ARE BUSH’S BUDGET PROPOSALS WORTH DEFICIT?
Yes 50% No 42 The reason so few support his budget is that Americans continue to be averse to budget deficits, and nearly half think we are in one now. 76% think a budget deficit of nearly $80 billion – which would occur under Bush’s proposed budget – is something to worry about. Only 20% think such a shortfall would not matter much. BUDGET DEFICIT… • Now Is something to worry about 76% Won’t matter much 20 • 3/82 Is something to worry about 79% Won’t matter much 14 In 1982, during Ronald Reagan’s presidency, sentiment was similar. Then, 79% thought a budget deficit of nearly $100 billion was cause for concern. Even a majority of the president’s party — 62% of Republicans — think the possible deficit is something the country should worry about. And the public rejects deficits even when confronted with a trade-off between a deficit and military spending. Then, opinion is divided; 49% would balance the budget, and 46% would increase spending on the military. Would you prefer… Now1/81
