 |
Politics Driving Civility Disorder: A rancorous political environment is primarily responsible for driving a “national civility disorder,” and most Americans say politics is increasingly uncivil, complicating resolution of major issues and deterring people from entering public service, says a new poll by Weber Shandwick, Powell Tate and KRC Research. Reinforcing these perceptions, nearly seven in 10 Americans (67%) expect the upcoming November election process to be uncivil.
Other findings include:
-
Two-thirds (63%) of Americans believe incivility remains a “major problem.” The survey also found that nearly three-quarters (71%) believe civility has declined in recent years and 55% expect the decline to continue, with politics and government being most responsible for the problem.
-
About eight in 10 Americans say political campaigns are uncivil and politics is becoming more uncivil. Substantial majorities think the tone of public discourse is harming America’s future.
-
While only 17% of the public reported being untouched by incivility, fewer Americans this year reported personal experiences with incivility on the road (60% in 2012 vs. 72% in 2011); while shopping (49% vs. 65%); at work (34% vs. 43%); and in their neighborhoods (28% vs. 35%).
Source: Weber Shandwick/Powell Tate/KRC Research
Follow Scott Van Camp: @svancamp01