America Speaks with Frank Luntz (Video)

‘A master negotiator’: Americans debate Trump and his foreign policy

Thu, 29 May 2025 07:30:00 -0500

President Donald Trump is receiving mixed reviews on foreign policy 100 days into his presidency, according to a new Emerson College poll. His handling of the Russia-Ukraine conflict drew 27% approval, with 52% disapproving and 21% neutral. On the Israel-Hamas war, 46% disapprove of his response, while 30% approve and 24% are undecided. However, Trump fares better on immigration and border security in separate Marquette Law School poll that found a majority of Americans support his approach.

Watch the latest 29-minute episode of America Speaks as pollster and political analyst Dr. Frank Luntz leads a heated debate between Americans sharing their views on Trump’s foreign policy. Opinions were sharply divided, with some praising Trump for his deal-making and America-first stance, while others criticized him for alienating allies and being self-serving.

‘No one likes us’: Americans debate US foreign policy

Thu, 22 May 2025 07:30:00 -0500

As President Trump wraps up his Middle East tour, it’s clear his foreign policy marks a sharp departure from that of former President Joe Biden. He has withdrawn the U.S. from international agreements like the Paris Climate Accord, cut numerous foreign aid programs and pursued closer ties with Russia to end the war in Ukraine. He has also floated the idea of taking over foreign territories, such as Greenland and the Gaza Strip, and imposed severe tariffs on longtime U.S. trading partners, including China.

According to an April 2025 Pew Research poll, just a few months into his presidency, Trump received mixed to negative ratings from most Americans. Among Republicans, however, support tends to follow party lines on key issues. In the case of the Russia-Ukraine conflict, 57% of Republicans say Trump is handling it correctly, while only 16% believe he’s being too soft on Russia. Democrats strongly disagree — 72% say Trump is leaning too far toward Moscow.

Watch the latest 34-minute episode of America Speaks as pollster and political analyst Dr. Frank Luntz talks to Americans about U.S. foreign policy under Trump — specifically, whether China poses a threat, the country’s role in the Russia-Ukraine war and whether Trump’s acceptance of a gift plane from Qatar raises ethical concerns.

‘Get rid of DEI’: Americans debate the country’s future

Thu, 15 May 2025 07:30:00 -0500

Americans have mixed feelings about the country’s future, especially when it comes to politics and the economy. Many expect political divisions to deepen by 2050, and they tend to view the past more favorably than the present. Views on the future vary widely along party lines, with Republicans and Democrats expressing different levels of optimism about what lies ahead.

Watch this 39-minute episode of America Speaks as pollster and political analyst Dr. Frank Luntz leads a discussion with everyday Americans about the country’s future and whether the next generation will be better or worse off.

‘We have so much hate’: Americans debate the divided nation

Thu, 08 May 2025 07:30:00 -0500

America is split right down the middle, with its citizens continuing to clash over big issues like immigrationand the economy. Social media keeps people locked in their own bubbles, ramping up the tension, while trust in the government is at an all-time low. Immigration remains the top divisive issue, with President Trump and his supporters’ stance clashing with other Americans, fueling the ongoing national discord.

Watch the 41-minute episode of America Speaks, where pollster and political analyst Dr. Frank Luntz moderates a heated debate among Americans, largely focused around immigration. In his 35 years of leading focus groups, Dr. Luntz has never seen such anger among participants, strangers before this discussion.

This is the full, unedited version of their conversation.

‘I can speak my mind again’: Voters celebrate America under Trump

Thu, 01 May 2025 07:25:00 -0500

The U.S. is going through a turbulent period early in President Trump’s second term, with a shaky stock market, new tariffspushing up prices, federal job cuts and tough immigrationcrackdowns. These developments have fueled discussions about whether Trump’s 2024 voters remain supportive or are reconsidering their choice amid the instability.

According to an April 2025 Reuters/Ipsos poll, Trump’s approval rating dropped to its lowest point since his return to the White House, with 42% of respondents approving of Trump’s performance, a slight decline from 43% in a the same poll three weeks prior, and a more significant drop from 47% in the hours following his Jan. 20 inauguration. However, Trump’s most loyal followers are very much sticking with him.

Watch the above 32-minute episode of America Speaks as pollster and political analyst Dr. Frank Luntz talks to pleased Trump voters about the American Dream, tariffs, the economy, national divides and personal sacrifices.

‘On fire’: Trump voters evaluate first 3 months of Trump’s second term

Thu, 24 Apr 2025 07:28:00 -0500

President Donald Trump sparked nationwide controversy with a barrage of executive orders as soon as he returned to the White House to commence his second term on Jan. 20, 2025. Since then, Republicans in Congress have been largely supportive of Trump’s initiatives. However, a series of escalating crises has begun to fracture Republican support of the president both within Congress and among the wider U.S. public.

Watch the above 27-minute episode of America Speaks as pollster and political analyst Dr. Frank Luntz asks Trump voters to share their opinions of the president’s performance in his first 90 days back in the Oval Office for his second term.

‘Soft power’: Americans debate US foreign aid cuts

Thu, 17 Apr 2025 07:00:00 -0500

In a typical year, the United States spends between 0.4% to 1.4% of its federal budget on international aid. In 2023, the most recent year for which data is largely complete, that worked out to be around $79 billion, or 1.2%. Much of that aid includes life-saving food and medical supplies, but it also funds clinics, provides for emergency services and helps reduce armed conflicts.

Recently, the Trump administration dramatically reduced funding for the chief agencies charged with distributing U.S. foreign aid, and is now formally dismantling the United States Agency for International Development (USAID).

The administration also cut U.S. funding to the World Food Programme (WFP) in what the United Nations agency called “a death sentence” for millions of humans around the world. The Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) maintains that these cancellations are justified for “the convenience of the U.S. Government.”

Watch the above 28-minute episode of America Speaks as pollster and political analyst Dr. Frank Luntz asks Americans to share their opinions, questions and concerns regarding recent cuts to U.S. foreign aid, how those cuts might impact the projection of American soft power, and what they think the correct path forward should be from here.

‘Time for change’: Democrats debate their party’s future

Thu, 10 Apr 2025 07:30:00 -0500

After losing the White House and control of the Senate in the 2024 election — while facing record-low approval ratings — the Democratic Party is now debating its future leadership and strategy for handling President Donald Trump’s second term. While Sen. Cory Booker, D-NJ., recently gained attention with a record-breaking speech, other “rising stars” are vying to lead the Democratic Party.

Watch the 22-minute America Speaks video above, where pollster and political analyst Dr. Frank Luntz talks with Democrats about the future of the party and the viability of politicians such as Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer, former Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg, Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, D-NY., and Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer.

‘Broken’: Democrats reflect on state of their party

Thu, 03 Apr 2025 07:30:00 -0500

Last November, Democrats lost the popular vote for the U.S. presidency for the first time in 20 years against a divisive Republican candidate who had nearly been barred from politics for life over his alleged role in the Jan. 6, 2021 insurrection. That defeat shocked the Democratic Party and its supporters, and some analysts say that Democrats today remain in a state of traumatized paralysis even as President Trump rapidly pursues a highly controversial partisan agenda.

American liberals split even further in recent weeks, after some Senate Democrats backed a heavily Republican budget in order to avert a government shutdown, a move criticized by the more progressive wing of the party. The center-left defends that decision, however, arguing that a shutdown would have made the current American crisis even worse.

Watch the above 33-minute video of America Speaks as pollster and political analyst Dr. Frank Luntz asks American Democrats to share what they think is wrong with their party, how they can correct course for the future, and how to resist what they say is the dictatorship of Donald Trump.

‘Needs to be strategic’: Americans talk Trump tariffs

Thu, 27 Mar 2025 07:32:00 -0500

Tariffs have emerged as a key component of President Trump’s economic plan for the United States, with sweeping levies imposed upon Mexican, Canadian and Chinese goods shortly after the president began his second term, and with future tariffs expected on European goods. The returning president has long campaigned on tariffs, and sought to implement them to a lesser extent during his first term, as well.

But with American companies and workers at risk, the American stock market tumbling and traditional U.S. allies around the world reacting sharply, some Americans have criticized the president’s tariff policies.

Watch the above 25-minute episode of America Speaks as pollster and political analyst Dr. Frank Luntz asks Americans to share their opinions on Trump’s tariff policies, and whether they think those policies as a whole are good or bad for the future of the United States.

‘Good’ or ‘Bad’: Americans debate billionaires and taxes

Mon, 17 Mar 2025 07:38:00 -0500

For years, the American public policy debate around billionaires has revolved around questions of wealth inequality, with hardline critics arguing that billionaires should be taxed out of existence to raise living standards for all Americans and center-left leaders like former President Biden instead proposing a milder 25% “billionaire tax.” But that debate is even further divided between party lines.

Republicans have argued for lower taxes on the very wealthy and express less concern over economic inequality than Democrats do, while Democrats have argued for additional tax brackets for the wealthiest Americans and have consistently ranked economic inequality as one of their top concerns.

Recently, that debate has overlapped with concerns about the actions of one man, Elon Musk. Musk has played a definitive but controversial role in President Trump’s new administration after spending at least $277 million to help him defeat Kamala Harris in the U.S. 2024 presidential race, inadvertently recentering the debate on economic inequality and the role of money in U.S. politics around himself.

Musk’s support of other far-right parties in nations like Germany has also prompted foreign parliaments and heads of state to take action to secure their own political systems against the kind of influence that Musk now exerts in the United States.

Watch the above 22-minute episode of America Speaks as pollster and political analyst Dr. Frank Luntz asks a group of Americans to share their perceptions of U.S. billionaires, Elon Musk, tax policy, and the role of billionaires in U.S. politics and economics.

‘Division’: Americans react to Trump address to Congress

Thu, 13 Mar 2025 07:22:00 -0500

On March 4, 2025, President Donald Trump delivered a 100-minute address to Congress, drawing sharply divided reactions from Democrats and Republicans. He tackled a range of contentious issues, including immigration, economic policy and national defense.

Watch the above 37-minute episode of America Speaks as pollster and political analyst Dr. Frank Luntz asks a unique group of American voters — those who supported and opposed the president across two elections — to share their reactions to his address.

‘Overblown’: Americans debate the merits of DEI policies

Thu, 06 Mar 2025 07:15:00 -0600

Diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) has emerged as a controversial subject not only in U.S. politics but also in corporate and academic debates and across American culture as a whole. An overwhelming majority of Americanssay that one’s individual life circumstances largely determine that individual’s success, as opposed to simply hard work and merit, and yet Americans across the political spectrum share an aspiration for meritocracy, even if that goal seems far away. Whether certain DEI policies move us closer towards or further away from that goal is often at the heart of these debates.

Watch the above 24-minute episode of America Speaks where pollster and political analyst Dr. Frank Luntzinterviews a focus group of Americans for their opinions on the culture and politics of DEI and on whether they think DEI programs have a mostly positive or negative impact on the goal of meritocracy.

‘Biased’: What Americans think of ‘mainstream media’

Thu, 27 Feb 2025 07:00:00 -0600

There’s been an increase in new independent media voices over the past few decades, amplified especially in recent years by the rise of the internet and online media. Those trends, together with increasing financial difficulties for legacy newsrooms, have contributed to the relative decline of many mainstream news outlets and to the collapse of local investigative journalism.

Added to these difficulties are wide-ranging accusations of bias, accessibility and sensationalism that news media professionals have sometimes struggled to address. More and more Americans are now gaining their news from social media or from “news influencers,” but this is not only an American trend. A United Nations study published late last year warned that roughly two-thirds of “digital content creators” around the world do not verify their information before publishing it.

Watch the above 22-minute episode of America Speaks as pollster and political analyst Dr. Frank Luntz asks Americans to share their opinions on the news media industry and where they think they should go to for their news.

‘Getting rid of them’: Americans discuss Trump and immigration

Thu, 20 Feb 2025 07:39:00 -0600

Cracking down on immigration was one of Donald Trump’s top 2024 presidential campaign promises, and he has sought to ramp up U.S. deportations and border security efforts since his return to the White House last month. Some proponents of stricter immigration systems have applauded those efforts, while critics protest that they are cruel, inhumane, unnecessary and ultimately bad for the U.S. economy.

Watch this 29-minute episode of America Speaks as pollster and political analyst Dr. Frank Luntz asks a focus group of Americans to share their opinions on immigration issues and how they think President Trump has been doing on immigration in his first month back at the Oval Office.

‘Woke’: Why some Biden 2020 voters backed Trump in 2024

Thu, 13 Feb 2025 07:00:00 -0600

Donald Trump’s surprise win in the national popular vote count in the 2024 U.S. presidential race shocked even veteran political commentators. Part of that victory certainly owed itself to poor Democratic turnout — a turnout which resembled lower 2016 numbers instead of higher 2020 numbers and which traumatized the Democratic Party establishment with its first popular vote loss in two decades.

A portion of that surprise victory, however, also came from individuals who voted for Joe Biden in 2020, but then voted instead for Trump in 2024.

Watch the above 33-minute episode of America Speaks as pollster and political analyst Dr. Frank Luntz zooms in on a group of Americans who voted for Biden in 2020 but for Trump in 2024. Dr. Luntz asks them to share their personal reasons for why they moved over to Trump, what the Democrats could do to win them back, and how they think the returning president has been doing mere weeks into his second term.

‘A promise’: Cadets describe their journeys at West Point

Thu, 16 Jan 2025 07:00:00 -0600

Many of the future officers of the United States Armed Forces begin their journeys as cadets at West Point, America’s oldest military academy and one of the top military academies in the world today. The United States military is often commended for its skill in complex organization and team-building, and students and faculty say that this culture starts early at West Point.

Watch the above 25-minute episode of America Speaks as pollster and political analyst Dr. Frank Luntz asks a focus group of West Point students to describe their journeys as cadets to the American public and to share the lessons they’ve learned.

‘A disturbing pick’: Americans debate Musk, Trump’s cabinet picks

Thu, 09 Jan 2025 07:00:00 -0600

Controversy has surrounded Donald Trump’s questionable selections for top cabinet positions in his upcoming second term, and around his close partnership with Elon Musk, a multibillionaire who spent at least $277 million to help Trump win reelection. Recent arguments between Musk and MAGA-affiliated U.S. Congress members, however, have revealed deep schisms within the Republican Party in the run-up to Trump’s inauguration.

Watch the above 39-minute episode of American Speaks as pollster and political analyst Dr. Frank Luntz asks Americans to share their opinions of Trump, Musk, Trump’s cabinet selections and Trump’s relationship with Congress.

‘Dysfunctional’: Americans share criticisms of Congress

Thu, 02 Jan 2025 07:00:00 -0600

Only about 1 in 5 Americans say they support or have an optimistic view of Congress, while 3 out of 5 say they disapprove or have a pessimistic view. While these numbers change a little over time, there are consistently more Americans who disapprove than approve.

Watch the above 28-minute episode of America Speaks as pollster and political analyst Dr. Frank Luntz asks Americans to share their criticisms of Congress, why they say it’s failing to deliver, and what they’d like to see change in the years ahead.

‘Instill optimism’: Americans on how future generations can succeed

Thu, 26 Dec 2024 06:30:00 -0600

It can be difficult to predict the relative living standards of future generations in the modern world, where it seems like so much is changing so fast. Emerging technologies like AI, for instance, might empower and accelerate human productivity, but at the same time could also exacerbate wealth, income and power inequalities. And while many of today’s opportunities might not exist for the next generation, it’s also probable that new opportunities will emerge which we cannot yet imagine.

Watch the above 21-minute episode of America Speaks as pollster and political analyst Dr. Frank Luntz dives into the debate about changing U.S. standards of living over time, how those changes relate to evolving technologies, and what advic

‘System is rigged’: Black Americans on the American Dream

Tue, 17 Dec 2024 07:18:00 -0600

Over the past few decades, rising costs of living and housing in the United States have outpaced real wage gains, which have remained more or less stagnant despite consistent growth in worker productivity over time. All of this — together with rising inequality, the shrinking of the middle class, and the inability of unemployed or unhoused Americans to access the welfare that they need — has contributed to a growing sense of financial hardship for many Americans.

Watch the above 30-minute episode of America Speaks as pollster and political analyst Dr. Frank Luntz asks a panel of Black Americans to share their thoughts and feelings about whether or not the American dream can still survive in this economy. Dr. Luntz and the panel are later joined by John Hope Bryant, founder and CEO of Operation HOPE, who shares tools and guidance for achieving greater success in the American financial system.

‘Have a little compassion’: Americans talk high holiday prices, anxiety

Thu, 12 Dec 2024 07:17:52 -0600

American shoppers say they will spend a record high amount this year on holiday gifts and expenses, up 8% from the same time last year. While the holidays are meant to be a time of celebration, those with tight budgets can experience acute anxiety from the costs associated with travel, gifts, and taking time off work to be with friends and family.

Watch the above 25-minute episode of America Speaks as pollster and political analyst Dr. Frank Luntz asks Americans to share how they’re making ends meet this holiday season, what gifts they’re choosing when everything costs more, and why they believe the economy is worse this year than last.

‘Extremist’ or ‘phony’: Americans share who they voted for and why

Fri, 22 Nov 2024 13:13:46 -0600

The U.S. 2024 presidential election delivered a decisive victory for Donald Trump in the Electoral College and a narrow victory in the national popular vote. In the days after the election, social media was flooded with celebrations among those who voted for Donald Trump, but with alarm, anger and despair from those who voted for Kamala Harris.

Watch this 38-minute episode of America Speaks as pollster and political analyst Dr. Frank Luntz asks American voters to share and discuss who they voted for and why.

‘Extreme’ or ‘fake’: Swing voters weigh Trump or Harris

Tue, 05 Nov 2024 15:35:55 -0600

Election Day is tomorrow, and very few American voters have yet to decide which candidate they’ll cast their ballot for. Some of those remaining undecided, however, reside in a handful of key swing states, and their votes could ultimately decide who becomes the next president of the United States.

In this 34-minute episode of America Speaks, pollster and political analyst Dr. Frank Luntz asks undecided swing state voters for their final thoughts and opinions about who they’ll be voting for in the 2024 U.S. presidential race.

‘Strong’: Why some men say they’ll vote for Trump

Tue, 05 Nov 2024 13:30:57 -0600

With Election Day just one week from today, polls are predicting an extremely tight race in the Electoral College between Republican nominee Donald Trump and Democratic nominee Kamala Harris. Those projections have alarmed Democrats and pro-Harris Republicans, who continue to warn Americans about what they say are the existential dangers and national security risks posed by a second Trump presidency. And yet some Americans who previously voted for Joe Biden and/or Hillary Clinton say they’ll vote instead for Republican nominee Donald Trump in spite of these warnings. A disproportionate number of those voters are male.

In this 37-minute episode of America Speaks, pollster and political analyst Dr. Frank Luntz asks a focus group of pro-Trump male voters who previously voted for Biden and/or Clinton why they’ve chosen to switch their support over in favor of the MAGA candidate.

‘Easy answer is China’: National security experts discuss gravest concerns

Tue, 29 Oct 2024 07:00:00 -0500

With less than two weeks left until the general election, voters are focusing heavily on the state of America’s foreign policy. As dangerous conflicts and threats continue in regions like the Middle East, Ukraine, and China, many Americans are questioning whether the country is overextended in global affairs and foreign wars. Navigating these complex international challenges involves not only the American president and Congress but also the Department of State and the Pentagon.

In this 41-minute episode of America Speaks, pollster and political analyst Dr. Frank Luntz leads a focus group featuring national security experts formerly from the State Department and the Pentagon. These leaders offer their insights into the key global issues that Americans should be most concerned about right now.

‘Awful’: Americans discuss Congress, Supreme Court, capitalism

Fri, 25 Oct 2024 09:11:48 -0500

There’s a wide range of social, political and economic issues facing Americans today, and some of those issues involve underlying structures and systems like Congress, the Supreme Court and the idea of capitalism itself.

Capitalism has come under fire as income and wealth disparitybetween Americans continues to grow. The Supreme Court has come under criticism for allegedly demonstrating a sharply partisan political bias, even though it was designed to function outside of politics. Congress, meanwhile, continues to face familiar allegations of dysfunction, corruption and zero-sum partisanship.

Watch the above 27-minute episode of America Speaks as pollster and political analyst Dr. Frank Luntz asks Americans for their opinions on the state of our Congress, Supreme Court and modern U.S. capitalism.

‘Divided we fall’: Americans discuss concerns for democracy

Tue, 15 Oct 2024 08:00:00 -0500

Public opinion surveys show that 81% of American voters believe that U.S. democracy is under threat, and roughly 3 in 4 votersbelieve that democracy itself is at stake in the 2024 presidential election. While Democrats and Republicans sometimes provide different reasons, citizens on each side of the political divide report that they are deeply concerned for the future of the United States.

In this 24-minute episode of America Speaks, pollster and political analyst Dr. Frank Luntz asks a bipartisan focus group of U.S. voters to discuss their respective concerns for the future of democracy and America.

‘That was great’: Undecided voters react to Walz-Vance debate

Thu, 10 Oct 2024 08:00:00 -0500

The vice-presidential debate between Gov. Tim Walz, D-Minn., and Sen. JD Vance, R-Ohio, was seen as a win by both sides. In contrast to the Harris-Trump debate, public opinion on who won the Walz-Vance debate was split evenly. With the November election projected to be a tight race in the Electoral College, it remains to be seen whether this will impact the outcome of the election, but both Vance and Walz succeeded in improved their image with the American public.

In this 30-minute episode of America Speaks, pollster and political analyst Dr. Frank Luntz interviews a group of undecided voters before and after the vice-presidential debate and asks what impact, if any, that debate might have on how these voters ultimately cast their ballots.

‘A bipartisan problem’: Americans debate immigration policy

Mon, 07 Oct 2024 13:21:27 -0500

Immigration remains one of the top issues for American voterstoday, and the global refugee crisis as a whole ranks as one of the modern world’s top concerns. In America, as in other countries, the public debate ranges from how to accommodate new immigrants to how many immigrants should be allowed in the first place, and how those immigrants should or shouldn’t become naturalized as citizens of their new host nation.

Complicating those debates is the inability of U.S. immigration courts to process immigration and asylum claims in anything close to a timely manner, with some claims waiting a full decadebefore being processed.

In this 48-minute video of America Speaks, pollster and political analyst Dr. Frank Luntz asks U.S. voters how they think about immigration and what they’d like to see their country do differently in the years ahead.

‘I’ve learned nothing’: Young undecided voters on debate, election

Tue, 24 Sep 2024 12:46:11 -0500

Only a small percentage of Americans who said they plan to vote in the November elections have not yet made up their minds up about who they’ll be voting for. However, at least in the Electoral College, the upcoming election is projected to be a tight race, and a small number of undecided voters in just a handful of states could make a difference.

In this 40-minute episode of America Speaks, pollster and political analyst Dr. Frank Luntz interviews a group of young undecided American voters to understand what they care about, how they perceive the presidential debate, and what their concerns are as November approaches.

‘I don’t trust Kamala’: Why some Black men are voting Trump

Fri, 20 Sep 2024 07:11:40 -0500

An overwhelming majority of Black Americans say they plan to vote for Kamala Harris as the next U.S. president. Around one-quarter of Black men under 50, however, say they plan to support Donald Trump instead.

In this 47-minute episode of America Speaks, pollster and political analyst Dr. Frank Luntz asks a group of Black U.S. voters under 40 who are planning to vote for Donald Trump why they’re making the choice to support him over Kamala Harris.

‘If not me, then who?’ West Point cadets say why they serve

Mon, 09 Sep 2024 12:25:23 -0500

The United States Armed Forces today is collectively considered the most powerful national military in the world. While part of that supremacy stems from technology, logistics, diplomacy, and other key variables, a great deal of it also stems from the values, discipline and integrity of the men and women who serve. And for many of these young Americans, their journey of national service begins at West Point.

In this 18-minute episode of America Speaks, pollster and political analyst Dr. Frank Luntz interviews a focus group of West Point cadets and asks them to share their stories about why they enlisted, what they’ve learned, and what they hope to accomplish for themselves, each other and their country.

‘The lesser of two evils’: Undecided Gen Z on 2024 election

Thu, 05 Sep 2024 09:25:12 -0500

Most U.S. voters already have an idea of how they’ll be casting their ballots in November. Among Gen Z Americans specifically, roughly half say they support Harris-Walz, while one-third support Trump-Vance. Yet some younger Americans remain uncommitted, and there’s a wide range of issues that might tip the balance for how they vote.

In this 42-minute episode of America Speaks, pollster and political analyst Dr. Frank Luntz interviews a group of young, undecided U.S. voters to discuss their concerns about the candidates in the 2024 election.

‘Administration doesn’t care’: Jewish students on campus antisemitism

Tue, 03 Sep 2024 12:24:01 -0500

Following Israel’s military response to Hamas’ Oct. 7 attack in Gaza, U.S. college students at universities nationwide started organizing protests, boycotts, sit-ins, and other forms of non-violent protest against continued U.S. military support to Israel. Whether or not those protesters ever intended it, many Jewish students started reporting that they felt pressured to change their behavior or how they spoke about certain issues, some out of fear for their safety. And while some of these protestors are Jewish themselves, that has not stopped a documented trend of rising antisemitism both off and on campus.

In this 41-minute episode of America Speaks, pollster and political analyst Dr. Frank Luntz asks Jewish college students in the U.S. to share their experiences on campus and what they’ve seen from the protests. They describe a culture of antisemitism, with an administration that is reluctant to provide support.

‘The prices on everything’: What keeps Americans up at night

Tue, 20 Aug 2024 08:56:27 -0500

With less than three months until the general election, Americans will soon choose the nation’s direction on key issues for the next four years. Concerns range from immigration and political polarization to crime, inflation, foreign policy, AI and job security, with the list continuing to grow. These issues and more might all play a significant role in shaping voter decisions this November.

Watch the above 11-minute episode of America Speaks as pollster and political analyst Dr. Frank Luntz engages in an uncensored, raw conversation about the day-to-day anxieties of average Americans — and explores potential solutions to address these pressing concerns.

‘Mean or extreme’: Americans discuss Harris and Trump

Mon, 12 Aug 2024 07:57:43 -0500

President Biden’s decision to withdraw from the 2024 presidential race and endorse Vice President Kamala Harris has thrown a wrench into pollsters’ predictions for the election outcome. Harris now enjoys a lead over Trump in the polls both nationally and within key swing states. Trump and Harris agreed to debate on Sept. 3, which will give Americans a first-person view of how the campaigns have changed in the wake of Biden’s announcement.

Watch the above 41-minute episode of America Speaks as pollster and political analyst Dr. Frank Luntz is interviewed by a group of American voters about the new choice they have and where he thinks the two major presidential campaigns are headed.

‘Young and thoughtful’: Why American voters are switching to Harris

Tue, 06 Aug 2024 06:40:03 -0500

In the wake of growing public concern over his declining health, President Biden officially announced he would not seek reelection in November, and endorsed Kamala Harris as the next Democratic nominee. That announcement changed the dynamics of a presidential election between the two oldest-ever candidates that few Americans had been excited for.

Kamala Harris, at 59, is roughly two decades younger than Trump and Biden. After the announcement, her campaign broke fundraising records, and her candidacy has energized voters across the political spectrum.

Watch this 36-minute episode of America Speaks as pollster and political analyst Dr. Frank Luntz interviews a group of Americans who say they would not have voted for Biden but that they will vote for Kamala Harris. He seeks to understand what they see in Harris that they did not see in Biden.

‘Both completely corrupt’: What Americans think of Biden, Trump

Wed, 24 Jul 2024 13:06:42 -0500

Prior to his official withdrawal from the 2024 U.S. presidential race, President Joe Biden was expected to win the Democratic nomination in August and face former President Donald Trump in November’s election. Kamala Harris is now the presumed nominee, although there is time for another surprise before the convention officially nominates a candidate in August.

Watch the 36-minute video above, where pollster and political analyst Dr. Frank Luntz asks Americans — before Biden dropped out of the race — about their thoughts on Biden and Trump and their concerns regarding each candidate.

‘I don’t know’: Swing voters debate who best to replace Biden

Tue, 23 Jul 2024 06:00:00 -0500

On Sunday, July 21, President Joe Biden announced that he would be stepping down as the Democratic nominee for president in the 2024 election. Biden quickly announced that he would be endorsing Kamala Harris for that nomination and encouraged his supporters to support her as well.

At the Republican National Convention (RNC), Donald Trump formally accepted the Republican nomination just days after surviving an assassination attempt. Trump, who has been accused of encouraging and celebrating political violence in the past, said he “tore up” his original fiery partisan speech, and delivered a new speech calling on all Americans to come together and lower the political temperature.

Watch the above 28-minute video as pollster and political analyst Dr. Frank Luntz asks American swing voters — prior to his stepping down — whether they think Biden should stay or go. Dr. Luntz also asks the panel who should take Biden’s place and what they thought of Donald Trump’s acceptance speech at the RNC.

This episode was filmed on July 19, two days before President Biden’s public announcement that he would not seek reelection.

‘Mad as hell’: Americans vent anger, frustration over politics

Thu, 18 Jul 2024 07:00:00 -0500

Public anger, fear and frustration with American politics reached another climax after the Supreme Court’s highly controversial July 1 decision in Trump v. United States. Those emotions continued spiraling until the attempted assassination of Donald Trump just two weeks later.

After the shooting, political leaders in both parties called for restraint and joined President Biden in asking all Americans to “lower the temperature” of political arguments and debate. However, American public trust in government has remained critically low for over a decade, suggesting deeper systemic problems, and it isn’t likely to improve overnight even if politicians can successfully defuse these simmering tensions.

In this 30-minute episode of America Speaks, pollster and political analyst Dr. Frank Luntz invites Americans to discuss their anger, frustration, hopes, and fears about the country’s future and their ideas about how to fix it.

‘On death’s door’: Undecided voters react to first debate

Wed, 10 Jul 2024 07:00:00 -0500

The first live debate of 2024 between current President Joe Biden and former President Donald Trump sparked a flurry of questions and concerns. Trump, for his part, refused to commit to accepting election results or to rule out staging future coup attempts like Jan. 6, and again referred to those who stormed the U.S. Capitol as “patriots.” Biden, for his part, appeared suddenly far more agedthan he had only one hundred days before for his State of the Union Address, and seemed cognitively “out of it.”

Watch this 33-minute episode of America Speaks as pollster and political analyst Dr. Frank Luntz asks a panel of undecided U.S. voters for their reactions to the debate.

‘Two bad choices’: Undecided voters before Biden-Trump debate

Mon, 08 Jul 2024 07:26:52 -0500

American voters face a stark binary choice this November between two very different presidential candidates with opposing visions for America. Most voters already have a firm idea of who they plan to vote for and why, and yet some remain undecided. Undecided voters, in addition to going either way on the ballot, might choose to vote third-party or even to abstain from voting altogether.

In this 15-minute episode of America Speaks, pollster and political analyst Dr. Frank Luntz interviews a group of undecided voters prior to the first Biden-Trump debate of 2024 and asks them to share why they’ve not yet made up their minds and what key issues might persuade them.

‘Money doesn’t go as far’: Americans discuss financial hardships

Mon, 10 Jun 2024 07:39:23 -0500

As the presidential election approaches, many Americans feel cautious about the economy despite reassuring data. Nearly two-thirds of middle-class Americans report experiencing economic hardship and do not expect their situation to improve. Inflation and unaffordable housing are two of the top concerns respondents cite.

In this 40-minute episode of America Speaks, Dr. Frank Luntz asks a panel of 15 Americans from 14 different states to talk about their financial struggles, including making ends meet and paying bills on time. Dr. Luntz focuses on topics such as setting priorities, making tough decisions, learning to accept sacrifices, and surviving on incomes that don’t keep up pace with inflation.

‘I am shocked’: Americans react to the Trump guilty verdict

Tue, 04 Jun 2024 12:48:35 -0500

Former President Donald Trump has been found guilty on all counts of falsifying business records in his hush money trial, making him the first former U.S. president to be convicted of a crime. Trump is likely to appeal the verdict. He will be sentenced on July 11, only four days before the Republican National Convention.

In this 35-minute episode of America Speaks, Dr. Frank Luntz asks a panel of Americans about the verdict just minutes after it was announced. The panelists discuss their surprise (or lack thereof) at the verdict, its potential impact on the upcoming election, the possibility of violence in its aftermath, and whether the case should have been brought forth at all.

‘We have lost empathy’: American business owners debate politics

Thu, 30 May 2024 12:04:06 -0500

As the 2024 presidential election approaches, the small business community could play an important role in determining who wins the White House. Although 96% of these entrepreneurs are likely to vote, many of them remain undecided about whom they’ll vote for. Independent business owners, regardless of party affiliation, are concerned that they will be left behind by current business policies.

In this 36-minute episode of America Speaks, Dr. Frank Luntz asks a panel of American business owners to share their feelings about domestic politics, the state of American democracy, and how businesses can thrive in this political climate.

‘The worst it’s ever been’: Young Americans on democracy

Thu, 09 May 2024 11:21:33 -0500

Democracy is a flawed and fragile form of government, famously described by Winston Churchill as “the worst form of Government except for all those other forms that have been tried.” Churchill’s comment spoke to a world where fascism and democracy were at war. In America today, concerns regarding the erosion of democracy at home and abroad — and about the resurgence of fascism — are on the rise again.

In this 23-minute episode of America Speaks, Dr. Frank Luntz asks a panel of younger Americans what they think about democracy, what threatens it, how to protect it, why it matters, and more. Luntz then asks each participant what they would say to Congress on this subject if they had only a few seconds.

Gen Z debates capitalism vs. socialism, meritocracy vs. equality

Thu, 02 May 2024 14:45:44 -0500

Capitalism and socialism offer two different economic models, each with their own unique pros and cons. And while it is rare to find any modern economy that is either entirely capitalist or entirely socialist, citizens frequently use these terms to represent the general direction in which they believe the economy and society should progress. Similarly, while it is rare to find any example of a purely meritocratic or a purely equal society, the public debate on meritocracy versus equality helps us clarify which laws or policies should be pursued in the years ahead.

In this 34-minute episode of America Speaks, Dr. Frank Luntz asks a panel of Gen Z Americans, ages 18-24, whether they prefer more socialism or more capitalism, and presses them to defend their answer against those who gave the opposite response. Following that conversation, Dr. Luntz asks them to choose between meritocracy or equality, and to defend their positions on that answer as well.

‘We want to find common ground’: Gen Z’s stubborn optimism

Fri, 12 Apr 2024 11:39:25 -0500

Younger Americans came of age amidst significant change, turmoil and partisanship. Many observers have wondered how this might impact their civic engagement and political opinions as adults. Approximately 41 million Gen Z Americans will be eligible to vote in the 2024 elections.

In this unique 31-minute episode of America Speaks, pollster and political analyst Dr. Frank Luntz interviews a class of high schoolers at a private school in Indiana. He asks for their opinions on everything from tribalism and immigration, to constitutional laws and norms. Underneath wide-ranging pessimism, Luntz uncovers a stubborn and hardened optimism, and a shared commitment to bridging the country’s political divide.

‘Take the job seriously’: Why Americans are fed up with Congress

Fri, 05 Apr 2024 06:51:04 -0500

In March, U.S. public approval of Congress stood at only 15%. Americans have a wide range of concerns across the political spectrum, but what they have in common is a frustration with what they perceive as widespread dysfunction inside of the nation’s legislature.

‘If we can shrink it, it will stop growing’: Americans talk debt, deficit

Thu, 28 Mar 2024 10:18:02 -0500

As of March 28, 2024, the official figure for the United States’ national debt comes up just shy of $34.6 trillion. While this debt empowers the government to fund important programs and agencies, critics warn that it becomes more and more of a liability the longer it goes unaddressed and unresolved.

In this unique 36-minute episode of America Speaks, pollster and political analyst Dr. Frank Luntz invites David Walker, former comptroller general of the United States, to join American panelists for a living room discussion on the national debt. Walker outlines some of the key trends, numbers and figures that Americans should be aware of, and explores the political obstacles preventing us from reaching a solution.

‘I don’t think they care’: Undecided voters explain their reasons

Thu, 28 Mar 2024 08:31:00 -0500

While most voters already have an idea of how they’ll be voting — or not voting — in November’s presidential election, a small minority of Americans remain undecided. How they ultimately choose to cast their ballots might influence the results of tight races in key swing states.

In this 30-minute episode of America Speaks, pollster and political analyst Dr. Frank Luntz asks a focus group of undecided voters what their reservations are regarding Democratic and Republican candidates and the U.S. political process as a whole. The participants gave a wide range of reasons, but when asked if they felt “alienated by the political process,” almost every one of them raised their hand.

‘He was gaslighting us’: Undecided voters on State of the Union

Thu, 21 Mar 2024 08:30:00 -0500

President Biden identified many key concerns as he delivered his annual State of the Union address. He confronted foreign wars in Ukraine and Gaza and domestic issues relevant to rural America, sparking a range of reactions from prospective voters.

In this 30-minute episode of America Speaks, pollster and political analyst Dr. Frank Luntz interviews a panel of undecided swing-state Americans to measure their feedback and reactions to the speech. While opinion on the speech itself was split, participants did not have reassuring answers when asked to summarize their own impression of the state of the country in just one word. One participant aptly summarized what seemed to be a shared concern: “We have two unions.”

‘The dirtiest campaign’: Low expectations for 2024 election ads

Fri, 08 Mar 2024 13:13:04 -0600

U.S. political campaigns have become notoriously toxic, a trend broadly reflective of the overall toxicity of modern American politics itself. Political campaign ads and political messaging have become perhaps the most consistent public measure of that toxicity. So when it comes to the upcoming election, what do Americans expect to see in their political advertisements and campaign messaging?

In this 30-minute episode of America Speaks, pollster and political analyst Dr. Frank Luntz asks a panel of Americans to review political campaign ads for the upcoming 2024 election and to rate how they feel second by second as those ads progress. Democrats and Republicans were measured separately, and their approval ratings were often opposite from one another, implying that a good or inspiring message for one side was often perceived as negative by the opposing side. But the unaffiliated line, measured in yellow, suggests more nuance and moderation in the center of the political spectrum.

‘A dose of empathy’: Americans’ guide to better disagreement

Thu, 07 Mar 2024 08:30:00 -0600

We find ourselves in an era of high friction between Democrats and Republicans on numerous issues. As primary season turns into election season, heated arguments and disagreements might escalate. Most of us accept that we won’t agree on everything, but how can Americans learn to disagree better?

In this 39-minute episode of America Speaks, pollster and political analyst Dr. Frank Luntz engages with a diverse group of Americans who all aspire to “disagree better.” But what does that mean, and how can Americans live up to that challenge? Dr. Luntz explores those questions and discovers plenty of common ground to build on.

‘A country without purpose’: Americans share fears for their nation

Thu, 29 Feb 2024 08:30:00 -0600

From the numerous wars raging abroad to our civil divisions here at home, it can sometimes feel like America and the world are on fire. In addressing these crises, it is essential to prioritize and identify the ones that concern Americans the most.

In this 28-minute episode of America Speaks, pollster and political analyst Dr. Frank Luntz asks Americans to share their deepest concerns for their country and the world. From a lack of empathy and civility to the financial difficulties of modern life, the panelists explore a range of different answers. Almost all of them, however, say their biggest concerns have more to do with American culture and behavior than economics.

‘The American dream is real’: What makes the US exceptional?

Tue, 27 Feb 2024 08:46:00 -0600

The United States does a lot of things well and it’s rated fifth in the best countries overall. Yet for those who hear mostly negative news, it’s easy to believe that things could not get any worse. As we yearn for an idealized yesteryear, we might take the blessings of today for granted, and forget the many things Americans agree on.

In this 26-minute episode of America Speaks, pollster and political analyst Dr. Frank Luntz examines the positive values of American identity. Luntz asks a panel of Americans what they love about their country, what they could agree on, and what unique assets they think make today’s America a truly great nation.

‘We’ve lost our way’: Americans rejecting the two-party system

Thu, 22 Feb 2024 08:41:00 -0600

The Republican and Democratic Parties have had a two-party lock on American politics since the U.S. Civil War, with comparatively few successful third-party campaigns at the federal level over the past 150 years. While some Americans appreciate the two-party system, others argue for a more open multi-party democracy and want to make it easier for independent and third-party candidates to run. Some Americans, out of protest or for other reasons, choose not to participate in the current two-party system at all.

In this 33-minute episode of America Speaks, pollster and political analyst Dr. Frank Luntz interviews a sample of Americans who are either abstaining from voting or planning to throw their weight behind a third-party or independent candidate.

Luntz dives deep into the reasons why they made this choice and uncovers a near-unanimous unifying truth: Voting third-party is more about rejecting the current state of the two-party system, rejecting Trump and Biden personally, and rejecting what U.S. politics has become, than it is about embracing any particular third-party campaign, candidate or ideology.

‘He’s just old’: Why Biden ’20 voters won’t vote for him in ’24

Tue, 20 Feb 2024 12:40:10 -0600

Recent polls give former President Donald Trump a lead over President Joe Biden in a 2024 general election matchup. With rising wages and GDP, record-low unemployment, and an opponent facing 91 felony criminal charges, it might be difficult for observers to make sense of Biden’s declining popularity against Trump in an anticipated 2024 rematch.

In this 34-minute episode of America Speaks, political analyst and pollster Dr. Frank Luntz interviews a group of individuals who voted for Biden in 2020 but plan on not voting for him in 2024. Luntz asks them a range of questions to understand how Biden lost their support since they cast their votes in 2020.

‘CRT is a lie’: American parents debate public education issues

Thu, 21 Dec 2023 11:54:14 -0600

America is home to some of the best universities in the world, and U.S. college graduates regularly compete for elite positions worldwide. Yet the K-12 American public education system lags far behind this performance, contributing to divisions within American society and jeopardizing the academic potential of America’s younger generations.

In this 30-minute episode of America Speaks, political analyst and pollster Dr. Frank Luntz asks American parents for their observations on K-12 public school funding, curriculum, student support, overcrowding, and active shooter events.

‘You need to speak English’: Americans debate immigration crisis

Mon, 18 Dec 2023 13:16:58 -0600

Immigration continues to be a topic of debate among everyday American citizens and within the halls of Congress. As migrants and refugees pour into the United States over the U.S.-Mexico border, U.S. immigration courts struggle to process their cases. U.S. Department of Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas recently hinted that mass amnesty might be required to help resolve the immigration dilemma—something which has not been done in roughly four decades.

In this 34-minute episode of America Speaks, political analyst and pollster Dr. Frank Luntz asks Americans what they think of immigrants and the immigration crisis, and whether President Biden or former President Donald Trump is better positioned to resolve the challenges associated with immigration.

Firefighters share what they wish civilians, politicians knew

Fri, 15 Dec 2023 13:06:12 -0600

America’s firefighters battle hazardous conditions and long work days to keep Americans safe every day. Yet in crisis after crisis, through raging wildfires and terrorist attacks, these heroes continue to show up, fully committed to some of the most dangerous work in the country.

In this 37-minute episode of America Speaks, firefighters discuss their most memorable experiences, what they wish civilians and politicians knew about their work, and many stories of tragedy and triumph that they’re willing to share. Their responses take us from the trauma of 9/11 to the shock of George Floyd’s murder and the COVID-19 pandemic.

‘It’s their land’: Americans debate Gaza, Israel and Hamas

Thu, 30 Nov 2023 12:16:23 -0600

Since Oct. 7, the Israel-Hamas war has claimed at least 16,000 lives, displaced over 1,500,000 Palestinians, and has polarized and divided citizens in the United States and around the globe. The level of violence in Gaza has few global precedents since the end of World War II. Yet even as conflict mediators from the U.S., Egypt and Qatar work together to try to extend the temporary ceasefire, both Hamas and Israeli officials insist that the war must go on.

In this 54-minute episode of America Speaks, political analyst and pollster Dr. Frank Luntz asks Americans who they blame for the conflict, who they think is winning in the war for public opinion, whether or not they favor a cease-fire, and what they think of various pro-Palestinian or pro-Israeli arguments.

America’s Gen Z on democracy, politics and the future

Wed, 22 Nov 2023 12:55:34 -0600

Born between 1997 and 2012, Gen Z represents the youngest cohort of eligible voters. Shaped by the digital age, climate concerns, economic shifts, and the impact of COVID-19, the generation’s identity has now been further influenced by the specter of global conflicts. With 41 million Gen Z members eligible to cast votes–and many participating in a presidential election for the first time–the question arises: How do they envision the future of their democracy?

In this 36-minute episode of America Speaks, political analyst and pollster Dr. Frank Luntz asks students at George Washington University what issues concern them the most, what they think of today’s political leaders and what gives them hope for our future. Their answers reveal how much progress we have yet to make in our own country and for all humans who believe in democracy around the world.

Americans reveal views on China, Taiwan and foreign policy in Asia

Thu, 16 Nov 2023 10:09:32 -0600

A growing majority of Americans identify China as the single greatest foreign threat to the United States. This shift has coincided with recurrent Chinese threats against U.S. allies like Taiwan and the Philippines but also with the reality of an increasingly war-weary world, with major conflicts now raging concurrently in Ukraine, Gaza, Sudan, Myanmar, and elsewhere.

In this 28-minute episode of America Speaks, political analyst and pollster Dr. Frank Luntz presses Americans for their opinions on China, Taiwan, and U.S. foreign policy in Asia. While partisan divides emerged on some questions, American citizens displayed broad bipartisan agreement on others, especially in their shared support for Taiwan.

‘Inflation, inflation, inflation’: Americans debate economy’s health

Thu, 09 Nov 2023 11:11:12 -0600

As the U.S. economy continues to surpass predictions on everything from “blowout” GDP growth to record-low unemployment, liberals celebrate “Bidenomics” as a proven recipe for nationwide economic growth and success. Yet the costs of housing, living, and interest rates are also on the rise, prompting criticism and pessimism from both conservatives and the general public. So when it comes to the economy, are things getting better or worse?

In this 26-minute episode of America Speaks, Dr. Frank Luntz asks Americans how they feel about our economy, what sources they trust for economic news, and what the role of public policy is in responding to the broader economic needs of the American people.

Trump, Clinton, Gingrich highlight most memorable debate moments

Fri, 03 Nov 2023 07:51:21 -0500

Public debates on the campaign trail have long been a central component of American political culture. While the questions asked and the issues addressed have changed over time, the importance of the public debate itself has not.

In this 30-minute episode of America Speaks, political analyst and pollster Dr. Frank Luntz reviews some of the most memorable moments in recent American political campaign debates, from the funniest to the cringiest. Some of these clips will remind viewers of American greatness. Others remind us of the hypocrisy, bitterness or silliness which some have come to expect.

Reviewing the top 10 political speeches in recent US history

Thu, 26 Oct 2023 12:26:36 -0500

Politicians worldwide and throughout history have invested immeasurable time and resources into perfecting their narrative pitch to a public audience. Today, new technologies enable us to track which speeches perform better to which audiences, and we can track that data down to each second and every word.

In this 20-minute episode of America Speaks, political analyst and pollster Dr. Frank Luntz uses Instant Response technology to review ten of the most popular political speeches in recent U.S. history, revealing in detail the words and ideas that have inspired Americans across generations. These speeches received overwhelmingly positive reviews from Americans across the entire political spectrum.

Anger in America

Thu, 12 Oct 2023 11:26:12 -0500

Increasing polarization has consistently ranked as a top political concern for Americans in recent years. Americans are divided by culture, religion, policy, ethics, information sources, and at times, even by core values.

In this unique, 24-minute episode of America Speaks, political analyst and pollster Dr. Frank Luntz dives fearlessly into these myriad divisions with ordinary Americans from across the country. The resulting shouting match is sometimes difficult to listen to but ultimately reveals some of the key fears and misperceptions that divide us as a country.

Content warning: This video contains graphic descriptions of sexual abuse and rape.

Trust in Media

Thu, 12 Oct 2023 11:01:51 -0500

A well-informed public, sustained by a free and independent press, has long been considered one of the most vital pillars of a healthy democracy in the modern world. And yet today, in the United States, this pillar is in danger of collapsing, as fewer and fewer Americans express positive trust in “the media” as a whole.

In this 30-minute episode of America Speaks, political analyst and pollster Dr. Frank Luntz asks Americans how they think news media companies performed in recent coverage of key topics, including the Jan. 6 Capitol riots, former President Donald Trump and President Joe Biden. Their replies reveal Americans’ lack of trust in the news media industry, and more profoundly, the underlying distrust and suspicion they have of each other.

Americans debate government shutdowns, spending priorities

Wed, 27 Sep 2023 11:50:34 -0500

Congress is once again approaching a possible federal government shutdown. Like several before, this shutdown originates from unresolved disagreements between Democrats and Republicans on federal spending and budget priorities. Pundits have speculated about the political future of House Speaker Kevin McCarthy (R-CA) in the wake of this uncertainty.

In this 29-minute episode of America Speaks, political analyst and pollster Dr. Frank Luntz asks Americans for their opinions on a possible government shutdown and what programs they would choose to cut if they had to be the ones to resolve these spending disputes.

African youth leaders on Africa, US and the world

Thu, 07 Sep 2023 09:56:06 -0500

African youth represent a seismic demographic shift not only for their continent, but for the entire world. Some of the world’s largest economies are expected to emerge in Africa before the end of this century, and today’s young generation will be the driving force of that change.

In this 48-minute episode of America Speaks, political analyst and pollster Dr. Frank Luntz asks a room full of young students at the African Leadership University a number of deep questions, including what Africa and pan-Africanism means to them, what issues the continent has to confront, how they perceive their relationship to the outside world, and what their beliefs and perceptions are of the United States, China, corruption and foreign aid.

Americans discuss US support for Ukraine

Thu, 31 Aug 2023 12:31:54 -0500

Since Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine in February 2022, U.S. political and military forces have directed tremendous resources towards Ukraine’s defense. But GOP presidential candidate Vivek Ramaswamy has argued that the U.S. should seek an immediate peace agreement using current lines of control, a proposal that rewards Russia with permanent territorial gains.

In this 35-minute episode of America Speaks, political analyst and pollster Dr. Frank Luntz interviews a group of 15 Iowans at political “ground zero” to assess their opinions on Ukraine, Putin, Zelenskyy, Ramaswamy’s proposal and the outcome of the war.

Is Trump securing the GOP nomination a done deal?

Tue, 29 Aug 2023 13:59:35 -0500

In a recent poll, some ⁠63% of Republicans⁠ say they want former President Donald Trump to run for president again. But if there was a candidate able to rise from the ⁠GOP pack⁠ as a viable challenger to President Joe Biden, ⁠would Republicans take a second look⁠ at their options?

In this 39-minute episode of ⁠America Speaks⁠, a group of undecided GOP voters — many weary of Trump’s negativity — sits down with political analyst and pollster ⁠Dr. Frank Luntz⁠ to weigh the pros and cons of each of the alternative GOP candidates.

What some religious Iowans really think of Donald Trump

Thu, 24 Aug 2023 14:13:48 -0500

They believe schools are failing our children. They say you can love gay people but disapprove of their lifestyle. They’re convinced the 2020 election was stolen. And they don’t trust our current government. Who are they?

They’re a group of born-again and evangelical Christians from Iowa and, in the latest hour-long episode of America Speaks, they sit down with political analyst and pollster Dr. Frank Luntz to discuss what matters to them most.

You’ll hear their views on public schools, the culture wars, and the upcoming election, but what they have to say about Donald Trump as our next president may surprise you most.

About half of voters would consider voting for a third-party candidate

Thu, 27 Jul 2023 14:03:34 -0500

A Quinnipiac University poll shows that nearly half of American voters (47%) would consider voting for a third-party candidate in next year’s presidential election. It’s another indication that many Americans are displeased with former President Trump and President Biden as candidates for president in 2024.

In this 24-minute episode of America Speaks, a group of voters dissatisfied with both Trump and Biden sat down with political analyst and pollster Dr. Frank Luntz to discuss why they don’t like the two likely nominees, what they’re looking for in a candidate, and whether they think a third-party candidate could win.

You may be surprised to hear who they think could be viable alternatives.

Affirmative action is more than a black and white issue

Tue, 18 Jul 2023 12:58:47 -0500

In a landmark decision, the Supreme Court has ruled that race-conscious admissions to colleges and universities violate the Constitution. The decision overturns a decades-long practice that allowed colleges to use affirmative action to achieve diverse student bodies.

This latest installment of America Speaks, an hourlong discussion moderated by political analyst and pollster Dr. Frank Luntz, takes a look at where Americans stand on the issue today. How important is diversity to the overall objectives of higher learning? Are there effective alternatives to affirmative action?

Can the United States become ‘united’ again?

Wed, 05 Jul 2023 06:52:43 -0500

Americans come together for the Fourth of July this week to celebrate our nation’s independence and unity. Yet polls show the majority of us believe America is more polarized than ever.

The latest installment of America Speaks, hosted by political analyst and pollster Dr. Frank Luntz, takes a closer look at what average Americans think of our country today. Have we lost our ability to find any common ground on the big issues that divide us, such as climate change, immigration, and equality? Can we argue that the United States is the greatest country on earth anymore? What caused us to lose trust in our government, the news media, our institutions — and each other?

Are America’s schools failing its children?

Wed, 05 Jul 2023 06:50:59 -0500

Education has become one of America’s most polarizing issues. Battle lines have been drawn over what kids are learning at schools, leading some states to ban controversial topics such as critical race theory from classrooms and even remove books from school libraries that some deem inappropriate.

Another worry is whether children are being taught the skills they need to succeed in life. In the latest 35-minute episode of America Speaks, hosted by political analyst and pollster Dr. Frank Luntz, parents from across America weigh in on their kids’ education and their concerns about the state of education.

Is parenting harder than ever in today’s media-obsessed society?

Thu, 22 Jun 2023 15:55:40 -0500

America’s parents are concerned that their kids are experiencing too much at too young an age in today’s media-obsessed society. After hearing from moms in the previous episode of America Speaks, political analyst and pollster Dr. Frank Luntz wanted to let dads weigh in, as well. The conversation reveals that many parents say raising children these days is harder than ever due to a myriad of factors.

In the series’ latest 39-minute episode, parents from different cities and backgrounds discuss their biggest fears about raising children, including bullying at school and online, rampant sexualization across popular culture and threats to traditional family values.

Moms fear dangers artificial intelligence and social media pose to kids

Wed, 07 Jun 2023 06:37:40 -0500

Parents across America are worried about the danger technology poses to their kids. They worry that social media sites like TikTok are damaging to children’s mental health and fear the arrival of artificial intelligence will only make things worse.

Do Democrats view Kamala Harris as an asset or liability in 2024?

Wed, 07 Jun 2023 06:37:34 -0500

Does Vice President Kamala Harris have what it takes to occupy the Oval Office? That’s a question Democrats are asking now, as the Biden-Harris ticket seeks reelection in 2024. Is Harris ready to step in if President Biden, already the oldest sitting president at 80, is unable to fulfill the duties of the office?

Do Republicans think DeSantis can beat Trump in the GOP primary?

Wed, 07 Jun 2023 06:37:25 -0500

The race for the Republican nomination is the focus of the latest episode of Straight Arrow News’ America Speaks video series, hosted by veteran political analyst and pollster Dr. Frank Luntz. In this 23-minute video, U.S. voters share their thoughts on the strengths and weaknesses of DeSantis, Haley and Pence in comparison to former President Trump.

Do Americans blame Biden or Congress for the debt ceiling crisis?

Wed, 07 Jun 2023 06:37:13 -0500

The clock is ticking for the White House and House Republicans to cut a deal on increasing the debt ceiling to avoid a catastrophic default. The looming deadline has many people concerned and frustrated. A recent poll indicates two-thirds of U.S. adults fear the economic fallout if the government defaults on its debts. (Recorded prior to deal struck between Biden/McCarthy and passed by Congress)

How do Democrats view Biden, his age and reelection prospects?

Wed, 07 Jun 2023 06:37:05 -0500

President Biden’s age may be the greatest obstacle he faces on his road to reelection in 2024. Members of Biden’s own party worry the 80-year-old may not be up to the task of a second term in the White House. What do Democratic voters think about an octogenarian president running again?

Republican voters debate former President Trump’s 2024 prospects

Wed, 07 Jun 2023 06:36:48 -0500

President Joe Biden’s announcement that he will seek re-election in 2024 means that a rematch between him and Donald Trump is a distinct possibility. Most polls show the former president with a sizable lead for the GOP nomination over his presumed main challenger, Florida Governor Ron DeSantis. How do voters feel about Trump’s chances at regaining the White House?