Zone 3- Euro-Americas Summary, Week # 114

Dated 4–10 April, 2010

WEST EUROPE

Britons Despondent About Economy as Election Nears

Many adults in Britain believe the country has not rebounded from the global financial crisis, according to a poll by Angus Reid Public Opinion. 83 per cent of respondents rate the economic conditions in the United Kingdom as poor or very poor.

April 06, 2010

British Tories Start Campaign with 11-Point Lead

Britain’s Conservative Party holds a comfortable lead over Labour as the electoral campaign begins, according to a poll by Angus Reid Public Opinion. 37 per cent of respondents would vote for the Tories in the May ballot, down one point since early April.

April 10, 2010

Sarkozy’s Popularity Slides Further in France

Just over a third of people in France are still satisfied with Nicolas Sarkozy, according to a poll by LH2. 35 per cent of respondents have a positive opinion of the president, down four points since February.

April 09, 2010

NORTH AMERICA

Green Behaviors Common in U.S., but Not Increasing

Americans are today no more environmentally friendly in their actions than they were at the turn of the century. While more than three in four recycle, have reduced household energy use, and buy environmentally friendly products, these numbers have barely budged since 2000.

April 9, 2010

Democratic Party Image Drops to Record Low

Americans' favorable rating of the Democratic Party dropped to 41% in a late March USA Today/Gallup poll, the lowest point in the 18-year history of this measure. Favorable impressions of the Republican Party are now at 42%, thus closing the gap between the two parties' images that has prevailed for the past four years.

April 8, 2010

Voters Rate Economy as Top Issue for 2010

Fifty-seven percent of registered voters say the economy will be extremely important to their vote for Congress this year, making it the top issue in the 2010 elections. Healthcare, unemployment, and the federal budget deficit rank behind the economy in importance, with the environment the least important of the seven issues tested in the March 26-28 USA Today/Gallup poll.

April 8, 2010

Voters Issue Strong Rebuke of Incumbents in Congress

A record-low percentage of U.S. voters -- 28% -- say most members of Congress deserve to be re-elected. The previous low was 29% in October 1992.

April 7, 2010

Parties Even in Congressional Midterm Preferences

Gallup Daily tracking for the week ending April 4 finds the two major parties tied at 46% in the congressional voting preferences of registered voters nationally. In the two weeks since Congress passed healthcare reform on March 21, Democrats have tied or trailed the Republicans, after having at least a slight advantage in the weeks prior.

April 7, 2010

U.S. Birth Rate Decline Linked to Recession

Birth rates in the United States began to decline in 2008 after rising to their highest level in two decades, and the decrease appears to be linked to the recession, according to a Pew Research Center analysis of state fertility and economic data.

April 6, 2010

Most Support Stronger Regulations on Big Banks, Taxing Them To Pay Back Bailouts

Legislative proposals to regulate financial institutions and limit their size have the support of a majority of likely voters, including 55% who favor a tax on large banks to cover any government losses from bailouts.

April 08, 2010

Americans' Confidence in Banks Remains at Historical Low

As the Senate considers financial reform legislation, a new Gallup poll shows that Americans' confidence in banks has not returned on Main Street as it has on Wall Street. The percentage of Americans saying they have a "great deal" or "quite a lot" of confidence in U.S. banks is now 20% -- not much different from the 18% of a year ago or the 22% of last summer. Four in 10 Americans currently say they have "very little" confidence in U.S. financial institutions.

April 6, 2010

Americans Prioritize Energy Over Environment for First Time

Americans are more likely to say the U.S. should prioritize development of energy supplies than to say it should prioritize protecting the environment, the first time more have favored energy production over environmental protection in this question's 10-year history.

April 6, 2010

U.S. Job Creation Improves in the West in March

Gallup's Job Creation Index -- based on 16,778 U.S. employees' self-reports of hiring and firing activity at their workplaces -- shows that employees' perceptions of current job market conditions nationwide were essentially unchanged in March. Twenty-six percent report that their companies are hiring, while 24% say their companies are letting people go.

April 2, 2010

Half of Americans Back High-Speed Railways

Many adults in the United States are in favour of a proposal to create ten regional high-speed rail corridors in the country, according to a poll by Angus Reid Global Monitor. 49 per cent of respondents support this idea, while 26 per cent oppose it.

April 08, 2010

Canadians Content with Governor General Jean

Many adults in Canada are satisfied with the performance of their governor general, according to a poll by Angus Reid Public Opinion. 57 per cent of respondents approve of the way Michaëlle Jean has handled her duties, while 26 per cent disapprove.

April 05, 2010

LATIN AMERICA

Majority in Mexico Share Neighborhoods With Gangs

Nearly three years after Mexico launched its war against the drug cartels, Gallup data show drug traffickers and gangs remain entrenched in many neighborhoods -- particularly in Mexico's northern and central regions. More than half of Mexicans surveyed in August 2009 said gangs are present in their vicinity and 43% said drug trafficking takes place there.

April 9, 2010

MULTI-COUNTRY POLLS

Hungary Dissatisfied with Democracy, but Not its Ideals

With parliamentary elections approaching, Hungarians are in a funk. Nearly unanimously, they say the economy is in bad shape, and a stunning 72% say most Hungarians are actually worse off now economically than they were under communism. But Hungary's malaise is not all about economics -- most are frustrated with politics too. Overwhelmingly, Hungarians are dissatisfied with the way democracy is working and discontent with political elites, with about three-in-four saying political corruption is a major problem.

April 7, 2010

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The complete detailed weekly reports of the project can be found on theGilani Research Foundation website.

Zone 3- Euro-Americas Summary, Week # 113

EAST EUROPE
Ukrainians Likely Support Move Away From NATO
Ukrainians may support their new government's plans to prohibit the country from joining military alliances, which would effectively end its six-year pursuit of NATO membership. Residents in May 2009 were more than twice as likely to see NATO as a threat (40%) than as protection (17%). One in three said it was neither.
April 2, 2010
Ukraine Says 'No' to NATO
Pew found that half of Ukrainians (51%) opposed their country's admission to NATO, while only 28% favored such a step. Moreover, given the opposition to membership, it is not surprising that about half of Ukrainians (51%) gave NATO an unfavorable rating.
March 29, 2010
Russians Don’t Want Closer Ties with U.S.
Few people in Russia want their country to seek improved relations with the United States, according to a poll by the Yury Levada Analytical Center. Only 14 per cent of respondents advocate for closer bi-lateral ties, down 10 points since March 2003.
April 01, 2010
WEST EUROPE
Germans Reject Monetary Aid to Greece
Over two thirds of people in Germany oppose a plan to give monetary aid to Greece, according to a poll by Forsa released by Stern. 68 per cent of respondents reject the notion of Germany providing Greece with financial assistance.
April 03, 2010
Tories No Longer Lead by Double-Digits in Britain
The opposition Conservative Party remains ahead of its rivals in Britain, according to a poll by Angus Reid Public Opinion. 37 per cent of respondents would support the Tories in this year’s election to the House of Commons.
April 02, 2010
NORTH AMERICA
Most Americans Worried About Economic Conditions
Many adults in the United States remain concerned about the country’s financial standing, according to a poll by Angus Reid Public Opinion. 81 per cent of respondents rate the economic conditions in the U.S. as poor or very poor.
March 30, 2010
One-in-Four Americans Approve of U.S. Congress
More Americans are content with the work of their legislative branch this month, according to a poll by Angus Reid Public Opinion. 24 per cent of respondents approve of the performance of Congress, up six points since February.
March 29, 2010
Obama Approval Steady at 48% in U.S.
Public support for Barack Obama did not go to any significant shifts in the United States this month, according to a poll by Angus Reid Public Opinion. 48 per cent of respondents approve of their president’s performance.
March 28, 2010
Chronic Conditions Linked to Cancer
Americans who report having been diagnosed with high blood pressure, high cholesterol, or diabetes are roughly twice as likely to report a cancer diagnosis as those who have not been diagnosed with these conditions, according to Gallup-Healthways Well-Being Index data.
April 1, 2010
Blame Spread Around for Post-Healthcare Vandalism, Threats
Americans hold all sides of the healthcare reform battle responsible for the rash of threatening e-mails, phone calls, and vandalism that erupted last week after the healthcare bill passed in the U.S. House of Representatives. Roughly half (49%) say controversial political maneuvers by Democratic leaders to secure the votes they needed were a major reason. Nearly as many blame harsh criticism of the bill by both conservative media commentators and Republican leaders.
March 30, 2010
Americans Remain Concerned About Costs of Healthcare Bill
One week after the passage of historic new healthcare legislation, Americans remain worried about the bill's effect on costs -- both for the nation as a whole and for them personally. A majority of Americans say healthcare costs in the U.S. and the federal budget deficit will get worse as a result of the bill. Half of Americans believe that healthcare costs for themselves and their families will get worse.
March 30, 2010
Pope Benedict Favorable Rating Drops to 40% in U.S.
A new low of 40% of Americans view Pope Benedict XVI favorably amid new criticism about the Roman Catholic Church's handling of child sex abuse by priests. Now, nearly as many Americans have an unfavorable view of the pope as have a favorable view.
March 31, 2010
Republicans Move Ahead in 2010 Vote for Congress
Registered voters now say they prefer the Republican to the Democratic candidate in their district by 47% to 44% in the midterm congressional elections, the first time the GOP has led in 2010 election preferences since Gallup began weekly tracking of these in March.
April 1, 2010
Congress in a Word
When Pew asked Americans to provide a one word description of their impression of Congress, 86 percent of respondents said something negative while just 4 percent gave a positive word. The three most frequently offered terms were dysfunctional (21 people offered this), corrupt (20) and some version of selfish (19). Many of the words reflected perceptions that Congress has been unable or unwilling to enact legislation (inept, confusing, gridlock, etc.).
March 22, 2010
Most Canadians Support Quebec’s Veil Ban
People in Canada agree with Quebec’s proposal to instruct people to show their faces in order to receive government services, according to a poll by Angus Reid Public Opinion. 80 per cent of respondents approve of this legislation.
March 29, 2010
Canadians Oppose Afghan Combat Beyond 2011
People in Canada reject the possibility of extending the country’s military commitment in Afghanistan beyond the current timetable, according to a poll by Angus Reid Public Opinion. 79 per cent of respondents oppose Canadian troops taking part in a combat mission after 2011.
April 03, 2010
Most Canadians Pleased with Economic Conditions
A majority of people in Canada believe the country’s financial standing is satisfactory, according to a poll by Angus Reid Public Opinion. 54 per cent of respondents rate the economic conditions in Canada today as good or very good, up two points since February.
April 01, 2010
LATIN AMERICA
Brazilians Just Enamoured with Lula
With a presidential election in the horizon for Brazil, the popularity of Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva keeps growing, according to a poll by Datafolha published in Folha de Sao Paulo. 76 per cent of respondents say Lula’s presidency has been good or very good, up four points since February.
April 03, 2010
Brazil’s Rousseff is Becoming a Stronger Contender
The first round of the next presidential election in Brazil could be a tight contest, according to a poll by Ibope. 35 per cent of respondents would vote for Jose Serra of the Brazilian Party of Social Democracy (PSDB), while 30 per cent would support Dilma Rousseff of the Workers’ Party (PT).
April 01, 2010
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The complete detailed weekly reports of the project can be found on theGilani Research Foundation website.

Zone 3- Euro-Americas Summary, Week # 112

EAST EUROPE

United Russia Maintains Huge Advantage
The ruling party in the Russian Federation maintains a considerable lead, according to a poll by the All-Russian Public Opinion Research Center. 53 per cent of respondents would vote for United Russia (YR) in the next election to the State Duma.
March 25, 2010

WEST EUROPE

Britons Disapprove of Government’s Budget
Many people in Britain are not satisfied with their government’s latest spending plan, according to a poll by Angus Reid Public Opinion. 54 per cent of respondents disapprove of the budget presented by the administration headed by Gordon Brown.
March 27, 2010
Sarkozy’s Disapproval Rating Hikes in France
The unpopularity of French president Nicolas Sarkozy has continued to grow, according to a poll by Ifop published in Paris Match. 64 per cent of respondents disapprove of Sarkozy’s performance, up four points since February.
March 27, 2010

NORTH AMERICA

A Third of Americans Agree with Tea Party
Many people in the United States support the ideas of the National Tea Party movement, according to a poll by Angus Reid Public Opinion. 37 per cent of respondents agree with the movement’s core policies, while 25 per cent disagree with them.
March 24, 2010
Health Care Legislation Divides Views in the U.S.
Americans are split over the health care reform bill recently signed into law by United States president Barack Obama, according to a poll by Angus Reid Public Opinion. 42 per cent of respondents are dissatisfied with this development, while 39 per cent are satisfied.
March 26, 2010
Majority of Poor, Young, Uninsured Back Healthcare Bill
While 49% of Americans overall say Congress' passing healthcare reform is a "good thing," support is greater among Americans who currently lack health insurance. Passage of the bill also enjoys broad support among two of the populations least likely to have health insurance: younger adults and adults living in lower-income households. Older, higher-income, and insured Americans have more mixed reactions. The lone exception is seniors, 54% of whom see passage of the bill as a negative.
March 24, 2010
Obama Fares Best Among Healthcare Political Players
President Obama gets higher ratings for the job he did on the healthcare reform process over the past year than either congressional party does, though none of the three primary political actors receives positive reviews from a majority of Americans.
March 24, 2010
By Slim Margin, Americans Support Healthcare Bill's Passage
Nearly half of Americans give a thumbs-up to Congress' passage of a healthcare reform bill last weekend, with 49% calling it "a good thing." Republicans and Democrats have polar opposite reactions, with independents evenly split.
March 23, 2010
Obama Job Approval at 51% After Healthcare Vote
President Barack Obama's job approval stands at 51% after the passage of landmark healthcare legislation. That is slightly better than, though not fundamentally changed from, his ratings for most of this month.
March 25, 2010
Public Remains Deeply Pessimistic About the Economy and Employment
Since January, President Obama's low job rating on the economy has held steady. Just under one-third of Americans (32%) give him positive ratings on the job he is doing on the economy while 68% give him negative ratings. In January, 31% gave him positive marks and 69% gave him negative ones.
March 18, 2010
U.S. Support for Nuclear Power Climbs to New High of 62%
Americans' support for the use of nuclear power has inched up to 62%, establishing a new high ever since Gallup started asking this question.
March 22, 2010
Canadians Split on Afghan Detainee Controversy
People in Canada are divided on how to deal with a recent controversy over the treatment of Afghan detainees, according to a poll by Angus Reid Public Opinion. 40 per cent of respondents believe a review of documents is the best course of action, while 33 per cent support holding a full public inquiry.
March 24, 2010
Canadians Review PM’s YouTube Answers
Most Canadians disagree with their prime minister’s ideas on senators and drugs stated during a YouTube interview, according to a poll by Angus Reid Public Opinion. 50 per cent of respondents disagree with Stephen Harper’s notion that, "If drugs were legalized, these would never be respectable businesses run by respectable people."
March 23, 2010

LATIN AMERICA

Three-in-Four Brazilians Happy with Lula
A large majority of people in Brazil concede that the presidency of Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva has been positive, according to a poll by Ibope. 75 per cent of respondents say Lula’s performance has been good or very good, down one point since February.
March 26, 2010
Mexico's Fox Talks About Why Leaders Need Wellbeing Data
Former Mexican President Vicente Fox sees wellbeing data as the key to better government policies and more efficient budgets. Fox sat down with Gallup.com at our Washington, D.C., headquarters to discuss Gallup's global wellbeing surveys, spanning 155 countries, and to share his thoughts on how world leaders should use these data to improve their constituents' lives.
March 26, 2010

MULTI-COUNTRY POLLS
The Behavioral Economics of GDP Growth: Gallup Global Wellbeing
Gallup reveals its data of 155 countries on wellbeing. Gallup categorized the respondents into ‘thriving’, ‘struggling’ and ‘suffering’. It shows that majority of population from across the world are either struggling or suffering.
Gallup asks ordinary individuals for their thoughts and opinions on several topics, including economics, religion, migration, and wellbeing. Gallup’s data provide sound evidence on many issues that more than 98% of the world’s adult population faces.
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The complete detailed weekly reports of the project can be found on theGilani Research Foundation website.

Zone 3- Euro-Americas Summary, Week # 111

EAST EUROPE
Medvedev, Putin Early Favourites in Russia
Russia’s two main political leaders are also the top presidential contenders at this point, according to a poll by Bashkirova & Partners. 34 per cent of respondents would vote for current prime minister Vladimir Putin, while 26 per cent would support incumbent president Dmitry Medvedev.
March 15, 2010
Romanians Pessimistic About Country
A large majority of people in Romania think the country is heading in the wrong direction, according to a poll by CURS. 77 per cent of respondents share this opinion.
March 19, 2010
WEST EUROPE
Britons Doubt Afghanistan Will Be Stable in 2015
Many adults in Britain believe foreign soldiers will still be needed in Afghanistan five years from now, according to a poll by Angus Reid Public Opinion. 58 per cent of respondents think the Government of Afghanistan will not be able to run its affairs without the assistance of international troops.
March 17, 2010
Tories Keep Lead, Lib-Dems Gain in Britain
The opposition Conservative Party maintains a steady level of support in Britain, according to a poll by Angus Reid Public Opinion. 39 per cent of respondents would support the Tories in this year’s election to the House of Commons.
March 19, 2010
Just Over a Third of French Trust Sarkozy
Fewer adults in France hold a positive opinion of Nicolas Sarkozy, according to a poll by CSA published in Le Parisien. 36 per cent of respondents have confidence in their president to face the country’s problems, down four points since February.
March 16, 2010
Swedes Want Senior Monarch to Stay Put
Few people in Sweden believe the current monarch should abdicate after he turns 65, according to a poll by Synovate published in Dagens Nyheter. 62 per cent of respondents want King Carl XVI Gustaf to stay on.
March 14, 2010
Greek Cypriots Reject Rotating Presidency
Most people in Greek Cyprus oppose the idea of introducing a rotating presidency in the island, according to a poll by Symmetron Market Research published in Kathimerini. 59 per cent of respondents share this point of view, while 15 per cent would endorse the proposal.
March 17, 2010
NORTH AMERICA
Americans Expect Health Bill to Mainly Help Poor, Uninsured
The majority of Americans believe the healthcare bill Congress is currently considering will benefit those who lack health insurance and lower-income families. Americans tend to see more negative than positive effects on most other groups in society.
March 19, 2010
The Return of the Multi-Generational Family Household
This report documents major changes in family household living arrangements that have unfolded over the past three decades and accelerated during the Great Recession. Its principal focus is on the revival since 1980 of the multi-generational family household.
March 18, 2010
Obama Not Meeting Americans' Lofty Expectations on Issues
Americans' ratings of the job President Barack Obama is doing in three key areas are much less positive than their expectations were for him shortly after he took office. Americans give Obama the best review for protecting the environment and the worst for making America prosperous.
March 17, 2010
Americans Firm in Prioritizing Economy Over Environment
For only the second time in more than two decades and the second straight year, Americans are more likely to say economic growth should take precedence over environmental protection when the two objectives conflict (53%) than to say the reverse (38%).
March 18, 2010
In U.S., Many Environmental Issues at 20-Year-Low Concern
Americans are less worried about each of eight specific environmental problems than they were a year ago, and on all but global warming and maintenance of the nation's fresh water supply, concern is the lowest Gallup has measured. Americans worry most about drinking-water pollution and least about global warming.
March 16, 2010
82% of Public Believe Wall Street Should Be Regulated More Toughly
American attitudes towards Wall Street are ambivalent. Most people believe that Wall Street benefits the country and that what it does is "absolutely essential." However, attitudes towards the people who work on Wall Street are overwhelmingly negative and are far lower than they were before 2008 and the bail-out of large banks and other financial institutions, with little or no improvement over the last year. The net result? Fully 82% of all adults believe that Wall Street should be regulated more toughly.
March 11, 2010
Race for Control of Congress Remains Close
Gallup's weekly read on the race for Congress shows Democrats with a 47% to 44% edge over Republicans among registered voters, unchanged from last week. However, this represents a significantly smaller margin for the Democrats than the final Gallup estimate before the last midterm elections, in 2006.
March 16, 2010
Generational Differences on Abortion Narrow
Gallup analysis of U.S. public opinion trends on abortion shows that generational differences in support for broadly legal abortion have diminished over the past decade. In the mid-1970s, when Gallup started polling on the issue, adults aged 18 to 29 and 30 to 49 were the most supportive of legal abortion under any circumstances, and those 65 and older the least, with 50- to 64-year-olds falling in between. That pattern continued through the late 1990s. Since 2000, however, all age groups with the exception of seniors have shown similar levels of support for broadly legal abortion.
March 12, 2010
Americans' Weekly Spending Hits New High for 2010
With stocks at a new high for the year, pent-up demand from the snowstorms of prior weeks, and perhaps the arrival of some tax refunds, Americans' self-reported spending reached its highest level of the year during the week ending March 14.
March 17, 2010
Americans Split on Placing Reagan on $50 Bill
A proposal to place Ronald Reagan’s likeness on all $50 bills has divided views in the United States, according to a poll by Angus Reid Public Opinion. 41 per cent of respondents support the idea, while 39 per cent oppose it.
March 14, 2010
LATIN AMERICA
Chileans Expect a Good Piñera Government
People in Chile have high expectations for their new government, according to a poll by Adimark Gfk. 59 per cent of respondents expect the country to do well under new president Sebastián Piñera.
March 15, 2010
Chile’s Bachelet Leaves with Enviable Rating
A large proportion of adults in Chile are satisfied with the performance of their outgoing president, according to a poll by Adimark Gfk. 84 per cent of respondents approve of Michelle Bachelet’s performance.
March 13, 2010
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The complete detailed weekly reports of the project can be found on theGilani Research Foundation website.

Zone 3- Euro-Americas Summary, Week # 110

EAST EUROPE
Ruling United Russia Maintains Huge Lead
A majority of Russians would vote for the ruling party in the next legislative election, according to a poll by the All-Russian Public Opinion Research Center. 54 per cent of respondents would support United Russia (YR), down one point since January.
March 08, 2010
Little Appetite for Stalingrad in Russia
A proposal to return the City of Volgograd to its former name of Stalingrad is not popular in Russia, according to a poll by the Yury Levada Analytical Center. Only 17 per cent of respondents support this idea, while 59 per cent oppose it.
March 10, 2010
WEST EUROPE
Tories Maintain Lead Over Labour in Britain
The opposition Conservative Party keeps a comfortable lead in Britain, according to a poll by Angus Reid Public Opinion. 39 per cent of respondents would support the Tories in this year’s general election, down one point since mid-February.
March 13, 2010
Three-in-Five Germans Want New Foreign Minister
Many adults in Germany are dissatisfied with the performance of their current foreign minister, according to a poll by Forsa released by Stern and RTL. 60 per cent of respondents believe Free Democratic Party (FDP) leader Guido Westerwelle is not well-suited for the post.
March 08, 2010
France’s Sarkozy Stuck in Negative Territory
French president Nicolas Sarkozy has not been able to re-build his charismatic brand, according to a poll by LH2. 56 per cent of respondents have a negative opinion of the president, up one point since January.
March 11, 2010
NORTH AMERICA
Americans' Global Warming Concerns Continue to Drop
Gallup's annual update on Americans' attitudes toward the environment shows a public that over the last two years has become less worried about the threat of global warming, less convinced that its effects are already happening, and more likely to believe that scientists themselves are uncertain about its occurrence.
March 11, 2010
U.S. Satisfaction Drops Below 20%
A new Gallup poll finds a continuing decline in Americans' satisfaction with the way things are going in the United States. Now at 19%, satisfaction has reverted to the levels seen in the first few months of the Obama presidency. Satisfaction was 13% when Obama took office in January 2009 but exceeded 30% during most of the summer.
March 10, 2010
In U.S., 45% Favor, 48% Oppose Obama Healthcare Plan
As President Obama begins a final push on healthcare reform, slightly more Americans say they would advise their member of Congress to vote against rather than for a healthcare reform bill similar to the one the president has proposed.
March 9, 2010
The Emotional Cost of Underemployment
Underemployed Americans are significantly more likely to be "struggling" (54%) than employed Americans (38%), according to the Gallup-Healthways Well-Being Index. Those who are underemployed are also less likely to be "thriving," than those who are employed -- 42% versus 61%.
March 9, 2010
Dems Hold Slight Advantage in 2010 Election Preferences
Democrats lead Republicans by a slight 47% to 44% margin when registered voters are asked which party's congressional candidate they would support in their district "if the elections for Congress were being held today."At the same time, Gallup's inaugural weekly tracking update on the 2010 elections shows Republicans with a distinct advantage over Democrats in terms of enthusiasm about voting this year.
March 9, 2010
Upper-Income Spending Drops to New Low in February
Snowstorms, a declining stock market, and the new normal combined in February to drive upper-income Americans' self-reported spending to its lowest level since Gallup began Daily tracking more than two years ago.
March 8, 2010
Fewer Americans Set on Buying Foreign Cars
In their car purchasing decisions, Americans are now less likely to show exclusive loyalty to foreign brands than they were in the recent past. Six percent in a March 4-7 Gallup survey says they would consider only foreign makes when buying a car, compared with 12% in February 2009 and 15% in December 2008. Meanwhile, the percentage who would consider only American cars has leveled off after showing gains from 2008 to 2009.
March 10, 2010
Virtually No Change in Annual Harris Poll Confidence Index from Last Year
For 44 years, since 1966, The Harris Poll has measured how confident the American people are in the leaders of major U.S. institutions. Based on the responses, Harris calculates an overall Confidence Index. Over the years it has gone up and down. In 2002, it touched 65. In 2008, it fell to 44. This year it stands at 53, one point lower than in early 2009.
Mar 09, 2010
Canadians Clearly Support MP Wage Freeze
Most adults in Canada are in favour of a proposal to freeze the wages for MPs, cabinet ministers and senators, according to a poll by Angus Reid Public Opinion. 92 per cent of respondents support this idea, outlined in the latest Speech from the Throne.
March 09, 2010
LATIN AMERICA
Chile's New President Inherits Economic Challenges
New Chilean President Sebastian Pinera inherited several economic challenges other than the devastating effects of earthquake. Chile is the wealthiest nation in Latin America, but the gap between its rich and poor is among the widest in the world-- and Gallup's 2009 survey reveals that nearly three in four Chileans (74%) believe it is getting wider, about on par with previous years.
Half of Mexicans Content with President Calderón
Public support for Felipe Calderón remains stable in Mexico, according to a poll by Consulta Mitofsky. 53.4 per cent of respondents agree with the way the president is governing, up one point since January.
March 07, 2010
Chile’s Bachelet Leaves with Enviable Rating
A large proportion of adults in Chile are satisfied with the performance of their outgoing president, according to a poll by Adimark Gfk. 84 per cent of respondents approve of Michelle Bachelet’s performance.
March 13, 2010
AUSTALASIA
Australians Say Country is Too Crowded
Most people in Australia think their country cannot allow more inhabitants at this time, according to a poll by Essential Research. 75 per cent of respondents say the country lacks the infrastructure and proper services to support a larger population, and 61 per cent say the country’s fragile environment cannot bear the burden of a growing population.
March 09, 2010
MULTI-COUNTRY SURVEYS
Largest European Countries, U.S. and China Agree With Full Body Scanners in Airports
A new Financial Times/Harris Poll of adults under 65 finds support for increased security measures after the attempted bombing of a plane on Christmas Day. Majorities of those surveyed in the United States (64%), Great Britain (62%), Italy (58%), France (58%), and Germany (53%) as well as 46% of Spaniards and 44% of Chinese all agree that body scanners that X-ray the fill body should be introduced at airports.
March 03, 2010
People in European Countries, U.S. and China Concerned Over Online Security
A new Financial Times/Harris Poll among those under age 65 finds there is a sense of concern over online security and while people are doing some things to help keep their data and privacy secure, they may not be doing everything.
March 04, 2010
Four in Five Regard Internet Access as a Fundamental Right: Global Poll
The poll of more than 27,000 adults conducted by GlobeScan found that 87 per cent of those who used the internet felt that internet access should be “the fundamental right of all people.” More than seven in ten (71%) non-internet users also felt that they should have the right to access the web.
March 07, 2010
Canadians, Americans Differ on Political Correctness
People in Canada and the United States do not see eye-to-eye when it comes to "political correctness", according to a poll by Angus Reid Public Opinion. 50 per cent of respondents in Canada support the concept, but only 41 per cent of Americans concur.
March 11, 2010
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The complete detailed weekly reports of the project can be found on theGilani Research Foundation website.

Zone 3- Euro-Americas Summary, Week # 109

EAST EUROPE
Putin, Medvedev Still Very Popular in Russia
Four-in-five Russians are satisfied with the way their prime minister is handling his duties, according to a poll by the Yury Levada Analytical Center. 80 per cent of respondents approve of Vladimir Putin’s performance.
March 06, 2010
WEST EUROPE
Britons Choose Diplomacy in Falklands Dispute
Many adults in Britain believe their government should engage in diplomatic negotiations with Argentina to seek a solution to the recent dispute over oil exploration in the Falkland Islands, according to a poll by Angus Reid Public Opinion. 65 per cent of respondents favour this course of action.
March 07, 2010
Britons Remain Gloomy About Economy
Few adults in Britain hold positive views on their domestic economy, according to a poll by Angus Reid Public Opinion. Only 12 per cent of respondents rate the economic conditions in the United Kingdom as good or very good, down two points since January.
March 05, 2010
Poor Ratings Continue for French Leaders
Public support for French president Nicolas Sarkozy remains low, according to a poll by CSA published in Le Parisien. 40 per cent of respondents have confidence in Sarkozy to face the country’s problems, down one point since January.
March 05, 2010
French Dissatisfaction with Sarkozy Keeps Growing
Just under two thirds of people in France are disappointed with the leadership of Nicolas Sarkozy, according to a poll by Ifop published in Le Journal du Dimanche. 63 per cent of respondents are dissatisfied with the president’s performance, up two points since January.
March 03, 2010
Most Greeks Endorse Government Fiscal Measures
Most people in Greece trust that recent emergency measures implemented by the government will lead the country out of a fiscal crisis, according to a poll by MARC published by Ethnos. 51.3 per cent of respondents share this point of view, but 43 per cent disagree.
March 02, 2010
NORTH AMERICA
Obama Retains More Trust Than Congress on Healthcare
Americans remain more confident in the healthcare reform recommendations of President Obama (49%) than in the recommendations of the Democratic (37%) or Republican (32%) leaders in Congress. But these confidence levels are lower than those measured in June, suggesting that the ongoing healthcare reform debate has taken a toll on the credibility of the politicians involved.
March 5, 2010
Age Groups Differ on Obama More Than on Bush, Clinton
Barack Obama's job approval rating averages 66% among young adults during his presidency, 15 percentage points higher than for senior citizens and at least nine points higher than for any other age group. During their presidencies, George W. Bush's and Bill Clinton's approval ratings showed much less variation by age.
March 4, 2010
The New News Landscape: Rise of the Internet
The overwhelming majority of Americans (92%) use multiple platforms to get news on a typical day, including national TV, local TV, the internet, local newspapers, radio and national newspapers. Some 46% of Americans say they get news from four to six media platforms on a typical day. Just 7% get their news from a single media platform on a typical day.
March 1, 2010
Underemployment 19.8% in February, on Par With January
Gallup Daily tracking finds that 19.8% of the U.S. workforce was underemployed in February, on par with January's 19.9% reading.
March 3, 2010
Almost Half in U.S. Would Expand Nuclear Power
People in the United States appear to favour a proposal to build more nuclear power plants, according to a poll by Angus Reid Public Opinion. 48 per cent of respondents support this idea, while 34 per cent are opposed.
March 04, 2010
Three-in-Four Americans Disapprove of Congress
More Americans are expressing dissatisfaction with their legislative branch, according to a poll by Angus Reid Public Opinion. 73 per cent of respondents disapprove of the performance of Congress, up eight points since January.
March 03, 2010
Most Americans Troubled by Economic Downturn
A large proportion of people in the United States are frustrated by their country’s financial standing, according to a poll by Angus Reid Public Opinion. 83 per cent of respondents rate the economic conditions in the U.S. as poor or very poor.
March 02, 2010
President Obama Gains a Point in U.S.
Public support for Barack Obama is stable in the United States, according to a poll by Angus Reid Public Opinion. 48 per cent of respondents approve of their president’s performance, up one point since January.
March 01, 2010
Half of Canadians Think Economy is Good
For the first time this year, a majority of Canadians are satisfied with the country’s financial standing, according to a poll by Angus Reid Public Opinion. 52 per cent of respondents rate the economic conditions in Canada today as good or very good, up four points since January.
February 28, 2010
LATIN AMERICA
Resilient Chile Well-Poised to Recover After Quake
When Gallup surveyed Chileans in July-September 2009, majorities expressed confidence in the country's national government (58%) and military (54%) -- more confidence than the median for Latin America and the Caribbean and far more confidence than residents in Haiti.
March 5, 2010
Half of Mexicans Content with President Calderón
Public support for Felipe Calderón remains stable in Mexico, according to a poll by Consulta Mitofsky. 53.4 per cent of respondents agree with the way the president is governing, up one point since January.
March 07, 2010
Lula Keeps Extraordinary Rating in Brazil
Brazilian president Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva heads to the final months of his tenure with impressive numbers, according to a poll by Datafolha published in Folha de Sao Paulo. 73 per cent of respondents rate Lula’s performance as good or very good.
March 06, 2010
Lula’s Anointed Candidate Gains in Brazil
The chief of staff of Brazil’s government and presidential candidate for the ruling Worker’s Party (PT) has gained momentum but remains in second place, according to a poll by Ibope. 25 per cent of respondents would vote for Dilma Rousseff in this year’s election, up eight points since November.
March 04, 2010
Columbians Not Happy With The Political Parties
Poll results reveal that although Colombia’s political parties are viewed as very important to democracy, but they receive the worst rating among the country’s public institutions and authorities. Respondents identified a lack of engagement with citizens, lack of transparency, corruption and the lack of ideology as some of the major problems currently faced by political parties.
March 04, 2010
Haitians Express High Resolve, Community-Mindedness
Despite the oft-reported challenges facing Haiti's recovery process, Gallup polling in the country before the earthquake suggests its people have much to offer toward building a new future. More than 8 in 10 Haitians (81%) surveyed in December 2008 said they have a particular talent of some kind -- easily the highest proportion among 12 Central American and Caribbean populations of which the question was asked.March 1, 2010
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The complete detailed weekly reports of the project can be found on theGilani Research Foundation website.

Zone 3- Euro-Americas Summary, Week # 108

EAST EUROPE
Top Two Czech Parties Gain as Election Nears
The Czech Republic’s main political parties have gained public backing, according to a poll by Median. 32 per cent of respondents would vote for the opposition Czech Social Democratic Party (CSSD) in the next legislative election, up 2.7 points since mid-December.
February 23, 2010
WEST EUROPE
Most Britons Still Oppose Afghan Mission
A majority of people in Britain is against the military operation involving British soldiers in Afghanistan, according to a poll by Angus Reid Public Opinion. 52 per cent of respondents oppose the mission, down four points since November.
February 25, 2010
Swiss Want to Maintain Banking Secrecy Laws
Most people in Switzerland disagree with ending banking secrecy legislation, according to a poll by Isopublic published in Le Matin. 62 per cent of respondents oppose abolishing banking secrecy, while 35 per cent support this notion.
February 24, 2010
Most Italians Have No Confidence in Berlusconi
The majority of people in Italy say their prime minister does not inspire trust, according to a poll by IPR Marketing published in La Repubblica. 46 per cent of respondents have confidence in Silvio Berlusconi, while 52 per cent do not.
February 23, 2010
Germans Reject Offering Financial Aid to Greece
A large proportion of people in Germany are against using government funds to help Greece’s struggling economy, according to a poll by Emnid released by N24. 71 per cent of respondents oppose using German tax money to provide financial aid to Greece.
February 23, 2010
Greeks Agree with Need for Austerity Measures
Most people in Greece admit that recent austerity measures tabled by the government are both fair and necessary to get the country out of a deep economic crisis, according to a poll by Alco published in Proto Thema. 65 per cent of respondents share this point of view, while 24.9 per cent disagree.
February 22, 2010
NORTH AMERICA
Support for Israel in U.S. at 63%, Near Record High
For the first time since 1991, more than 6 in 10 Americans -- 63% -- say their sympathies in the Middle East situation lie more with the Israelis than with the Palestinians. Fifteen percent side more with the Palestinians, down slightly from recent years, while a combined 23% favor both sides, favor neither side, or have no opinion.
February 24, 2010
Americans See U.S. Military as No. 1 Now, But Not in 20 Yrs
While 64% of Americans believe the U.S. is the No. 1 military power in the world today, many fewer (36%) believe that the U.S. will be No. 1 militarily in 20 years. At the same time, most Americans believe the U.S. will continue to have combat troops regularly involved in fighting around the world over the next two decades.
February 26, 2010
Favorability Ratings of Labor Unions Fall Sharply
Favorable views of labor unions have plummeted since 2007, amid growing public skepticism about unions’ purpose and power. Currently, 41% say they have a favorable opinion of labor unions while about as many (42%) express an unfavorable opinion. In January 2007, a clear majority (58%) had a favorable view of unions while just 31% had an unfavorable impression.
February 23, 2010
Six in 10 Underemployed Not Hopeful About Finding Work
Gallup Daily tracking during January reveals that 61% of the underemployed are not hopeful they will find a job within the next four weeks, while 39% are hopeful.
February 23, 2010
Spending Less Becoming New Norm for Many Americans
The recession and financial crisis have resulted in a significant change in the way many Americans feel about spending and saving. Six in 10 Americans (62%) now say they more enjoy saving than spending -- while 35% say the reverse. This reflects a shift that began in December 2008 and a marked change from the first half of the decade, when Americans were about evenly split regarding whether they more enjoyed spending or saving.
February 25, 2010
Fewer Americans Support Health Care Reform Bill
Adults in the United States are less enthusiastic about the health care reform bill passed by the Senate in December, according to a poll by Angus Reid Public Opinion. Only 28 per cent of respondents support the legislation, down eight points since January.
February 21, 2010
Half of Americans Reject Waterboarding
Most people in the United States are against the use of a procedure known as waterboarding on suspected terrorists, according to a poll by Angus Reid Public Opinion. 49 per cent of respondents disapprove of the U.S. military and intelligence agencies relying on this practice, while 39 per cent approve.
February 25, 2010
Americans Back Plan to Fine Airlines for Delays
Many adults in the United States are in favour of the federal government’s decision to fine airlines for long tarmac delays, according to a poll by Angus Reid Public Opinion. 58 per cent of respondents support the measure, while 24 per cent oppose it.
February 24, 2010
More Americans Support Afghanistan Mission
More adults in the United States are now in favour of the ongoing military operation in Afghanistan, according to a poll by Angus Reid Public Opinion. 54 per cent of respondents support the mission involving American soldiers, up five points since December.
February 23, 2010
Canadians Divided on Afghanistan Mission
Adults in Canada hold differing views on the mission in Afghanistan, according to a poll by Angus Reid Public Opinion. 47 per cent of respondents support the military operation involving Canadian soldiers, while 49 per cent oppose it.
February 24, 2010

LATIN AMERICA
Castañeda, Fujimori Lead Presidential Race in Peru
The mayor of Lima and the daughter of a jailed former president are currently the frontrunners in the race to become the next head of state of Peru, according to a poll by Ipsos, Apoyo, Opinión y Mercado published in El Comercio. 22 per cent of respondents would vote for Luis Castañeda Lossio of the National Solidarity Party (PSN) in next year’s ballot, down one point since January.
February 26, 2010
Three-in-Four Brazilians Satisfied with Lula
Public support for Brazilian president Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva is still high in the last year of his tenure, according to a poll by Ibope. 76 per cent of respondents approve of the president’s performance, down seven points since November.
February 25, 2010
Mexicans Evenly Split on Abortion
The legal status of abortion divides opinions in Mexico, according to a poll by Consulta Mitofsky. 48.8 per cent of respondents agree with allowing women to seek an abortion on a voluntary basis, whereas 45.3 per cent disagree.
February 20, 2010
AUSTRALASIA
New Zealanders Reject GST Hike
Most people in New Zealand oppose a plan to increase the Goods and Services Tax (GST) while reducing income taxes at the same time, according to a poll by UMR Research. 56 per cent of respondents reject the idea, while 33 per cent support it.
February 26, 2010
Half in Australia Content with Rudd
Satisfaction with Australia’s Kevin Rudd remains stable, according to a poll by Newspoll published in The Australian. 50 per cent of respondents are content with the prime minister’s performance, unchanged since late January.
February 25, 2010
Australians Would Ban Shopping Mall Campaigning
Most people in Australia agree with a proposal to ban politicians from campaigning in shopping malls, according to a poll by Essential Research. 57 per cent of respondents support this initiative, while 28 per cent oppose it.
February 23, 2010
Australians Reject Abbott’s Comments on Virginity
The majority of Australians condemn recent comments by opposition leader Tony Abbott suggesting that women should try to preserve their virginity until marriage, according to a poll by Essential Research. 70 per cent of respondents think Abbott should not be giving advice on moral issues related to sex and marriage.
February 21, 2010
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The complete detailed weekly reports of the project can be found on theGilani Research Foundation website.

Zone 3- Euro-Americas Summary, Week # 107

EAST EUROPE
Two-in-Five Russians Would Rely on Death Penalty
Many people in Russia think capital punishment should be fully re-instated and applied, according to a poll by the Russian Public Opinion Research Center. 44 per cent of respondents share this opinion.
February 19, 2010
Few Russians Regard Gorbachev in a Positive Light
Public perceptions on former Soviet leader Mikhail Gorbachev have not changed dramatically in Russia over the past two years, according to a poll by the Yury Levada Analytical Center. Only 13 per cent of respondents hold a positive opinion of Gorbachev, while 34 per cent have negative views.
February 15, 2010

WEST EUROPE
French Socialists Ponder Options for 2012 Ballot
Current International Monetary Fund (IMF) chief Dominique Strauss-Kahn and current Socialist Party (PS) leader Martine Aubry are the most popular candidates for the PS presidential nomination ahead of France’s 2012 election, according to a poll by Ifop published in Le Journal du Dimanche. 27 per cent of PS supporters would like Aubry to be the candidate.
February 15, 2010
Tories Keep Double-Digit Lead in Britain
The opposition Conservative Party remains ahead of its rivals in Britain, according to a poll by Angus Reid Public Opinion. 40 per cent of respondents would support the Tories in this year’s general election, up two points in a week.
February 20, 2010
Britons Believe Most MPs Abused Allowances
A large proportion of people in Britain think most Members of Parliament have abused the existing system of allowances, according to a poll by Angus Reid Public Opinion. 50 per cent of respondents say most MPs have misused the expenses system for their own benefit.
February 16, 2010
A Third of Italians Say Immigrants Cause Crime
Some people in Italy believe foreign-born residents are the main cause of crime in the country, according to a poll by Ispo published in Corriere della Sera. 35 per cent of respondents share this view.
February 18, 2010
Opposition Popular Party Favoured by Spaniards
People in Spain are voicing support for the party currently in the Official Opposition in the next legislative election, according to a poll by Sigma Dos published in El Mundo. 43 per cent of respondents would vote for the Popular Party (PP) in the next ballot, essentially unchanged since December.
February 17, 2010

NORTH AMERICA
Americans OK with Obama Meeting Dalai Lama
The majority of people in the United States have no problem with Barack Obama convening with the Dalai Lama, according to a poll by Angus Reid Public Opinion. 64 per cent of respondents agree with the planned meeting between the U.S. president and the Buddhist spiritual leader.
February 16, 2010
Americans’ Rating of United Nations Improved, but Still Low
Thirty-one percent of Americans say the United Nations is doing a good job of solving the problems it has had to face, according to the Feb. 1-3 Gallup World Affairs poll. While still a negative review, the current U.N. rating is a significant improvement over last year's 26% and the best since 2005.
February 19, 2010
In U.S., Canada Places First in Image Contest; Iran Last
Americans' perceptions of 20 nations that figure prominently in the news or U.S. foreign policy held quite steady in the first year of the Obama administration. Canada retained its top position in Gallup's annual country ratings, with 90% of Americans viewing it favorably, unchanged from 2009. Iran continues to rank last, with 10% this year.
February 19, 2010
In U.S., 6 in 10 View Iran as Critical Threat to U.S. Interests
A Gallup poll finds 61% of Americans viewing the military power of Iran as a critical threat to U.S. vital interests over the next 10 years. An additional 29% say Iran is an important, though not a critical, threat to the United States. The findings come as Secretary of State Hillary Clinton is seeking the support of several Arab nations for additional sanctions on Iran in a trip to the region this week.
February 16, 2010
Majorities Not Confident about US Policies in Afghanistan
According to The Harris Poll, a majority of adults continues to give President Obama negative ratings on his handling of Afghanistan. In addition, most are not confident that US policies will be successful. However, the President's standing has improved since November and the majority who support his decision to send an additional 30,000 troops to Afghanistan has also increased by 7 points.
February 11, 2010
Most People Believe Osama bin Laden Is Alive and Many Believe He Is in Pakistan
A new Harris Poll finds that more than three-quarters (78%) of adult Americans believe Osama bin Laden is alive. A plurality (37%) believes that he is living in Pakistan, but many people (32%) do not feel able to even guess where he is.
February 10, 2010
Americans See Slight Improvement in U.S. Global Image
After five years when fewer than half of Americans believed the United States was seen favorably in the eyes of the world, Gallup's decade-long trend lines on this measure have again crossed. Fifty-one percent now say the U.S. is viewed favorably, up from 45% a year ago.
February 15, 2010
Americans More Divided on Strength of National Defense
Americans are more likely now (45%) than they were a year ago (37%) to say the United States' national defense is "not strong enough." At the same time, fewer believe the nation's defense is "about right."
February 18, 2010
One in Three Cite “American People” as Key U.S. Asset
Americans were asked in a recent USA Today/Gallup survey to name the one or two strengths of the United States that make them feel most optimistic about the future of the country and, conversely, the main weaknesses that make them the most pessimistic. The American people themselves, named by 35%, and the nation's military (14%) dominate the list of perceived strengths.
February 17, 2010
Does Google Make Us Stupid?
Respondents to the fourth "Future of the Internet" survey, conducted by the Pew Internet & American Life Project and Elon University's Imagining the Internet Center, were asked to consider the future of the internet-connected world between now and 2020, majorities believe that by 2020 internet search engines would enhance human intelligence instead of decreasing their IQs.
February 19, 2010
Some Americans Expect Higher Unemployment in 2011
People in the United States are divided in their assessment of the country’s employment crisis, according to a poll by Angus Reid Public Opinion. 36 per cent of respondents expect the unemployment rate to be higher a year from now, 25 per cent think it will remain the same, and 26 per cent believe it will be lower.
February 18, 2010
Some Canadians Willing to Pay, Travel for Health Care
Two-in-five Canadians would consider paying or going abroad to seek medical treatment, according to a poll by Angus Reid Public Opinion. 40 per cent of respondents would be willing to pay out of their own pocket to have quicker access to medical services that currently have long wait times, and 42 per cent would consider traveling to another country.
February 19, 2010
Most Canadians Generally Agree with Euthanasia
Most people in Canada support the legalization of euthanasia, according to a poll by Angus Reid Public Opinion. 67 per cent of respondents share this point of view, down four points since August.
February 16, 2010
LATIN AMERICA
Mexicans Evenly Split on Abortion
The legal status of abortion divides opinions in Mexico, according to a poll by Consulta Mitofsky. 48.8 per cent of respondents agree with allowing women to seek an abortion on a voluntary basis, whereas 45.3 per cent disagree.
February 20, 2010
AUSTRALASIA
Australians Would Not Change Flag or Anthem
People in Australia reject the notion of modifying two of their national symbols, according to a poll by Essential Research. 54 per cent of respondents oppose changing the Australian flag, and 52 per cent reject changing the national anthem.
February 19, 2010
Australian Political Scene Becomes Tighter
Australia’s main federal parties are virtually tied, according to a poll by Newspoll published in The Australian. 40 per cent of respondents would vote for the governing Australian Labor Party (ALP) in the next election to the House of Representatives, while 39 per cent would support the Coalition of Liberals and National.
February 17, 2010
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The complete detailed weekly reports of the project can be found on theGilani Research Foundation website.