Welcome to NAVIGATOR – a project designed to better understand the American public’s views on issues of the day and help advocates, elected officials, and other interested parties understand the language, imagery, and messaging needed to make and win key policy arguments.
Methodology
On June 13, 2023, GBAO conducted three focus groups online with independents and soft partisans in AZ-1, NY-19, and WI-1.
Key takeaways
- Despite broad pessimism, views on the economy are now mixed.
- Knowledge of Congress’ record on the economy is thin. And Democrats’ vision on the economy is not particularly clear.
- Our three example members are not well-known, although a handful know of Schweikert’s ethics problems.
- “Specifics” tend to shift constituents negatively—whether they’re specific allegations against members or insulin prices.
- Member-specific criticisms are more effective than describing representatives as part of the “MAGA” movement.
- Few seem to be following the Supreme Court closely, but trust in the Court is split, with participants citing Dobbs.
Views on the Economy Are Now Mixed
Views on the Future Economy Are More Positive
Although Pessimism Is Still Widespread
Little Awareness of Congress’ Actions on the Economy or Health Care
The Republican Vision for the Economy Is Clearer Than the Democratic Vision
The Members Examined Are Mostly Not Well-Known
Top Concerns About Members Largely Focus on Specifics, Whether it Be Policy or Questionable Ethics
Enumerated GOP Cuts Are Shocking
Some Find It Hard To Believe Members Would Hold These Positions, But Move With “Standalone Bill” Proof
Others Explain Some Messages Don’t Affect Them Personally
Messages Make Members Seem “Crooked” or Lacking Empathy, Prioritizing Corporations Over People
Animals Further Suggest Members Are Vulnerable
Member-Specific Criticisms Stronger Than MAGA Attacks
SCOTUS Awareness Is Thin, but Most Are Doubtful the Court Will Make the Right Decisions in the Future
About The Study
GBAO conducted three online focus groups on June 13, 2023 with independents and soft partisans in AZ-1, NY19, and WI-1. Some quotes have been lightly edited for brevity. Qualitative results are not statistically projectable.