New UMass Amherst Poll Gauges Massachusetts Residents’ Views on Gun Control, Biden, Abortion, Economy, Gubernatorial Race and More

The political scientists behind the UMass Amherst Poll released the results of their latest survey of 1,000 Massachusetts residents between June 15 and 21, shining a light on the Bay State’s views on gun control, President Joe Biden, support for reparations, the overturning of Roe v. Wade, the state economy and the upcoming gubernatorial race and more.

Among the findings of the poll, conducted, were:

• The majority of respondents (76%), including the 20% who identify as firearm owners, support gun control measures in Massachusetts.
• Over three-quarters (77%) of the poll’s respondents support raising the minimum age to purchase assault weapons and high-capacity magazines from 18 to 21. Nearly two-thirds (64%) support banning the manufacture and sale of them entirely, and 7 in 10 (71%) support ending the online sale of guns and ammunition.
• President Biden’s support in the Bay State fell below 50% for the first time.
• Higher support for reparations to African Americans than among the national populace.
• Concerns about the state and national economies growing in Massachusetts with 78% of respondents saying the national economy is only “fair” or “poor,” with 57% feeling likewise about the Bay State’s economy.
• Gov. Charlie Baker set to leave office with his highest approval rating in nearly two years, although more respondents say the Bay State is on the wrong track
• Nearly two-thirds (63%) of the poll’s respondents say the Supreme Court should not have overturned Roe v. Wade.
• More than half (56%) of those surveyed – including 60% of women and 63% of those ages 18-29 – also said that Congress should now take action by passing a law legalizing abortion in all 50 states.
• Maura Healey is the clear leader in the Democratic primary race for governor, while Geoff Diehl is running away with the Republican nomination, while down-ballot races remain competitive.
• A majority (54%) of those surveyed said they would vote “yes” on a question that would amend the state constitution to increase the state income tax from 5% to 9% for income above $1 million and dedicate the additional tax revenue to education and transportation purposes.

Full details and comments from the directors of the poll can be found in a series of stories published by the Office of News and Media Relations.