Poll Finds US is Worried About Crime, Disapproves of Biden's Handling of It

A Washington Post-ABC News poll released Friday found that Americans' concern with crime is at a four-year high amid a nationwide rise in violent crime. Fifty-nine percent of Americans believe crime is an “extremely” or “very” serious problem. Forty-eight percent disapprove of President Joe Biden's handling of crime so far, compared to 38% who approve and 14% who offered no opinion. Fifty-five percent of Americans think more funding for police would help reduce crime, and seventy-five percent say boosting funding to build economic opportunities would accomplish the same goal.  The survey was conducted with 907 respondents over the phone last week, and also examined public opinion about racial discrimination in policing.

Outlets across the spectrum reported on the poll. Coverage from right-rated sources typically highlighted the majority of Americans' disapproval of Biden's crime strategy. Conversely, reports from left- and center-rated sources usually focused on the majority of Americans who see crime as a serious issue, and how they think it could be solved.