(Thumbnail image from census.gov)
Some Americans are resenting changes to the 2010 census. Take Republican Representative from Minnesota Michelle Bachman, for example.
She recently announced she’s only listing the number of persons in her household because of the recent addition of individuals’ phone numbers on the census. (Footage from CNN)
Media are looking at how Americans are reacting to the upcoming 2010 census. Some don’t like more liberal changes of some questions in the census over recent decades. Other media highlight the democratic advantages of the 2010 census.
We’re looking at multiple perspectives on the issue from FOX News, Examiner.com, The New York Times, CNN and Newsweek.
Representative Bachman sees other issues as well with the census, and tells FOX News the new census carries non-objective partisan motivations.
“Now ACORN, which in many places has served as the electioneering arm of the Democrat Party, now ACORN is being encouraged to become a national partner with the census? Many of the ACORN members, some of whom were indicted for voter fraud, will be considered potentially as enumerators to go door to door for data collection?”
A blogger on Examiner.com agrees with Sen. Bachman. He says the 2010 census strays from its original purpose.
“The intent of the Census in 1790 was not to acquire an in depth look at the citizen’s life, rather confirm the representation was adequately in line with the population. Perhaps the government would do a great service to the people if they realized the intent of our founding fathers.”
—Michael Schaus
But according to a contributor for The New York Times blog Economix, the 2010 census is crucial for America’s underrepresented populations.
“The census provides the foundation for computing many economic statistics…and is the basis for Congressional redistricting...Minorities and city dwellers are more likely to be undercounted by the census. Thus, problems with the census have serious economic and political consequences.”
—Alan B. Krueger, Princeton Economics Professor
But some Americans are already against the census. A U.S. Census Bureau employee talks to CNN correspondent Carol Costello.
“Jay says that just reinforces the fear some Americans already have about the census. 'Some are pretty blunt and say I’m not talking to you – I don’t want to have anything to do with the government. Get off my property or I’ll call the police.’ It’s why he takes his German Shepherd along with him in his truck.”
Gay activists anticipate the 2010 census results because it’s the first census since gay marriage is legal in some states. Newsweek quotes a gay activist who expects more response from gay and lesbian couples next year.
“It is fascinating that numbers will not be based on individual identity, but on love…that’s a clear message that we are not defined by our coming out, but by our commitments.”
So how do you feel about the changes in the 2010 census? How much personal information are you willing to give to the federal government?
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