January 11, 2005

Abstract: (Angus Reid - CPOD Global Scan) - Some adults in the United States believe 2004 was a positive year, according to a poll by Rasmussen Reports. 47 per cent of respondents rate the past 12 months as good.

(Angus Reid - CPOD Global Scan) - Some adults in the United States believe 2004 was a positive year, according to a poll by Rasmussen Reports. 47 per cent of respondents rate the past 12 months as good.

U.S. voters participated in presidential and congressional elections on Nov. 2. Republican George W. Bush earned a second term after securing 286 votes in the Electoral College from 31 states. The Republican Party retained majorities in both the House of Representatives and the Senate.

In December, the U.S. economy added 157,000 new jobs, bringing the 2004 total to 2.2 million. The country's unemployment rate is currently at 5.4 per cent. According to treasury secretary John Snow, "The past year was a very good one for our economy, and for workers seeking employment." 59 per cent of respondents say their expectations for 2005 are good.

Polling Data

How would you rate 2004 as a year?

Good	47%
Fair	33%
Poor	18%

What are your expectations for 2005?

Good	59%
Fair	24%
Poor	15%

Source: Rasmussen Reports
Methodology: Telephone interviews to 1,000 American adults, conducted on Dec. 13 and Dec. 14, 2004. Margin of error is 3 per cent.