Issues that people see as clearly impacting their lives tend to be deeply rooted. Americans do have deep-seated attitudes on many issues. From Public Opinion to Public Policy. Although American government policy does not always reflect popular desires, on a number of issues government policies are reasonably close to the general direction of public opinion, although it often takes time for opinions to be translated into governmental policy. X. Public Opinion and Approaching Democracy.
Public opinion is the keystone of a democracy.
Legitimate governments must have public consent to political leadership and public policy. Although not all Americans are politically active and informed, they are sufficiently active and informed to keep their leaders in touch and to live together in a diverse and complex culture. 2.1.01 Presidential Approval Ratings. These ratings date back almost to the beginning of public opinion polling, and continue through the years to the present. Final approval and disapproval rating.