ABC News/Washington Post Poll, May 1985

This survey covers a variety of national issues with special emphasis on drug and alcohol abuse. Respondents were asked to rate Reagan's performance as president and to give their opinions on the state of the economy. They were also questioned about the federal budget deficit and possible ways to reduce it. Questions in the drug and alcohol section examined the use of alcohol by the respondent and his or her friends and relatives. Specific questions included whether the respondent had ever had a drug or alcohol problem, whether or not he or she had received treatment for substance abuse, and whether or not drugs or alcohol had caused problems in the respondent's family. Opinions were also elicited on the legalization of certain drugs, on a uniform federal drinking age, and on the prohibition of all alcoholic beverages. Additional topics covered included income taxes and Reagan's trip to Europe including his visit to the Bitburg cemetery. Respondents were also asked if they perceived that public opinion polls affected the way they voted in the last presidential election. Demographic characteristics were recorded.