Mon 5 June 2006
Morals Issue
Recent survey results point out that those who currently control the agenda in Congress, just don't seem to "get it".
Morals Issue
A recent survey demonstrated again that the moral issues people worried about most in their daily lives were very different from the ones dominating political debate. The survey asked Americans to name the most serious moral crisis in America today. Atop the list, 28% cited "kids not raised with the right values." Next came corruption in government and business, followed by greed and materialism, people too focused on themselves, and too much sex and violence in the media. Only 3% named abortion and homosexuality as the nation's top moral challenge. Even among those who attend religious services most often, just 6% picked abortion and homosexuality.
A new research study sponsored by the Faith and Progressive Policy Initiative at the Center for American Progress finds that Republicans are out of step with the values most important to American voters. The Democrats seem to be much more connected to the values that are important to America. Among voters who participated in the survey, 46% voted for President Bush, while 36% voted for John Kerry in 2004.
The Common Good
* 68% of voters strongly agree that the “government should be committed to the common good and put the public’s interest above the privileges of the few” (85% total agree).
* 73% of Democrats, 62% of Independents, and 67% of Republicans strongly agree with a common good focus for government. A similar percentage of voters (68%) strongly agree that “government should uphold the basic decency and dignity of all and take greater steps to help the poor and disadvantaged in America” (89% total agree).
* 72% of voters strongly agree that, “Strengthening our economy over the long term requires helping low-income families get decent work. That means providing a living wage, affordable health care and adequate educational opportunities to help them get back on their feet and take responsibility for their lives” (86% of Democrats, 66% of Independents, and 62 of Republicans strongly agree).
* 51% of American voters strongly agree that, “We must do everything to defend our country, but our democratic and religious traditions demand that we be a force for good in the world and pursue just, peaceful and cooperative global actions” (52% of Democrats, 53% of Independents, and 51% of Republicans strongly agree).
These findings challenge the values agenda of the Republicans currently in control in Congress. They do point to priorities different from the conservative focus on gay rights and abortion.
It’s time for a Moral Vision for America that revives our dreams, trusts in our values, and renews our purpose.
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