CBS News/New York Times Monthly Poll #2, February 1992

This poll is part of a continuing series of monthly surveys that solicit public opinion on the presidency and on a range of other political and social issues. Respondents were asked to comment on what they thought was the most important problem facing the country, and to give their approval rating of George Bush with respect to his handling of the presidency, foreign policy, and the economy. Questions were posed regarding respondents' vote intentions for the 1992 presidential election, their opinions of potential 1992 presidential candidates, the likelihood of their voting in either a Republican or Democratic presidential primary or caucus, their candidate preferences for the Democratic and Republican presidential nominations, and the issues that presidential candidates should emphasize. Respondents were asked additional questions focusing on relations with Japan, the importance of military service for a presidential candidate, the economy, job discrimination, how well the candidates understood everyday normal people, the way Congress was handling its job, and factors that would raises doubts about a candidate. Those surveyed were also asked about capital gains and gasoline taxes, the presidential vision of George Bush, who among the presidential candidates would be more caring about the needs and problems of people, would be best able to construct a fair tax plan, and would be more likely to end the recession. Other questions dealt with allegations concerning Bill Clinton's manipulation of his draft status and involvement in an extramarital affair. Background information on respondents includes sex, race, age, marital status, education, religious preference, family income, political orientation, and party preference.