Ronald Reagan ran against Washington in 1980, saying the federal government was “part of the problem, not the solution.” He was responding to the public mood not long after Jimmy Carter’s “malaise” speech. The hapless one-term president from Georgia’s handling of everything from hyperinflation, to gasoline lines and foreign policy frustrations (e.g. the Iranian hostage crisis), soured many toward the federal government. Before the mid-1970s, however, Americans were more positive toward Washington, particularly when compared to state or local government. According to surveys from the American National Election Study (ANES) at the University of Michigan, it was not until 1976 that many citizens began to view the federal government less favorably compared to the states. And while confidence in Washington temporarily bounced back following the 9/11 terrorist attacks, since that time faith in the Feds has been waning again. This new Pew Study demonstrates a sharp decline in favorability toward the federal government, while views of state and local government have remained relatively flat. The Pew survey shows only 37% of Americans now have a favorable view of the federal government, compared to 63% for local and 59% for the states. These numbers mirror the decline in right track/wrong track polls and the Bush job approval numbers. They also include a partisan dimension. While not generally associated with pro-Washington ideology, Republicans give the highest favorability ratings for the federal government — a sign that they are supporting their team at the helm in DC right now. Could this new “malaise” when it comes to Washington impact the campaign? You bet. Barack Obama won’t advocate devolving money and power outside of Washington. But appealing to voters’ frustrations with the federal government is something John McCain should be able to pull off. Americans look like they are more “anti-Washington” than “anti-government.” Maybe it’s time to dust off that New Federalism speech?
