Oklahoma Poll: Voters Concerned With Economy

Concern over the economy is the top issue for voters in the latest Oklahoma Poll.  And, it's almost the highest it's been in the 15 years the poll has been measuring issues.

The News On 6 and the Tulsa World asked 750 Oklahomans to list the most pressing problems facing the state.  Of those questioned, 23% say it's the economy.  Another 18% rank energy rates and prices as the most pressing issue.  And, 13% mention education.       

Only in 2002 did the economy rank as high in voters' minds.

When asked more specifically, 81% say the national economy is getting worse.  Only 4% say it's getting better.  And, 13% say it's about the same.

People are not as pessimistic about the state's economy, but they're still not very positive.  Of those queried, 51% say it's getting worse.  Another 13% say it's getting better.  And, 34% say it's about the same.

The numbers were similar when we asked about peoples' personal economic situation.  Many say the state's slowing economy has them adjusting their budgets.

Of those polled, 71% say they have adjusted their thermostat to save money.  While 57% say their grocery buying habits have changed.  Another 17% say they are more concerned about their job than a year ago.  And, 59% say they are concerned about their retirement savings.