Outlier Media, in collaboration with the Detroit Metro Area Communities Study (DMACS) from the University of Michigan, has unveiled a comprehensive study involving 1,100 Detroit residents. This study provides crucial insights into voter engagement at both local and federal levels. The 2024 election survey sheds light on the motivations driving Detroit voter behavior and the broader implications of these findings.
“We know very little about why Detroiters do or don’t vote, and which issues they most want elected officials to address,” said the study’s lead researcher. “This study provides a much-needed understanding of the factors influencing voter behavior in Detroit, offering a clearer picture of the city’s political landscape.”
Key Findings
Voter Participation: Despite a general distrust in the political system, 70% of Detroiters reported they are likely to vote in the General Election.
Presidential Candidates: The survey revealed dissatisfaction with both likely Presidential candidates. Joe Biden received a favorable opinion from a minority, with 34% neutral and 27% unfavorable. Donald Trump’s ratings were even lower, with only 9% favorable, 23% neutral, and a significant 67% unfavorable.
Commitment to Detroit: More than half of the respondents emphasized the importance of living in Detroit, with 56% planning to stay long-term and 41% wanting to become more involved in their community. Nearly half have discussed community issues with their neighbors over the past year.
“These survey results are unique due to the large sample size, providing a rare and in-depth look at the opinions and attitudes of Detroit residents,” noted a representative from DMACS.
Major Issues for Detroiters
When asked about the most critical issues for elected officials to address, the responses varied by jurisdiction:
City of Detroit:
Crime/safety/violence: 37%
Blight/vacant houses, structures, land: 16%
Affordable housing/housing: 15%
Street repair/maintenance: 12%
Education/schools: 9%
U.S. Government:
Inflation/cost of living: 16%
Healthcare (including health insurance): 14%
Crime/safety/violence: 13%
Employment/quality jobs: 10%
Affordable housing/housing: 10%
Survey Methodology
The Outlier Media survey was conducted by DMACS, inviting 2,150 people to participate, with over half responding, which is statistically significant. The responses were collected both online and via telephone between April 1 and April 12, 2024. Launched in 2016, DMACS is a panel survey designed to understand the experiences and attitudes of Detroit residents. The original panel was drawn from a probability sample of all occupied households in Detroit, with the panel refreshed over the years to ensure comprehensive representation through additional address-based sampling.
The survey paints a picture of an electorate that, despite feeling somewhat alienated by their elected officials, still believes in the power of individual actions to bring about positive change in Detroit. This suggests a disconnect between residents and local government but also highlights an underlying optimism about grassroots efforts and personal involvement in civic matters.
For the full survey, click here.