The two opinion polls below were conducted at the same time, by reputable pollsters, about the same proposed tax increase. What differences between the polls might explain the different results?

1. Q: As you may know, the tax cuts passed into law when George W. Bush was president are set to expire this year. Unless a new bill is passed, federal income tax rates will rise to the level they were at when those cuts were enacted. Which of the following statements comes closest to your view?

Those tax cuts should continue for all Americans. 31% Those tax cuts should continue for families that make less than $250,000 a year, but taxes should rise to the previous level for families who make more than that amount. 51% Taxes should rise to the previous level for all Americans regardless of how much money they make. 18%

2. Q: As you may know, the tax cuts passed during George W. Bush’s administration lowered taxes by reducing the maximum income tax rate for all Americans. These tax cuts are set to expire at the end of2010, meaning tax rates would go back to what they were before the Bush tax cuts. Congress is currently considering whether to let these tax cuts expire or extend them. Which of the following comes closest to your own view on what action Congress should take?

Extend the tax cuts for all Americans. 49%Let the tax cuts expire only for people who earn more than$200,000 a year. 31%Let the tax cuts expire for all Americans. 15%