.

Less than half (41 percent) said they are satisfied with the nation's policies regarding the abortion issue and 34 percent expressed satisfaction with the acceptance of homosexuality in the nation.

Other aspects where Americans feel the least satisfied are the social security and medicare systems; the nation's efforts to deal with poverty and homelessness; and the availability of affordable healthcare.

The Gallup Poll asked Americans to rate these lists of items each January since 2001 with the initial measurement taken just prior to Bush assuming the presidency.

The public's attitude changed the most when it came to the government system and how well it works. Satisfaction dropped 12 percentage points to 56 percent. Less people are also satisfied with the influence of major corporations. The study showed that 46 percent are dissatisfied and want less corporate influence. The highest increase in satisfaction was seen in the amount Americans pay in federal taxes.

Poll results are based on telephone interviews with a randomly selected national sample of 1,018 adults, aged 18 and older, conducted Jan. 15-18, 2007.