Which of the following statements about the political opinions of Democrats and Republicans in the public is most accurate?
A) Differences between the political opinions of Democrats and Republicans on a wide variety of policy questions are smaller today than during any other period in the last forty years.
B) Differences between the political opinions of Democrats and Republicans on a wide variety of policy questions are greater today than during any other period in the last forty years.
C) The differences between the political opinions of Democrats and Republicans have always been the same throughout American history and have not become more intense over the last forty years.
D) Republicans and Democrats have similar opinions on all political issues with the exception of national security-where Democrats are more "hawkish" than Republicans.
E) The political opinions of Democrats and Republicans in the public are unaffected by the opinions of party leaders.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Studies have shown that the political opinions of Democrats and Republicans in the public have become more polarized on a wide variety of policy questions over the last forty years. This polarization has led to greater differences between the two parties on issues such as taxes, social welfare programs, and national security. The increasing polarization has been attributed to a variety of factors, including increased media consumption and the rise of social media, as well as the increasing use of partisan rhetoric by political elites.

Which of the Following Statements About the Political Opinions of Democrats