CBS News/New York Times Second Presidential Debate Panel Survey, October 1988

This survey sought respondents' opinions before and after the second presidential debate on October 13, 1989. Before the debate, respondents were asked their opinions of the Democratic and Republican presidential and vice-presidential candidates, how likely they were to vote in the 1988 presidential election, how they would vote, their choice if they were only voting for president or for vice-president, whether they thought candidates understood the problems that confront a president, and which party would better protect the environment, insure a strong economy, keep the country out of war, and provide all Americans with a chance for a good life. Respondents were also asked which candidate did better in the vice-presidential debate, how much they would worry if Quayle had to succeed Bush as president, and how they would vote in the election for United States House of Representatives in their district. Respondents' opinions were elicited on topics such as government size, the federal budget deficit, government child care, abortion, employer-provided health insurance, federal defense spending, arms control, the death penalty, gun control, and whether the government should negotiate with terrorists. Other questions covered respondents' previous voting behavior, the presidential campaign, President Reagan's performance, and John F. Kennedy's assassination. After the debate, respondents were recontacted and asked to evaluate both candidates' performance. Background information on individuals includes party affiliation, armed forces membership, gun ownership, age, marital status, income, religious preference, and employment status including farm employment, education, race, and union membership.