How do Jews feel about President Obama’s efforts to reform health care in America? A new poll of Long Islanders indicates that they’re strongly supportive.
The Newsday/News 12 Long Island/Siena Research Institute poll of 1,037 registered voters in Nassau and Suffolk counties in late September and early October included a sample of 117 Jews — which does give the poll a margin of error of plus or minus 9 percent. (Siena Research Institute director Don Levy said he considers anything over 100 a "good" subsample.) And, of course, this is only surveying Jews in one small area of the country. But it does show Long Island Jews much more favorable of the president on the health reform issue than Long Islanders in general — not particularly surprising considering Obama has a higher approval rating among Jews than among all Americans.
When asked "Do you support or oppose health care reform legislation that is based upon the proposals outlined by President Obama?" 63 percent of Jews are supportive, to just 33 opposed. That compares to a 47-43 margin of support among those surveyed as a whole. Jews were also the most supportive religious group surveyed. Obama had 39 percent support from Catholics and 48 percent from Protestants.
In addition, 63 percent of Jews say "the government must get more involved in managing the health care system" while 35 percent "believe the free market system is the best way to solve problems in our country." That compares to 45 percent of Long Islanders who want government get more involved and 51 percent who believe in the "free market system."
The full poll, which has more specific questions on various aspects of health care reform, can be read here.
