The public views tougher regulations on financial institutions as an important priority for Congress, but far more want Congress to take action on the job situation and energy policy. In thinking about financial regulation, as many say they worry that the government will go too far in regulating financial markets, making it harder for the economy to grow, as say they worry that the government will not go far enough, leaving the country at risk of another financial crisis.
Congress's overall job ratings remain abysmal. More generally, most Americans express little or no confidence in Washington to make progress over the next year on the biggest issues facing the country. Finally, Supreme Court nominee Elena Kagan, who began making the rounds on Capitol Hill last week, draws mixed ratings from the public, while nearly half offer no opinion about her Senate confirmation.
These are the principal findings from a new weekly survey with a special focus on the themes and issues directly related to Congress. The Pew Research/National Journal Congressional Connection Poll, sponsored by SHRM, will complement the Pew Research Center's ongoing comprehensive surveys on politics, the press, the economy and international affairs.
Read the full report, Public's Priorities for Congress: Jobs and Energy Top Immigration, on the Pew Research Center's Web site.