VOTER REGISRATION UNDER party labels has been on the decline for years, but new figures show political parties in Massachusetts withering at a much greater rate than previously known, with nearly two-thirds of all voters now registered without a party designation. On a practical level, there is little benefit to registering under a party banner in
New MPG Poll: Worcester-area residents back fare-free buses
70% want to see the program extended for a 5th year; riders say they will ride less if fares return
As the Worcester Regional Transit Authority (WRTA) weighs the future of fare-free bus service, a new poll of the region finds that seven-in-ten residents support continuing the 4-year-old policy. A majority (54%) strongly support continuing free fares. And nearly half of current riders surveyed say they would ride the bus less (26%) or stop riding altogether (19%)
MassINC Matters: The January/February Round-Up
The latest from our research, journalism, and polling
Welcome to our first “MassINC Matters” newsletter of 2024. As a valued member of our community, you’ll receive an email update from us every other month providing you with an insider’s perspective into the latest work happening across our organization. While we wrap up the final days of the month, here’s a round-up of
MPG Releases 8th Wave of Shah Foundation Survey of Boston Public School Parents
This is the 8th of multiple waves of surveys of parents of Boston Public School students going back to 2021. This one-of-a-kind longitudinal study is funded by the Shah Foundation and conducted by The MassINC Polling Group. Each wave’s questionnaire includes a series of repeat questions as well as new and timely content. The series
New Poll: BPS parents voice concerns about children’s emotional well-being, physical safety
68% say they are at least somewhat concerned with their children’s physical safety
A new poll of parents of Boston Public Schools students finds parents remain concerned about their children’s physical safety and emotional well-being while at school. In all, 68% say they are at least somewhat concerned with their children’s physical safety (see chart). Parents of color express greater concern about physical safety than do white parents.
Poll: More than three-quarters of Massachusetts residents support boosting funding for regional bus service
79% of Massachusetts residents support increasing funding for the state’s 15 Regional Transit Authorities (RTAs)
As lawmakers on Beacon Hill dig in on this year’s state budget, 79% of Massachusetts residents support increasing funding for the state’s 15 Regional Transit Authorities (RTAs), which provide local bus and paratransit service beyond the reaches of MBTA bus and subway service. Nearly as many (74%) support using some of the new voter-approved surtax
Poll: Mass. voters say an even split of millionaire’s tax would be a fair share
Two-thirds think surtax proceeds should go into a trust fund.
February 10, 2023 When Massachusetts voters approved a new surtax on income over $1 million last year, it was clear what that money was supposed to go to: transportation and education. But how much should go to each? A new poll from The MassINC Polling Group (topline, crosstabs) finds that just under half of voters
Statewide Poll of Parents Highlights Challenges Massachusetts Faces in Addressing Students’ COVID Recovery Needs
New poll sheds light on parents’ thoughts on the necessary supports and resources to help students recover academically
Seven out of 10 (73%) Massachusetts parents believe their child’s school has enough resources to help students in need, but fewer (56%) parents who see their children as behind grade level say the same. As Massachusetts decision-makers decide how best to tackle students’ unfinished learning amid the COVID-19 pandemic, a new poll released today by
Poll: 78% of voters view transportation system in only ‘fair or poor’ condition
New MassINC Polling Group Poll finds 59% of voters support future MBTA shutdowns to expedite improvements
October 20, 2022 Voters have a long transportation to-do list for the next governor of Massachusetts. Improving roads, bridges, and public transit is the top priority, but voters also support major expansions like bringing rail service to Western Massachusetts and reimagining the Commuter Rail network. To pay for it all, voters continue to support Question
Poll: Massachusetts small businesses still recovering from COVID
New MassINC Polling Group Poll finds Massachusetts small businesses owned by entrepreneurs of color see expansion opportunities if capital and space challenges can be overcome
September 22, 2022 A new statewide survey commissioned by Coalition for an Equitable Economy (the Coalition) in partnership with The MassINC Polling Group (MPG) and Mass Growth Capital Corporation (MGCC) finds Massachusetts small businesses facing a long road to recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic, with about half (53%) reporting revenues remain lower than pre-pandemic. Business