UCI Secures $300,000 Grant to Expand Influential Polling Efforts
Orange County residents generally support immigration and believe that undocumented immigrants should have a pathway to citizenship. Despite feelings of dissatisfaction regarding the broader direction of the United States and California, many locals remain optimistic about developments within the county. However, issues such as homelessness and the high cost of housing rank as the most significant problems, prompting over one-third of residents to consider relocating. These insights stem from the UCI-OC Poll, a public opinion research initiative led by Jon Gould, dean of the University of California, Irvine’s School of Social Ecology.
Gould’s appointment at UCI in early 2022 came with the goal of revitalizing the university’s polling operations and increasing its engagement with the local community. The recent award of a $300,000 grant from the John Randolph Haynes and Dora Haynes Foundation marks a significant step forward in achieving these objectives. This funding will support additional rounds of polling, enhancing the frequency and depth of research conducted by the UCI-OC Poll.
Community Insights and Political Trends
The UCI-OC Poll serves two critical purposes: it equips county leaders with valuable data to address local issues and provides a unique perspective on national trends within a politically diverse county. With approximately one-third of the population identifying as Democratic, one-third as Republican, and one-third as independent, Orange County represents a microcosm of the broader national political landscape.
Gould emphasizes the importance of understanding the “why” behind polling results, rather than just the “what.” For instance, knowing how residents voted is less insightful than uncovering the motivations behind their choices. This approach enables the polling team to delve deeper into pressing concerns, such as homelessness, by exploring residents’ experiences, priorities, and potential solutions.
Engagement and Future Directions
The UCI-OC Poll distinguishes itself by prioritizing community engagement and collaboration with local leaders. The initiative has set up an advisory group to guide polling topics and works closely with businesses, nonprofits, and governmental organizations to disseminate findings. Gould notes that effective polling should not merely present results but rather foster discussions that lead to actionable solutions.
When asked about the accuracy of polling in the United States, Gould acknowledges the challenges but maintains that effective polling is achievable with respondents’ willingness to participate. He highlights ongoing experiments with various technologies, including the potential use of artificial intelligence (AI), to reach a diverse demographic more effectively. AI may assist in conducting polls in multiple languages, enhancing inclusivity and reliability.
Despite the skepticism surrounding traditional polling methods, Gould remains committed to a nonpartisan approach, ensuring that the UCI-OC Poll does not cater to political campaigns. Instead, the focus is on generating insights that can inform and benefit the community at large. As he articulates, understanding public opinion through well-structured polling can serve as a valuable tool for addressing the complex issues facing Orange County today.
