IssuesPA/Pew Poll and Election '06: Regional Differences and Political Values -- Focus on Southwestern PA

(October 2006) The IssuesPA/Pew poll provides detailed information about differences in political attitudes across the regions of the state.

Southwestern PA region includes Allegheny, Armstrong, Beaver, Butler, Fayette, Greene, Indiana, Lawrence, Washington, and Westmoreland counties.

Overview: The Democrats have a big edge in party ID in Southwestern PA, but the the local populace leans to the right ideologically, creating opportunities for GOP candidates to do well here. Gun control has less support in the region, and there is more support for a muscular foreign policy. The older, more culturally conservative population finds the concept of “English only” more attractive. With President Bush’s ratings down, however, it will be more difficult this year for GOP candidates to get the crossover votes they need from Democrats to carry the region.

Distinguishing Political Values: More likely to think protecting gun owners’ rights should take priority over gun control. More likely see military strength, not diplomacy, as the best path to peace. The use of second languages in public schools and official communications tends to be rejected, in favor of making English the official language.

Key Beliefs - Percent of Southwestern PA/Percent Statewide

Gun owners’ rights are more important than gun control - 57/47

Military strength is the best way to ensure peace - 40/33

English should be the official language of the U.S. - 67/59

Religion and Church Attendance: Religious affiliation in the Southwestern PA is similar to statewide figures – 37% non-Evangelical Protestant, 34% Catholic, and 20% Evangelical Protestant. Church attendance rates are above average (38% weekly or more often).

Party ID/Ideology: The Democrats have a sizable advantage in party ID in the region (45% Democrat/25% Republican) but there are fewer liberal Democrats here (7%) than in any other region. In contrast, Southwestern PA Republicans tend to more ideological. The region includes 17% conservative Republicans but only 8% moderate to liberal Republicans.

Opinion of George W. Bush: 39% approve, 52% disapprove

Candidate Preferences: Despite being from the region, Rick Santorum and Lynn Swann both trail their Democratic opponents. Casey’s more conservative views on social issues like abortion might explain his big lead in the Senate race here (58%-27%). Ed Rendell has not been a popular figure recently in Southwestern PA but he still has a marginal lead (52%-45%) over former Steeler great Lynn Swann.