The state legislature continues to lose favor with Tennessee voters. A 2020 poll by Vanderbilt University showed 60% approval of the Tennessee General Assembly — and the latest polling, out this month, shows that figure has dropped to 46%.
More: Tennesseans unhappy with supermajority putting party interest over public, poll finds
Gov. Bill Lee’s approval rating stands at 54% — highest by far for self-described MAGA Republicans (83%), and lowest with Democrats (18%). The governor’s highest overall approval was 65% in May 2021.
Pollsters say state government appears to be taking a hit because of out-of-touch policymaking. For example, voters favor some tighter gun restrictions and exceptions to the state’s strict abortion ban.
Tennessee is among the states with a near-total abortion ban. But that doesn’t match with voters’ preference that the state allow some exceptions for pregnant people. These attitudes have been changing. As of 2014, a minority described themselves as “pro choice” in the poll, but the figure is now 52% in support of abortion rights.
On guns, there has been steady bipartisan agreement that some gun reforms are needed. Some 76% of Tennesseans favor a law to temporarily restrict access to guns for people at risk of harming themselves or others.
There’s more of a divide on arming teachers at school — a measure passed this year. The poll found 47% in support and 47% opposed, with a sharp partisan division.
A large share (71%) oppose an extension of the state’s permit-less handgun carry law to include long guns.
The poll reached 1,003 registered voters in a recent two-week period, and also includes findings on school vouchers, vaccines and attitudes toward democracy.
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