Education

Partisan divide seen in Oklahomans’ views of cultural unrest

September 17, 2020

Brandon Dutcher

In a recent survey, Oklahomans were asked about “the cultural unrest, including protests and riots, occurring in America right now.” When it comes to their views about the current upheaval, the role the education system has played in it, and whether complicit universities should have their funding cut, Oklahomans are split along party lines.

Is the Current Cultural Unrest a Good Thing?

“Some view the current cultural unrest as a positive development, a necessary step to right the wrongs of America’s past. Others view the cultural unrest negatively, seeing an improper hostility towards America’s history and foundational principles. Do you view the current cultural unrest positively or negatively?”

Among voters overall, 45% view the unrest positively, 49% view it negatively, and 6% are unsure.

Did the Education System Play a Role?

“Do you agree or disagree that the current cultural unrest is rooted in what our students have learned in the public education system?”

Among voters overall, 47% agree, 39% disagree, and 14% are unsure.

Defund Higher Ed?

“Do you agree or disagree that colleges and universities which actively fuel the cultural unrest should have their taxpayer subsidies reduced?”

Among voters overall, 49% agree, 39% disagree, and 13% are unsure.

The statewide survey of active likely voters was conducted August 10–13, 2020. The survey, with a sample size of 630 and a margin of error of +/- 3.9 percent, was commissioned by OCPA and conducted by Cor Strategies (script here, results here, methodology here).