About two-thirds of Rural Nebraskans’ think a lack of civil discourse is a somewhat serious (33%) or very serious (32%) problem in America. That’s according to the latest results of the University of Nebraska-Lincoln Rural Poll.

UNL professor, L.J. McElravy, says this feeling of missing constructive forums reflects interparty and intraparty conflict in the state capitol and in Washington D.C..

“I think it speaks to what's currently happening broadly within our political systems, whether at the state or national level,” McElravy said. “When we see what's going on right now in the House of Representatives, the tension that exists — not just across party lines but even within parties — is something that I think is really quite palpable for rural Nebraskans.”

McElravy said the poll questions were asked in May and June of this year. He estimates that the answers would be even worse if asked today. Nebraska Public Media | October 20, 2023