General, Press Release

New Poll: Overwhelming Support for School Choice

Republicans, Democrats, and Independents strongly support giving families educational options this year.

According to a new poll from RealClear Opinion Research, which surveyed more than 2,000 registered voters, the concept of school choice enjoys overwhelming support (72% vs. 18% opposed). This is also true across party lines, with 68% of Democrats, 82% of Republicans, and 67% of Independents saying they support such a policy.

This represents sizable increases in school choice support since the pandemic began.

Changes since April 2020 include the following: 

  • Overall support: 64% -> 72% (+8 pp)
  • Democratic support: 59% -> 68% (+9 pp)
  • Republican support: 75% -> 82% (+7 pp)
  • Independent support: 60% -> 67% (+7 pp)

Statement from Tommy Schultz, CEO of the American Federation for Children:
“These poll numbers are stunning. The past two years have exposed to the world what many in the parental choice movement have known for decades: no single educational environment is right for every child. As the battle over educational freedom continues, party affiliation is secondary to ensuring all families are empowered to choose the best educational setting for their children. We urge policymakers, regardless of party, to act to expand options and opportunity to every child in America and eradicate barriers that prevent families from choosing a learning environment where their children can thrive. As these poll numbers show, there will be consequences if you go against the staggering majority of parents who support this issue.”

Full Details:

QUESTION: OVERALL SUPPORT FOR SCHOOL CHOICE
School choice gives parents the right to use the tax dollars designated for their child’s education to send their child to the public or private school which best serves their needs. Generally speaking, would you say you support or oppose the concept of school choice?

All:

  • Support: 72%
  • Oppose: 18%

Race/Ethnicity: 

  • White: 72% support / 19% oppose
  • Black: 70% support / 17% oppose
  • Hispanic: 77% support / 14% oppose
  • Asian: 66% support / 26% oppose

Party ID:

  • Democrat: 68% support / 22% oppose
  • Republican: 82% support / 12% oppose
  • Independent: 67% support / 20% oppose

Date: February 5 – 9, 2022

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