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The Pulse - Frequently Asked Questions
The Pulse is a first-of-its-kind polling series commissioned by GSI. These first results provide a benchmark dataset in the Quality of Life Index and reveals critical insights into Spokane County voter sentiment on issues such as public safety, homelessness, housing, education, and economic development. This scientific polling series provides a comprehensive snapshot of voter opinions and is designed to guide decision-makers by reflecting broad community insights. The results provide timely feedback as local leaders face pressing policy decisions affecting the region’s future.
Here are some of our most frequently asked questions. To view the poll results, go back to the Election Center.
Q. Why did GSI conduct this poll?
A. We commissioned this poll to gain a clear, scientific understanding of voter sentiment on the critical issues facing Spokane. Our goal is to move beyond the influence of a small, vocal minority in policymaking and give decision-makers accurate, data-driven insights into what the broader community wants. GSI is committed to being a policy resource and providing real solutions that reflect the needs and priorities of our region.
Q. What makes this poll unique?
A. This is the first poll of its kind in Spokane. We’ve invested in groundbreaking research to provide a comprehensive snapshot of the community’s views on their quality of life and key policy issues facing our community. GSI is setting a new standard by using scientific, replicable data to inform the conversation around public policy.
Q. Why are you releasing this poll now?
A. The Pulse is intended to measure voter sentiment at critical junction points in the political cycle. The fall survey, conducted just before an election can provide insight to voter attitudes as they head to the polls and use the information to help shape future advocacy and electoral efforts. The Spring survey is positioned to provide similar insights to candidates as they are considering running for office and to policymakers as they consider ballot initiatives.
The Pulse is also a messaging piece in and of itself. GSI’s job as an advocate and community changemaker is to center conversations around our economy and our future. Conducting and releasing the poll around critical political decision-making cuts through the political messaging and allows the community’s voice to be heard on an issues-focused basis.
Q. How was the poll conducted?
A. EMC Research conducted the poll using a hybrid approach, incorporating email-to-web, text-to-web, and live telephone interviews. We randomly selected 600 registered voters in Spokane County, concentrating on the City of Spokane with a broader sample to increase reliability on City issues. The poll was in the field October 1-6, 2024 and has a margin of error of ±4.4%, which means it’s both scientific and reliable.
Q. Why did you concentrate on the City of Spokane?
A. GSI directed EMC to ensure that there were more interviews conducted in the City of Spokane in proportion to its population in the county as a whole. Because City of Spokane respondents make up half of the poll but only about 40% of voters in the county, they were “oversampled.”
This increases the degree of certainty that we have in the poll accurately representing the views of City of Spokane voters. GSI felt this was necessary due to many of the questions concentrating on issues within the City of Spokane that city voters would have input on.
Q. What topics does the Poll cover?
A. The poll focuses on several key areas, broken down into two primary datasets:
– Quality of Life Index: A composite score created from responses to core questions about how residents feel about life in Spokane.
– Policy Sentiment: Voter attitudes on current and emerging policies related to public safety, homelessness, housing, economic development, education and more.
Q. How will the results be used?
A. We’ll use the results to guide our advocacy and community outreach efforts. This data will help GSI engage with policymakers at the local, state, and federal levels, ensuring that Spokane’s leadership is aligned with the broader community’s priorities. It will also inform our work on public safety, economic development, and workforce growth, key pillars of GSI’s mission.
Q. What is the Quality of Life Index?
A. As the saying goes, “you can’t change what you don’t measure.” The Quality of Life Index is a score built from responses to key questions asked throughout the survey. It measures how residents feel about their overall experience in Spokane and how they feel things are going. It provides a benchmark that we will use in future polls to track changes and trends over time.
The Quality of Life Index is the “needle” that public policymakers should endeavor to move in a positive direction. GSI remains committed to being a partner in moving this needle in a positive direction.
Q. How is GSI ensuring transparency with this data?
A. We’re committed to sharing the full results of this poll openly with our members, partners, and the broader community. By providing clear and transparent data, we hope to foster informed discussions that lead to effective, community-supported solutions.
Q. Will this poll be conducted regularly?
A. Yes, we plan to use this format to conduct future polls that will allow us to track changes in voter sentiment and quality of life over time. This ongoing data will be invaluable in shaping long-term strategies for Spokane’s growth and development.
Q. Who should I contact if I have more questions?
A. Feel free to reach out to Jake Mayson, GSI’s Director of Public Policy, at (509) 321-3625 for more details or to discuss the poll results.