Governor Malloy's Approval Rating Remains Low

New governors across the country are receiving low approval ratings a recent Qunnipiac University Poll finds that Connecticut Governor Dannel Malloy is no exception. The numbers reflect voters' frustration with the new state budget. But other policies are receiving more support.

 

Nearly three out of four Connecticut voters support paid sick leave and two-thirds support marijuana decriminalization, but the state budget receives only 35 percent approval. With the budget and economy outweighing other issues, Governor Malloy's overall approval rating remains low. Since March, it has increased by three points to 38 percent. However, his disapproval rating also increased to 44 percent.

 

Quinnipiac University Poll Director Douglas Schwartz says the budget weighs heavily in voters' minds. "Many voters tell us that they're dissatisfied and some are even angry with the budget."

 

Schwartz added that it is still early and the Governor's approval rating can improve.  "If the economy turns around, his poll numbers will turn around."

 

Malloy entered the Governor's Mansion after the very popular Jodi Rell, a Republican. Her approval ratings were typically around 70 percent. New York's Governor Andrew Cuomo has a high 61 percent approval rating, but he entered office after two very unpopular governors and his budget didn't increase taxes.