Welcome to the Number of the Day

February 11, 2021

Forty-nine percent (49%) of voters worry more about giving the federal government power to restrict free speech than about the dangers of spreading fake news and disinformation. A Scott Rasmussen national survey found that 38% disagree and worry more about fake news. Thirteen percent (13%) are not sure.[1]

The survey results highlight significant partisan and ideological differences. Republicans, by a 60% to 34% margin, are more worried about giving the federal government power to restrict free speech and determine which news is appropriate to publish. Independent voters, by a 46% to 33% margin, tend to share that view. Democrats, however, are divided on the question. A narrow plurality (46%) worry more about fake news, while 41% are more concerned about restricting free speech.[1]

Ideologically, most conservatives are more worried about restricting free speech. Moderate and somewhat liberal voters are divided but narrowly express a greater concern about restricting free speech. Very liberal voters take the opposite view. By a 49% to 39% margin, those voters worry more about the spread of fake news and disinformation.[1]