The mood of voters is one of the most important political factors in an election year. In collaboration with the National NPR network and talk show programs on member stations around the country, we’ll explore what’s at the core of voter anxieties this election season. The shrinking middle class and economic uncertainty is one factor. A recent Pew Research Center analysis of government data finds that the country’s middle class is losing ground. The report finds that while middle class wage earners accounted for 43% of aggregate U.S. income in 2014, down from 62% in 1970. Meanwhile the greatest aggregate income gains have been made among top tier wage earners. Terrorism and fears of an attack on the U.S. are also influencing voter opinions. A recent New York Times/CBS News poll finds that Americans are more fearful of a terrorist attack than at any time since the 9/11 attacks. Our changing national identity and shifting voter demographics also fuel voter opinions, particularly on the immigration debate.
Plus, here in Florida, the Tampa Bay Times reports that the fastest growing segment of voters are those that choose no party affiliation. The amount of people registering to vote as independent has grown to 27%. In both Collier and Lee Counties, NPA voters now outnumber Democrats and in Miami-Dade, Broward and Palm Beach Counties, NPA voters outnumber Republican voters.
We’ll explore what’s behind the shift, what it indicates about voter anxiety and how it could influence campaigning in the battleground state of Florida.
Guests:
Peter Butzin, Member, National Governor Board of Common Cause and former Executive Director of Common Cause Florida
Sharon Harrington, Lee County Supervisor of Elections
Susan MacManus, USF Distinguished Professor and Political Scientist
