The stark finding comes as families across the state grapple with unaffordable healthcare, housing costs and basic necessities like food.
ROCK HILL, S.C. โ A majority of South Carolina residents view the current economy as poor, with half reporting they are worse off financially than a year ago, according to a new Winthrop Poll released by the university’s Center for Public Opinion & Policy Research.
The survey found widespread financial strain among respondents, with 67% saying grocery costs are difficult or very difficult to afford. Nearly 60% struggle with healthcare costs including prescription medications, as well as housing expenses like rent and mortgages.
Discretionary spending appears particularly challenging for many residents. About 61% said dining out is unaffordable, while 72% reported that a week-long vacation is beyond their financial reach.
The poll also explored attitudes on citizenship and immigration. An overwhelming 97% of respondents, regardless of political party, agreed that people born in the U.S. to American-born parents should be considered U.S. citizens. Support dropped to 84% for those born in the U.S. to parents who immigrated legally, and decreased further when considering children of parents who immigrated illegally.
On diversity, 46% of respondents believe having people of many races, ethnic groups and nationalities makes the United States a better place.
Regarding Confederate monuments, opinions were divided: 31% said the monuments should be left alone, while 34% favored adding plaques or markers to provide historical context or interpretation.
The survey found strong support for arts education, with nearly three-quarters of respondents saying arts and culture are important. Many emphasized the value of teaching dance, media arts, music, theater, visual arts and literature in elementary, middle and high schools.
The online survey was conducted in April and May with 1,434 weighted respondents and has a margin of error of plus or minus 2.59% at the 95% confidence level.
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