Cliff’s Take: Social Distancing No Longer the Name of the Game

America is reemerging.  We are all very hesitant about the external world. Most probably, the pandemic will leave an indelible mark on us.  For how long will we wear masks and social distance?  Will we shy away from large crowds?  Our world has changed; we have changed.

Below, I detail the most relevant polling data from the week.

1. America keeps poking its head out. Again, America is reemerging. Look at the chart below. We might be wary but are finding some solace in socializing with our family and friends. Ultimately, humans are social creatures and we need to interact—COVID-19 or no. As I told Axios, people can’t resist the temptation to meet up with friends and family, though many of us are still following some social distancing measures, like wearing masks and staying six feet apart. 

    

2. Economic pressures only increase, but with a partisan tinge. Increasingly Americans want to reopen the economy. The economic angst is real and the corresponding pressure is there to get people back to work even if the virus isn’t fully contained yet. Again, Republicans are especially bullish; Democrats less so. 

    

3. Only partisans trust Trump in our COVID-19 world.  Trump is losing the battle of trust.  The data speaks for itself. Trust among Democrats and Independents in the federal government is tanking. That said, the President and his administration still maintain goodwill with the majority of Republicans.  Will this impact election-day?  Good chance it will. 

    

4. Tale of Two Americas: the non-partisan variety. According to our most recent ABC/Ipsos poll, partisan differences are not the only stark contrasts in America. Look at the gap between white and non-white Americans. Tragically, the virus is striking communities of color the hardest. There are multiple Americas—blue, red; rich, poor; white, non-white.  
5. Trump and Biden dead even on a plan for COVID-19 recovery. Voters want a president that has a robust plan for recovery post-pandemic, according to our Reuters/Ipsos polling. Americans rank Trump and Biden dead even on this this priority. Is this shaping up to be a close election? Sure looks like it. 

    

Take a look at my most recent POTUS Politics interview for a review of the above. Bringing some joy along with it, spring is here. I am glad to be running on my preferred route on the Billy Goat trail in Potomac, Maryland again. As always, be safe and be sane.