Wisconsinites don't have a very optimistic view of the economy and its future.
Usually worries over taxes tops the list of concerns among adult state residents, but not anymore. A new UW Badger Poll shows the biggest concern among those surveyed is the 'economy and jobs'.
"Roughly two in three — two-thirds of them — said that they thought the economy in Wisconsin was in bad times now. … About 40% think it's actually going to get worse over the next year rather than better."
And Project Director Chad Kniss says the questioning was completed a few days ago, which means GM's announcement to cut hundreds of jobs could diminish that level of confidence even more than this poll indicates. Kniss says generally about 17% are extremely or quite worried about paying their bills. But, looking at households making 40,000 or less a year, that number jumps to 31%. The biggest problem? Gas prices.
"Roughly 90% of respondants across the state, no matter where they are in the state, no matter what their income level, they're really concerned about the price of gas. They think it's very problematic, extremely problematic."
Other than the economy, jobs, taxes and gas prices, Kniss says state residents are also concerned about healthcare and state budget issues. Over 500 Wisconsin adults were questioned from April 15th – 23rd by the University of Wisconsin Survey Center.
AUDIO: Jackie Johnson report (MP3 1:42)
