What have polls shown about public opinion on the Hawaiian recognition bill?
Two credible surveys, conducted in Hawai’i in 2003 and 2005 by reputable polling organizations using established statistical methods, both showed support for formal U.S. recognition of Native Hawaiians above 80 percent. Last year, a group that is staunchly apposed to Hawaiian recognition released and automated telephone survey purporting to show widespread opposition to the bill. However, the survey was not constructed with established scientific methods; instead, it was consistent with what is known as a “push poll” – which is designed more to influence public opinion than to measure it. There was a “push poll” conducted by right-wing, neo-conservative groups such as the Grassroot Institute that showed less support. “Push polls” are not considered credible surveys because they ask questions that are designed to elicit a certain response. They are not true surveys. They are used as political tools to manipulate the public and misrepresent what may be the true sentiment. 17. Why are man
