The Nation: The Unconfident

Indeed, the suspicions seem to be increasing. The University of Michigan’s Center for Political Studies reports an opinion sampling that shows a startling drop in the number of adult Americans who express a high degree of confidence in the Federal Government. In 1964 62% of those polled expressed high confidence. In 1970 the figure was 37%.

Dr. Warren Miller, director of the center, reported that while the national angst over Viet Nam is responsible for much of the decline, the loss of confidence is greatest not among discernible war hawks or doves, but among moderates. Of that middle group, only 26% now have great confidence in Washington, compared with 74% just six years ago.