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Michigan voters worried about economy, divided over democracy, new survey finds

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Data from a new statewide poll gave insights into 600 registered Michigan voters’ thoughts on the economy, democracy and education.

According to the Detroit Regional Chamber survey, the state economy is going in the wrong direction, per 52% of participants. Only 39% think Michigan's economy is on the right track.

The majority of those who think the state is on the wrong track believe this is due to inflation and the cost of goods. Other reasons cited in the data include Biden and the Democratic party, taxes and government spending, the cost of gas and wages being too low.

Despite the worry among the group, the study also found that around 63% of participants believe there are good jobs available.

Thoughts on our politics were also reflected in questions asked about the current state of the country’s democracy.

Around 68% of those who participated were dissatisfied with the condition of democracy.

Of the Democrats surveyed, about 27% associated their dissatisfaction with partisanship and infighting. Roughly 23% of Republicans said Joe Biden and Democrats were the reason for their dissatisfaction.

Education was the final topic of interest in this survey.

When asked about the value of higher education, the Michiganders’ answers showed only a minor shift from a similar study conducted by the Chamber in February of 2023.

About 22% said a four-year college degree is worth the money, while around 52% said it's not worth the investment.

The results of the study were released ahead of the Mackinac Policy Conference, where Michigan is expected to be a contested swing state in the 2024 presidential election.

Ellie Frysztak is a newsroom intern for WCMU.