WASHINGTON, Jan. 25 (UPI) -- Americans think the economy and terrorism should be the president's top priorities and attitudes on energy and the budget have shifted, researchers say.
The Pew Research Center for the People & the Press said Monday 49 percent of Americans polled said energy should be a high concern but that number is down from 60 percent last year. The numbers show a rise from 53 percent to 60 percent for those saying reducing the budget deficit should be a top priority.
Despite the vocal healthcare debate, 57 percent said healthcare costs are a top concern, down from 69 percent in 2008 and 68 percent in 2007, Pew said.
There has been very little difference since 2008 between the priority Democrats and Republicans place on reducing the budget deficit. The current survey shows a single point separating Democrats (60 percent top priority) from Republicans (61 percent top priority).
