Portrait of a President of the United States - American Bible Society Conducts Zogby Poll That Reveals the Answer
by Staff
February 7, 2008
NEW YORK, (christiansunite.com) -- The American Bible Society has discovered what America wants in a President, based upon research done through a Zogby Poll. A nationwide survey of likely voters shows that the majority of those questioned want someone who mirrors biblical ideals of leadership. Truthfulness and integrity, by far, topped the list of the characteristics respondents feel are most important. And they say they want a leader who is, in essence, a servant and mindful of accountability to God.Three-quarters of the likely voters agree that it is appropriate that every President since George Washington has been sworn into office with a hand on a Bible. Also, about six in ten say that they would be more likely to vote for a presidential candidate who speaks publicly about following the example of admirable leaders from the Bible and who consistently uses the Bible for guidance in both public and personal matters.
A whopping 78 percent of respondents--86 percent of women and 68 percent of men--view candidates citing Scripture, when speaking about political positions, as positive.
A surprising number of respondents (95 percent) said they have some interaction with the Bible, ranging from well aware to exploring the contents of the Bible.
Interestingly, younger respondents are more likely to vote for a presidential candidate who sees the office as a privilege to serve others, with a responsibility to God. Some 84 percent of those 18-29 said this would have an impact on their vote, while only 62 percent of respondents 50-64 said this would influence their decision.
In addition, nearly 50 percent of likely voters indicated that they would not vote for a presidential candidate who does not believe in God, while 20 percent said they would vote for such a candidate and another 20 percent agree that this would not affect their vote.
Participants in the poll, conducted January 25-27, were evenly divided geographically and mirror the U.S. population with reference to age and race. The survey of 1008 adults has a margin of error of +/- 3.1 percent.
Those responding tended to be rather well-educated, with 75 percent reporting some college education or having a college degree. And nearly one quarter said they were born-again.
The complete details of the poll are available by writing to rlloyd@americanbible.org or calling 212-408- 8731.
Founded in 1816 and headquartered in New York City, the mission of the American Bible Society is to make the Bible available to every person in a language and format each can understand and afford, so that all people may experience its life-changing message. The American Bible Society Web site is www.Bibles.com.
