Vox survey finds overwhelming support for greater police presence among all demographics

A survey conducted by Data for Progress and VOX earlier this month has revealed that Americans want more policing in their neighbourhoods, not less.

The survey was administered to 1209 likely voters between April 2nd and 5th, and asked participants about a variety of issues surrounding public safety in America. The results were separated by the political leaning, racial identity, and age of those surveyed.

Respondents were first asked whether they think the amount of violent crime has increased in the country as a whole. Roughly 70% said they thought it was increasing; the numbers were slightly higher for those who identified as White, Republican, or over 45, and slightly lower for those who said they were Black or African American, Hispanic or Latino/a, or under 45.

When asked whether police can be trusted, almost half of Democrats said yes, compared to 78% of Republicans; the disparity was nearly identical between under and over 45 year olds. Around 63% of those who identified as Black or African American said one should exercise extra levels of caution when dealing with police, compared to 48% of Hispanic or Latino/a, and just 24% of White respondents.

All demographics responded similarly when asked whether "regular police patrols in your neighbourhood would make [them] feel less safe or more safe." Political party, age, and race seemed to have very little effect on one's desire for increased police presence.

Among greater calls for "defunding the police", this data shows that Americans still see the presence of law enforcement as essential to public safety.