The Problem of Polling

A recent poll cited by Salon shows one of the largest problems with polling. In an article entitled, "The American people want more government spending," Salon seeks to promote the claim that the people of this country aren't concerned with the deficit. However, this headline is misleading because the poll questions are misleading.

Directly from the results at Gallup :

"Would you favor or oppose Congress passing new legislation this year that would do the following?

Approve additional government spending to create jobs and stimulate the economy.

Favor: 60%
Oppose: 38%
No opinion: 2%

[USA Today/Gallup, June 11-3, 2010 in random sampling of phone interviews]"

Who wouldn't want jobs and a stimulated economy? Of course, there are concerns over how well such a thing does it. In addition, I have major concerns over the lack of background concerning how our ballooning deficit spells danger for future economic growth and stability.