As with all polls, the timbre, syntax, inflection, and word choice greatly influences the outcome of the responses–although Rasmussen tries to eliminate this factor as much as they can. Nevertheless, one can’t help but wonder, what if the questions were asked differently? (Proposed Changes are in Red)
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1* Regardless of what they think of the overall plan, many people have different opinions on individual reform proposals. I am going to read you a list of items included in the proposed health care legislation. For each please let me know if you Strongly Favor, Somewhat Favor, Somewhat Oppose, or Strongly Oppose that proposal.
Okay, the plans before Congress would prohibit people from choosing insurance plans with lower premiums and higher deductibles.
The plans before Congress reduce an individual’s choices in regards to lower premiums and higher deductibles.
8% Strongly favor
16% Somewhat favor
19% Somewhat oppose
45% Strongly oppose
11% Not sure
2* The plan would require nearly all employers to provide health insurance for their employees or pay a penalty.
The plan requires employers to spend more money that could be paid in salary in order to comply with a federal regulation that demands they instead provide an insurance package that will invariably be chosen on the basis of cost to the company…
36% Strongly favor
15% Somewhat favor
12% Somewhat oppose
35% Strongly oppose
2% Not sure
3* The plan would provide subsidies to help low-income people buy health insurance and expand Medicaid to help the poorest get insurance.
The plan takes tax dollars and distributes them to people of the government’s choosing. (more…)
