12
ELECTION 2020
1996
1992
2000
2004
2008
2012
2016
2020
In politics, the middle is a moving target: What was a controversial opinion in 1990
could be the prevailing belief today. Politicians recalibrate their messaging—and, often,
their positions—as sentiment shifts. Here’s a look at how U.S. public opinion on 10 major
issues has changed or held steady over the past several presidential election cycles.
EARTH VS. ECONOMY
Prioritize
environment
Equal priority
RELIGION IN ONE’S Prioritize growth
OWN LIFE
Not very important
Fairly important
Very importantMILITARY SPENDING
Too much
About right
Too little
LAWS ON GUN SALES
Make more strict
Keep the same
Make less strictVIEW ON CHINA
Favorable
Unfavorable- CRISES