Fishlinger Optimism Index: More Americans Satisfied With Obama Than Optimistic about Trump

4/6/2017

The new Fishlinger Optimism Index™, a breakthrough measurement of public opinion centered on Americans’ optimism about the future from the Fishlinger Center for Public Policy Research at the University of Mount Saint Vincent, indicates that Americans are more satisfied with former president Barack Obama than optimistic about President Trump. In the first quarter of President Trump’s tenure, those extremely/very satisfied with Mr. Obama stayed in the 40 percent range, with a high of 47 percent following President Trump’s inauguration.

In contrast, those extremely/very optimistic about Mr. Trump held at around 40 percent through the inauguration, but has since dropped significantly. The reduction is greatest among Independents and about equal among Republicans and Democrats. It is unclear whether this across-the-board fall off will become a long-term trend.

Trump Optimism

Survey Methodology
In this study, the Fishlinger Center conducted online national surveys focusing on political issues in the United States. The fieldwork for the polls was conducted using a blended national panel from Survey Sampling, Inc.  Interviews were conducted between November 29-December 16, 2016 and January 3- March 29, 2017 with 1,000 adults. The credibility interval for 1,000 respondents is plus or minus 3 percentage points. The credibility interval is larger for subgroups and for differences between polls. In addition to credibility interval, the polls are subject to other potential sources of error including, but not limited to coverage and measurement error. Data were rim weighted to match the national population on age, sex, Hispanic origin, and race. Question wording and topline results are available by emailing [email protected].

About the Fishlinger Center for Public Policy
The Fishlinger Center for Public Policy Research opened in February 2015 at the University of Mount Saint Vincent.  The Center conducts deep and broad studies of public opinion on key public policy concerns through independent and objective research conducted by students, faculty, and other members of the academic community.

By providing a forum for discourse that can stimulate intelligent dialog about issues that deeply affect all Americans, the Center illustrates and enhances the relationship between the work of the College and the common good.

James F. Donius, Ph.D., director of the Fishlinger Center for Public Policy Research at the University of Mount Saint Vincent, is available to speak to members of the press about the survey, the Fishlinger Optimism Index™, and the Center. To arrange an interview, or for more information about the study, please contact Public Relations at [email protected].

About the University of Mount Saint Vincent
Founded in 1847 by the Sisters of Charity, the University of Mount Saint Vincent offers nationally recognized liberal arts education and a select array of professional fields of study on a landmark campus overlooking the Hudson River. Committed to the education of the whole person, and enriched by the unparalleled cultural, educational and career opportunities of New York City, the College equips students with the knowledge, skills and experiences necessary for lives of achievement, professional accomplishment and leadership in the 21st century.