PARCA’s most recent public opinion survey finds, once again, aversion to certain taxes, support for public education, and mistrust in state government. At the same time, the survey finds a lack of consensus on how the state should respond to other critical issues.
Among the findings:
- Alabamians continue to rank education as the most important state government activity.
- Large majorities of Alabamians say the state spends too little on education and healthcare.
- Alabamians have an aversion to taxes but say upper-income residents pay too little.
- Alabamians are willing to pay more taxes to support education but do not agree on which taxes should be increased.
- A plurality (48%) of Alabamians would prefer to educate their children in public schools.
- A majority of Alabamians support school choice options.
- A large majority believe private schools receiving state funds should meet all standards required of public schools.
PARCA’s annual public opinion survey was conducted between October 24 and December 26, 2023. The mixed-mode sample includes a mix of respondents from a statewide random digit dialed (RDD) sample of cell and landline numbers and an Internet panel provided by Qualtrics. The poll of over 500 Alabama residents was conducted by Dr. Randolph Horn, Samford University, Assistant Vice President for Enrollment Research and Professor of Political Science.
Results of the survey indicate many opportunities for officials to demonstrate responsiveness to public concerns and leadership in crafting public policy solutions.