Tom Golisano Surprises 82 Nonprofits with $360 Million in Unrestricted Funding
Sep 17, 2024
Tom Golisano, entrepreneur, philanthropist, and civic leader, today announced an unprecedented and historic series of major awards totaling $360 million to 82 non-profit organizations in Rochester, Buffalo, and Syracuse, New York.
In a move that has stunned the nonprofit community across Upstate New York, Tom Golisano, the renowned entrepreneur and philanthropist, announced a monumental gift of $360 million to 82 nonprofit organizations in Rochester, Buffalo, and Syracuse. This major financial commitment nearly doubles Golisano’s lifetime giving, which now stands at a staggering $775 million.
The impact of these multiyear awards, which range from $250,000 to $20 million, will be felt across a broad spectrum of causes, including healthcare, education, disability services, and animal welfare. The awards, which are unrestricted, give organizations the freedom to allocate funds as they see fit to best serve their communities. “Running a nonprofit isn’t easy,” Golisano noted. “I hope this unexpected support helps them build on their successes and broaden their impact.”
Golisano, who founded Paychex, has long been a champion for the Upstate New York region, where his business roots are deeply planted. His philanthropic contributions span decades, and many of the organizations receiving awards today have benefited from his generosity in the past. From hospitals and schools to veterans’ services and public broadcasting, this latest round of funding reflects the wide-ranging causes Golisano holds dear.
Among the biggest recipients is the Golisano Foundation itself, which will receive a $52 million boost. This infusion will increase the Foundation’s giving capacity, allowing it to award more grants to both new and current organizations. “The work being done by these nonprofits is impressive, and I’m grateful to be in a position to support them,” Golisano said.
The sheer scale of Golisano’s generosity is remarkable. His $360 million gift follows a $50 million commitment made just three months ago to the University of Rochester Medical Center to establish the Golisano Intellectual and Development Disabilities Institute. This was his largest single donation to date.
The ripple effects of these awards will undoubtedly be felt for years to come. Nonprofits like the Child Advocacy Center of Greater Rochester, Hillside Family of Agencies, and Niagara Falls Memorial Medical Center are among the beneficiaries, and they will be able to direct the funds to where they are needed most.
Organizations dedicated to supporting individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) are also among the big winners, with 26 IDD groups receiving a total of $104 million. This includes Best Buddies, AutismUp, and the Arc of Erie County, all of which have long been supported by the Golisano Foundation.
Golisano’s passion for animal welfare is also reflected in his giving. A total of 23 animal rescue and shelter organizations, including Lollypop Farm and the Chemung County Humane Society, will receive a combined $24 million to continue their lifesaving work.
Golisano summed up his philosophy on giving by quoting one of his favorite sayings: “The only wealth you keep is that which you give away.” He credits his success at Paychex and the hard work of its employees for making his philanthropy possible. “I’m beyond grateful that I have the ability to do so,” he added.
With this latest round of donations, Golisano has set a new standard for philanthropy in Upstate New York and beyond. His generosity will leave a lasting mark, empowering nonprofits to continue their crucial work while expanding their reach and impact.
Here’s a breakdown of the organizations receiving funding from Tom Golisano’s $360 million commitment and the amounts they are getting:
Community – 8 Organizations – $25 Million
The Child Advocacy Center of Greater Rochester – $5 Million Foodlink – $5 Million Freedom Guide Dogs for the Blind – $2 Million Hillside Family of Agencies – $5 Million Lifespan – $2 Million Medical Motor Service of Rochester & Monroe County – $2 Million Veterans Outreach Center – $2 Million WXXI Public Broadcasting – $2 Million
Education – 16 Organizations – $86 Million
Alfred State College – $5 Million Allendale Columbia School – $5 Million Aquinas Institute of Rochester – $5 Million Bishop Kearney High School – $5 Million Canisius University – $5 Million The Charles Finney School – $3 Million Daemen University – $5 Million The Harley School – $5 Million Hope Hall School – $3 Million McQuaid Jesuit High School – $5 Million Nazareth University – $5 Million Niagara University – $10 Million Our Lady of Mercy School for Young Women – $5 Million Roberts Wesleyan University – $5 Million Rochester Institute of Technology – $10 Million St. John Fisher University – $5 Million
Health – 9 Organizations – $69 Million
American Cancer Society, Golisano Hope Lodge – $2 Million American Red Cross – Greater Rochester Chapter – $5 Million Daystar Kids – $5 Million Mercy Flight Central – $5 Million Niagara Falls Memorial Medical Center – $10 Million Oishei Children’s Hospital of Buffalo – $10 Million Rochester Regional Health – $20 Million Ronald McDonald House Charities of Rochester, NY – $2 Million Upstate Golisano Children’s Hospital – $10 Million
Ability Partners (CP Rochester, Rochester Rehab, Happiness House) – $5 Million Arc Allegany-Steuben – $5 Million Arc Chemung-Schuyler – $5 Million Arc Erie County New York – $5 Million Arc GLOW (Genesee/Livingston/Orleans/Wyoming) – $5 Million Arc of Monroe County – $5 Million Arc of Ontario County – $5 Million Arc of Wayne County – $5 Million AutismUp – $3 Million Best Buddies, WNY – $1 Million Catholic Charities Family and Community Services – $5 Million CDS Life Transitions – $5 Million Cobblestone Arts Center – $2 Million Empowering People’s Independence (EPI) – $5 Million EquiCenter – $2 Million Golisano Autism Center – $3 Million Heritage Christian Services – $5 Million Holy Childhood – $5 Million Lifetime Assistance – $5 Million Mary Cariola Center – (Future Announcement) Mozaic (Arc of Seneca, Cayuga & Yates Counties) – $5 Million People, Inc. – $5 Million Special Olympics New York – $1 Million Springbrook – $5 Million Starbridge Services – $2 Million Summit Center – $5 Million
Animal Welfare – 23 Organizations – $24 Million
Better Together Pet Rescue Center – $250,000 Beverly Animal Shelter – $1 Million Chautauqua County Humane Society – $1.5 Million Chemung County Humane Society & SPCA – $1 Million Finger Lakes SPCA – $1.5 Million Headed for Furever – $250,000 Hornell Area Humane Society – $1.5 Million Humane Society of Schuyler County – $1.5 Million Humane Society of Wayne County – $1.5 Million Humane Society of Yates County – $1.5 Million Joyful Rescue – $250,000 Keller’s Kats Rescue – $250,000 Lollypop Farm, Humane Society of Greater Rochester – $2 Million Mr. Grey’s Strays – $250,000 Operation Freedom Ride – $250,000 Pet Adoption Network – $250,000 Pet Pride of New York – $1.5 Million Rochester Emergency Veterinary Services – $1.5 Million Rochester HOPE for Pets – $250,000 SPCA in Cattaraugus County – $1.5 Million SPCA Serving Allegany County – $1.5 Million SPCA Serving Erie County – $1.5 Million Wyoming County SPCA – $1.5 Million
American Red Cross Teamsters Score Big Wins in Groundbreaking New Contract
Sep 17, 2024
International Brotherhood Of Teamsters. (PRNewsFoto/International Brotherhood of Teamsters)
In a historic victory for nearly 1,900 American Red Cross workers, Teamsters across the country have ratified a national agreement that will significantly improve their wages, benefits, and working conditions. The new contract, which will be in effect from October 1, 2024, through September 30, 2028, received an overwhelming 86 percent approval from the union members.
The agreement is being hailed as a game-changer for Red Cross workers, offering some of the most meaningful improvements seen in recent years. Key highlights include substantial wage increases, enhanced employer-paid health care contributions, and time-and-a-half pay for holidays. Workers will also see a significant boost to their retirement plans, with a six percent 401(k) match and a faster vesting period of just two years.
Sean M. O’Brien, Teamsters General President, expressed pride in the landmark deal, emphasizing the vital role these workers play in maintaining the nation’s blood supply. “American Red Cross Teamsters have just ratified their strongest collective bargaining agreement yet,” O’Brien said. “These workers are a crucial part of the blood supply chain and deserve every cent and benefit they fought for. Over the next four years, we’ll make sure this contract is fully enforced, and they get every ounce of what was promised.”
In addition to the national agreement, the Teamsters represent Red Cross workers at 34 local unions, many of which are covered by supplemental agreements that address location-specific pay and work conditions. So far, 24 out of 28 of these local agreements have also been ratified electronically, signaling widespread satisfaction with the gains.
Jason Lopes, Teamsters Health Care Director, highlighted how the deal sets a new benchmark not only for Red Cross employees but for workers across the health care industry. “This agreement raises the bar in a big way for some of the most essential workers in the industry. We’re confident that this will have a life-changing impact on Red Cross Teamsters and will serve as a strong foundation as we continue organizing more Red Cross facilities nationwide,” Lopes said.
The International Brotherhood of Teamsters, founded in 1903, represents 1.3 million workers across the U.S., Canada, and Puerto Rico. With this new deal, they have once again demonstrated their ability to secure powerful victories for their members. The national contract at the American Red Cross is expected to not only improve the lives of workers but also serve as an organizing tool for the union as they continue to grow their presence at Red Cross facilities across the country.
This is a major win for Red Cross workers, proving that when they stand together, they can achieve lasting change. The new contract, with its wage boosts and retirement perks, is a big step forward for those who work every day to keep the nation’s blood supply flowing.
Woody Williams’ Legacy Lives On: Gold Star Families Memorial to Expand with Flagpoles and Benches
Sep 17, 2024
In a heartfelt tribute to one of America’s greatest heroes, a new phase of the Gold Star Families Memorial in Huntington, West Virginia, will be dedicated on October 2, 2024. This date marks what would have been the 101st birthday of Hershel “Woody” Williams, the last surviving WWII Medal of Honor recipient. His final wish—to honor the families of fallen service members—is being realized as the memorial expands to include military flagpoles and granite benches, continuing his legacy of remembrance.
A special ceremony, organized by the Woody Williams Foundation and Southside Preservation and Enhancement Alliance (SPEA), will feature the dedication of the new additions. The memorial was first unveiled on October 2, 2023, drawing a large crowd, including family members and supporters of Gold Star families, as well as special guests like U.S. Senator Joe Manchin and Congresswoman Carol Miller. Last year’s ceremony also saw performances from country music legend Lee Greenwood and Broadway’s Mark McVey.
The new phase of the memorial will be dedicated during a noon ceremony at the site, with Brent Casey, Williams’ grandson and co-owner of Valor Coins and Pins, emphasizing the importance of remembering the sacrifices of Gold Star families. “This was Woody’s wish—never to let their sacrifice be forgotten,” Casey said. “We’re proud to make it a reality, just as he would have wanted.”
Williams, a native of the Huntington area, spent much of his life after his military service working to ensure that Gold Star families across the country were honored and remembered. His efforts led to the creation of nearly 150 Gold Star Memorial monuments across the U.S., with dozens more still in progress. This particular memorial holds special significance, not only for being in Williams’ hometown but also for marking the final completion of a project he was passionate about.
Brent and his brother, Bryan Casey, who co-founded Valor Coins and Pins and the Woody Williams Foundation, have carried on their grandfather’s mission. Together, they’ve transformed Woody’s vision into a nationwide movement. Their challenge coin business, Valor Coins, supports not only the foundation but also other military-related causes, further cementing their dedication to honoring service members and their families.
This event is a profound reminder of the importance of remembering the families who bear the cost of freedom. As the final pieces of the Huntington memorial fall into place, Woody Williams’ legacy of gratitude and respect for Gold Star families will endure, continuing to inspire future generations.
The dedication ceremony on October 2 is expected to draw a significant crowd once again, honoring not just Woody Williams’ incredible life, but the ongoing sacrifices made by so many families in the name of service. For those in attendance, it promises to be an emotional moment, as flagpoles are raised and granite benches provide a place for quiet reflection—exactly what Woody Williams would have wanted.
Racial Wealth Gap Costs US Trillions: What Leaders Are Demanding Now
Sep 13, 2024
As the nation braces for a pivotal election, experts and advocates at the 53rd Annual Legislative Conference of the Congressional Black Caucus Foundation (CBCF) turned up the heat on federal policies that have deepened the wealth divide between Black and white Americans. They called for sweeping changes to build economic equality. With Black America’s financial well-being at the forefront, the conversation was as urgent as ever.
The centerpiece of the event, the National Town Hall, dug into the systemic hurdles that have kept Black Americans from building wealth for decades. The numbers don’t lie—Black households are miles behind their white counterparts in income, home ownership, and access to capital. It’s a gap that has drained a staggering $16 trillion from the U.S. economy over the past 20 years.
Maryland Governor Wes Moore opened the floor with hard-hitting facts, highlighting how policies like the Homestead Act, unfair housing appraisals, and the inequitable use of the GI Bill have been rigged to benefit some Americans while sidelining others. His message was clear: racism isn’t just immoral—it’s downright costly. “Racism is expensive. Bigotry is expensive,” Moore stated, pushing for an overhaul of economic systems that continue to harm Black Americans.
His remarks set the stage for what became a major rallying cry: if policymakers don’t address these long-standing inequities, the entire nation stands to suffer—not just those left behind.
It’s Time for a Change
While statistics speak volumes, so did the voices at the event. Rep. Steven Horsford, Chairman of the Congressional Black Caucus, took aim at the economic powerhouse Black culture creates. “Black people drive the economy because we drive culture,” Horsford remarked, highlighting how Black Americans have propelled industries from entertainment to sports, only to see the profits funnel into other hands. His solution? Shift from being merely consumers to taking ownership in the industries Black Americans fuel.
The Town Hall wasn’t just about diagnosing the problem; it also laid out a path forward. Rep. Troy Carter pointed to expanding access to capital for Black entrepreneurs, workforce development, and affordable housing. Rep. Lucy McBath echoed the sentiment, calling on Black Americans to flex their collective intellectual, organizational, and political power to make change happen. “Victory is never guaranteed, but we have the resources to win this fight,” McBath declared.
A Call to Action
What made this year’s Town Hall different was the range of voices coming together. Beyond political leaders, the event featured community activists like LaTosha Brown, co-founder of the Black Voters Matter Fund, and John Hope Bryant, CEO of Operation HOPE. Their message? It’s going to take a village to make real economic change for Black Americans, and everyone—businesses, policymakers, and voters—has a role to play.
The panel discussions also didn’t shy away from tough conversations. Leaders called out discriminatory hiring practices, lending policies, and tax systems that continue to hold Black Americans back. One takeaway was loud and clear: it’s time for Black Americans to have a seat at the decision-making table.
As the conference wrapped up, one thing was certain—there’s no quick fix for the racial wealth gap. But with voices like these, the push for economic justice isn’t slowing down anytime soon. Leaders left the stage with a clear message: the status quo won’t cut it. It’s time for change, and it starts now.
US and China Must Find a New Path Forward, Experts Say
Sep 13, 2024
In the midst of growing global tension, experts at the recent Vision China event in New York stressed the urgent need for the United States and China to mend and redefine their relationship. The message? Both nations must step up to the plate, not just for their own benefit, but for the peace and prosperity of the entire world.
The gathering, held at the Asia Society, was hosted by China Daily and Bank of China. More than 200 attendees showed up, eager to discuss the past, present, and future of this complex relationship. Speakers included prominent Chinese officials and American citizens with decades of personal experience in fostering US-China bonds.
A Look Back to Move Forward
Chinese Ambassador to the US, Xie Feng, took center stage, delivering a speech packed with historical insight. He pointed out that over the past five decades, the re-establishment of ties between the US and China was a major turning point in global diplomacy. It wasn’t just about two superpowers finding common ground—it shaped world peace and economic growth.
“History provides us the road map,” Xie noted, adding that the next 50 years could either deepen these connections or, if handled poorly, lead to increased global instability.
Qu Yingpu, publisher and editor-in-chief of China Daily, echoed those thoughts. He highlighted how China’s only national English-language newspaper has been chronicling the ups and downs of US-China relations. In his view, the future of this partnership relies heavily on strengthening grassroots connections and fostering understanding between the youth of both nations.
Bridges Built Over Decades
Ge Haijiao, chairman of Bank of China, weighed in on the economic side of the equation. Bank of China has been around long enough to witness firsthand the highs and lows of this diplomatic saga. “Bank of China is committed to promoting trade and business between our nations,” Ge said in a message read by Hu Wei, the bank’s US CEO.
The morning session also featured stories from Americans who, despite political uncertainty, have stayed loyal to building friendships with China. For instance, Sarah Lande, a resident of Iowa, shared how her town, Muscatine, has maintained strong ties with China’s Hebei province. Kelly Van Dries, another speaker, recalled a unique moment from 1979 when she had the privilege of presenting a cowboy hat to Chinese leader Deng Xiaoping during his visit to Texas.
These are small moments, yes, but they add up to something bigger. They remind us that even in troubled times, personal connections can help bridge the gap between nations.
The Youth Have Their Say
Later in the day, a spirited debate between young Chinese and American participants centered on artificial intelligence and its potential impact on society. They didn’t shy away from tough topics like the “Thucydides Trap” and the dangers of social media “information bubbles.” These young voices emphasized the need for better communication and a fresh perspective to steer clear of pitfalls that previous generations may have missed.
As tensions mount and the world watches closely, the Vision China event underscored that the US and China face a crucial crossroads. Now, more than ever, cooperation isn’t just an option—it’s a necessity.
“Political Climate Change” Forecasts Take the Heat Out of Presidential Campaigns on PurpleTV
Sep 13, 2024
PurpleTV
In a time when politics feels more like a storm than a debate, PurpleTV is taking a humorous approach to ease the tension. The channel, known for trying to find common ground between Republicans and Democrats, is now venturing into weather reports—but with a satirical twist. Enter Political Climate Change, a segment blending real weather forecasts with lighthearted jabs at the nation’s political landscape.
This new series is already making waves, with short weather updates that compare presidential campaigns to natural disasters. For instance, in their latest forecast, Kamala Harris is described as whipping up a “hurricane of facts and zingers,” leaving Donald Trump “clinging to outdated talking points” like someone trying to survive a perfect storm. Using playful visuals, PurpleTV represents Trump as an orange tornado and Harris as Air Force Two, tracking their campaign movements across the country.
PurpleTV’s CEO, Matthew Davidge, doesn’t pull punches either, explaining, “Americans don’t want to live under an orange cloud for four more years—they want blue skies.” From Comedy to Commentary
PurpleTV first made its debut during the Republican National Convention in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, back in June 2024. Since then, its lighthearted but pointed commentary has attracted a growing audience. The channel now broadcasts in 25 major TV markets, covering swing states like Pennsylvania, Michigan, Georgia, and Arizona. That’s not all—PurpleTV’s viewership now reaches over 40 million people nationwide.
The addition of Brian Tyler Cohen, a popular political commentator with millions of social media followers, has also boosted PurpleTV’s appeal. Cohen, who’s interviewed political heavyweights from Kamala Harris to Gavin Newsom, brings his sharp insights and wit to the channel, adding a daily dose of political reality to the mix. Bringing Humor to the Airwaves
Political Climate Change is more than just clever weather analogies—it’s a breath of fresh air in a political season that’s often heavy and divisive. By combining real weather reports with political satire, PurpleTV offers a new way for viewers to engage with the ongoing presidential race without feeling bogged down by partisan tension.
For those craving some comic relief in the middle of a heated political season, Political Climate Change might just be the cool breeze they need.
PurpleTV continues to expand its footprint and social media presence. Viewers can catch its content on Facebook, Instagram, X (formerly Twitter), and TikTok @WatchPurpleTV.
Are We in a Modern-Day Witch Hunt? New Publication Aims to Expose Dark Corners of Journalism
Sep 13, 2024
In a bold move that promises to rattle some cages, TransMedia Group has been brought on board to represent Witch Hunt News, a publication with a mission to pull back the curtain on what it calls “modern-day witch hunts” in journalism. The goal? To separate fact from fiction and find out if certain stories, often labeled as witch hunts by their subjects, really hold water or are nothing more than smear campaigns.
TransMedia Group’s president, Adrienne Mazzone, made it clear that their task is to shine a spotlight on what Witch Hunt News uncovers. Specifically, the publication aims to investigate claims of false and defamatory reporting targeting individuals and businesses—particularly when it comes to high-profile figures like former President Donald Trump. After all, Trump has famously referred to many investigations against him as nothing more than witch hunts.
“Is Trump really the victim of a witch hunt, or is there solid evidence behind the claims against him? That’s exactly what Witch Hunt News plans to dig into, and we’re here to get their findings out into the public,” said Mazzone.
But it’s not just about Trump. Witch Hunt News has set its sights on a broader objective: exposing whether certain negative reports are simply reputation-damaging pieces disguised as journalism, or if they are backed by solid evidence of wrongdoing. The publication doesn’t intend to throw around accusations lightly. According to Mazzone, the real test is in how accurate, fair, and substantiated these claims of corruption or dishonesty are. Investigating the Case of Michael Mota
One of the current hot topics under Witch Hunt News’ microscope is a series of articles about Rhode Island entrepreneur Michael Mota. Mota’s lawyer, Peter Ticktin, has filed a lawsuit claiming that 16 newspaper reports were nothing short of character assassination—calling them “false and defamatory.”
Witch Hunt News is digging deep into these claims, with the aim of revealing whether the reports were a deliberate hit job or whether they simply reported the facts. Mazzone made it clear that if there is proof of defamatory intent, Witch Hunt News plans to expose it.
“Our mission is to highlight what Witch Hunt News has evidence for—deliberate efforts by some media outlets to tear down reputations based on shaky or entirely false reporting,” Mazzone said. The Stakes for Journalism
The stakes couldn’t be higher. With claims of media bias and sensationalism flying left and right, Witch Hunt News is positioning itself as the watchdog of the watchdogs. The publication aims to make sure that when the media points fingers, they do so with accuracy and integrity, not just for clicks or political points.
Mazzone didn’t hold back in addressing the importance of journalistic accuracy. “It’s high time that all forms of media uphold the highest standards of fairness and truth when accusing anyone—whether it’s a person or a business—of unethical or illegal behavior. If there’s proof, it needs to be front and center in the reporting.”
In this era of sensational headlines and viral stories, Witch Hunt News wants to ensure that “the proof is in the pudding.” TransMedia Group Steps Up
As the PR powerhouse representing Witch Hunt News, TransMedia Group will be handling the task of making sure the publication’s investigations and findings reach the public. With decades of experience serving clients across industries, TransMedia is no stranger to stirring the pot.
For those eager to see if Witch Hunt News can uncover the truth behind media firestorms, this new partnership with TransMedia promises to deliver some eye-opening revelations.
Stay tuned. It looks like the hunt for truth is just getting started.
Presidential Race Deadlocked: Harris and Trump Tied as Election Nears
Sep 13, 2024
The Harvard-CAPS Harris Poll is a monthly research collaboration between the Harvard Center for American Political Studies and the Harris Poll
The latest Harvard CAPS/Harris Poll has delivered a real nail-biter as Vice President Kamala Harris and former President Donald Trump are now locked in a 50-50 battle for the White House. With less than two months until Election Day, this new poll is making waves, showing just how tight the race has become.
Released on September 9, the poll reveals Harris has caught up with Trump in voter support, yet Trump’s job approval remains higher at 52%. Meanwhile, Harris’ performance as Vice President is backed by 47% of voters.
It’s a tale of two campaigns, each with their strengths. Voters are split on who they trust more with different issues. Trump wins points for his handling of the economy, crime, and immigration, while Harris garners support for her stance on abortion, climate change, and racial equality.
Trump enjoys solid backing from male, rural, and white voters, while Harris leads among women, Black voters, and those living in urban areas. One particularly interesting twist in this dead-even race? A sizable chunk of independent voters remains undecided. Nearly 33% say they’re still mulling over who to back, signaling that this election could swing at the last moment.
In terms of Hispanic voters, Harris leads, but just barely. She holds 50% support compared to Trump’s 43%, and with 7% still undecided, this group could play a crucial role in the final outcome. Approval Ratings and Big Issues
While Harris’ approval rating is holding steady, Trump edges her out with slightly higher numbers, particularly around his previous time in office. Trump is seen as better equipped to handle issues like the economy, relations with China, and crime prevention. Harris, on the other hand, strikes a chord with voters on topics such as racial equality, climate policy, and healthcare for immigrants.
The poll sheds light on some stark contrasts. For example, Trump is viewed as a firm ally of Israel and a defender of free speech on social media. Harris, meanwhile, is perceived as leaning towards more progressive policies like open borders and the move to electric vehicles.
This split between their policy approaches leaves voters at a crossroads, with many still trying to figure out which path they want the country to take. Biden’s Popularity in Question
President Biden’s numbers remain relatively flat, with a 42% approval rating, a figure that hasn’t budged much in recent months. His strongest support comes from Black voters, with 66% giving him the thumbs up, but he struggles with Hispanic voters, where his approval sits at just 39%.
Voters are particularly unhappy with how Biden is handling foreign policy, including the ongoing Israel-Hamas conflict, which continues to draw criticism. On the domestic front, the economy remains a sore spot. A hefty 63% of voters say the U.S. economy is going in the wrong direction, and inflation is still top of mind for many. In fact, 42% now cite it as the most pressing issue, a jump from previous months.
Nearly half of voters say their personal financial situations have worsened over the past year, with rural, older, and female voters feeling the pinch the most. Israel-Hamas and Venezuela: Polarizing Issues
The poll also delves into global issues, showing a clear divide on public sentiment. On the ongoing Israel-Hamas war, voters overwhelmingly support Israel, with 79% backing the country in its fight. The majority of voters believe a ceasefire should only happen once Hamas is removed from power and all hostages are released.
When it comes to the Venezuelan elections, however, many voters—especially younger ones—seem underinformed. Surprisingly, 38% don’t believe the election was stolen by President Nicolás Maduro, and nearly half of voters aged 18-24 actually support him. On the flip side, 57% of voters back U.S. sanctions on Venezuela due to alleged election fraud. What’s Next?
With both Harris and Trump tied in the polls and a large percentage of independents still undecided, the 2024 presidential election is shaping up to be one for the history books. Key issues like the economy, immigration, and racial equality will likely determine the final outcome.
As we inch closer to Election Day, the political stage is set for what could be one of the most closely watched—and contested—races in modern U.S. history.