Poll: Nearly 40 percent of Arizonans believe elections are rigged
Feb 4, 2016, 12:42 PM
PHOENIX — A lot of Arizonans vote in fewer elections because believe they are rigged to favor wealthy people, corporations or groups, a poll said.
The Rocky Mountain Poll said 38 percent of Arizonans said they vote less because they’re voice is lost in elections that benefit those with deep pockets.
The poll said those surveyed took issue with political action committees and so-called “dark money,” a system that allows political donations to be made secretly.
Disbelief in the election system ran strongest among Democrats aged 55 and under who make less than $100,000 per year.
However, 18 percent of higher income groups also said they feel elections are rigged, as well as 21 percent of Republicans and 28 percent of people over 55.
Arizona is mulling a measure that would require donations exceeding $10,000 to be disclosed, but the poll suggested more steps could be taken to appease voters.
A vast majority of those polled felt donor identities should be posted online, a cap should be placed on donations and laws allowing secret donations should be repealed.
Respondents also said big business and Wall Street have far too much sway in politics and both labor unions and corporations should seek member or stockholder approval before funding a candidate’s campaign.
The poll surveyed 700 Arizona adults between Jan. 6 and Jan. 17.
