Release - Concern about taxation disclosed in WyLiberty poll

CHEYENNE, WY: The Wyoming Liberty Group released its Taxpayer Protection poll question results today, showing that 65 percent of respondents are more likely to vote for a candidate who has signed a pledge promising to not raise state taxes.

"The people of Wyoming are sensible so of course are more likely to vote for candidates who commit to voting against tax increases," said Susan Gore, WyLiberty founder. "People know they can't shoulder more taxes given the vulnerable condition of the Wyoming economy."

In a telephone survey of 600 likely Wyoming voters conducted between July 11-13, 2016, 65 percent of respondents said they were more likely to vote for a candidate who had signed a pledge, compared to 25 percent who said they were less likely. Eighty-one percent of self-identified conservative republicans, 56 percent of moderate republicans, 53 percent of independents and 46 percent of democrats said they were more likely to vote for a candidate who signed a pledge.

"Candidates who commit to no new taxes or tax increases do more than merely promise to hold the line on taxation," said Maureen Bader, WyLiberty economist. "The willingness to be held accountable for promises made during the election campaign seems to resonate with most conservative and independent voters."

Income and age also influenced results. People making under $40,000 per year are more likely to vote for a candidate who has signed, at 68.8 percent, compared to those making over $75,000 per year, at 60.8 percent. Those under 45 are also more likely to vote for a candidate who has signed the pledge, at 76.1 percent, compared to those over 45, at 63.1 percent.

"The drop in minerals tax revenue and subsequent fiscal crisis has created a great deal of concern about whether the government will raise taxes or lower spending during the next budget session and beyond," said Bader. "This seems particularly true of people with lower incomes and younger people, who may be more worried about their future economic situation here in Wyoming."

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The survey was conducted by OnMessage Inc. Wes Anderson is a leading GOP pollster with 20 years of experience in opinion research. As a founding partner, Wes now leads the polling divisions of OnMessage Inc. You can read more about OnMessage Inc. and Wes Anderson at ‪onmessageinc.com.