The increased importance that politicians have placed on public opinion polls over the last 50 years is due partly to
A) The fact that public opinion polling is provided to political leaders free of charge.
B) The fact that the Supreme Court has struck down a number of state and federal laws that made public opinion polling illegal.
C) The fact that it has become very difficult for political leaders to experience public opinion directly.
D) The fact that media organizations no longer cover political issues as much as they once did.
E) The fact that protections for freedom of speech have increased dramatically.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

With the rise of mass media and increased security concerns, politicians have limited opportunities to directly experience public opinion. As a result, they have come to rely more on public opinion polls to gauge the views of their constituents. Additionally, the widespread availability of polling data and the development of advanced statistical techniques has made it easier for politicians to use public opinion research to shape their strategies and tactics.

The Increased Importance That Politicians Have Placed on Public Opinion