Access to Civil Justice Will Motivate Voters

Ric Davis

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A national poll of 2008 voters by Peter D. Hart Research Associates, Inc. reveals voters have anxiety concerning corporate misconduct. There is large support among voters for a strong civil justice system to ensure corporate accountability and fairness. A memo summarizing the poll's findings concludes:

Americans are deeply worried about their nation's future, and concern about corporate misconduct is a major source of their anxiety. "Worried swing voters," who see corporate irresponsibility as a central problem, may play a pivotal role in the 2008 election.

Voters support the civil justice system as an important remedy for corporate misconduct, and reject legal "reforms" that restrict plaintiffs' ability to hold corporations accountable and obtain fair restitution.

Voters will support candidates who defend the civil system over candidates who assail "frivolous lawsuits" and advocate "tort reform." Pro-civil justice candidates not only command overwhelming support from swing voters, but also appeal to significant blocks of Republicans.
"This poll demonstrates overwhelming voter support for a civil justice system ensuring that those who have been injured by the wrongdoing or negligence of others can receive justice and fair compensation - even when taking on the most powerful interests," said American Association for Justice CEO Jon Haber. "It shows wide support among voters for a vital civil justice system continuing to provide a level playing field for people to hold corporations accountable when they seek to evade responsibility for their misconduct.