On this week’s Poll Hub: A stunning moment in Venezuela puts U.S. military power and public opinion front and center. Americans are sharply divided over the operation to capture the country’s president, but nearly everyone agrees on one thing: Venezuela’s future should be decided by Venezuelans themselves. Next, we examine why Americans are questioning the press. With trust in traditional news falling and more people turning to platforms, creators, and algorithms for information, what does this shift mean for democracy, shared facts, and the future of polling? And, for our fun fact, we’re shifting gears to see how many Americans have experience driving a car with a manual transmission.

Holiday spending has a big impact on the US economy, so how many gifts people buy isn't just about smiling faces on Christmas morning. Will Americans' blue mood about the economy make things worse? We're also digging deep into our new poll about rising prices and household jitters plus how that's impacting Trump's approval rating. Finally, we share a fun fact from past polling about whether Americans ever give “rain check” gifts during the holidays.

Gen Z is divided on what success means today. We look at how young men and women differ on marriage, children, and even whether they want to stay in the United States. Then, our holiday fun fact takes on a classic seasonal question about when Americans open their presents.

Are Americans REALLY eating healthy? Dutchess Outreach’s Deanna Jacobs joins us to unpack why so many think their diets are balanced, even as access to fresh food and SNAP benefits remains uncertain. Then, we dive into the rise of Xania Monet, the first AI-created artist to hit the Billboard charts. Is she the future of music, a threat to human artists, or something in between? Finally, our Fun Fact looks at America’s favorite season to travel.

On this week’s Poll Hub: We’re looking at how Americans are getting their news in 2025, and what that means. Our first guest, Will Jordan of Global Strategy Group, joins us to break down new research on the growing divide between active and passive news consumers. With more people encountering news by accident instead of seeking it out, what does this shift mean for staying informed? Then, we turn to the rise of biometric security, Dr. Gideon Christian helps us explore how Americans feel about these technologies, where they support their use, and where major concerns remain. And, for our fun fact, in which season would you choose Thanksgiving to be?

The latest NPR/PBS News/Marist Poll shows a significant shift heading into 2026. From Democrats’ strong generic ballot advantage to Americans’ frustration with DC and their top priority for the Trump administration, we’re diving deep into where voters stand and why it matters now. Then, we track how voting is changing. With early and mail ballots soaring recently in places like Virginia and NYC, we connect public opinion with real turnout and what it means for election officials and voters nationwide. And, for our Fun Fact, we’re flashing back to a 2005 poll on whether Americans prefer Thanksgiving at home or at the White House. Is that a real question?

We’re exploring how the places we gather can shape the way we participate in democracy. Author Sarah Stamper joins us to talk about the decline of local hangouts and community spaces and what that means for civic connection and voter engagement. And for our Fun Fact, we’re unwrapping a holiday throwback about when Americans really start their Christmas shopping.

The votes are in, and NYC has a new mayor-elect: Zohran Mamdani. Plus, Mikie Sherrill wins the NJ gubernatorial election and Abigail Spanberger becomes the governor-elect in Virginia. How did the polls do? Let's debrief! Then, we talk with Marist's very own Coach Pete Colaizzo of the cross country and track and field teams about marathon running. We'll also hear from a familiar face about his own running experience. Welcome back, Neel Viswanathan! And, in this week's fun fact, getting rid of traditions...Is this some sort of trick?

Who's it gonna be? The NYC Mayoral race is one almost everyone around the country is following. Will the city elect its first Muslim -- and a Democratic Socialist to boot -- or pick the scandal-plagued former governor who resigned in disgrace? We're digging into the data from our new poll. Then, Halloween isn't just about costumes and candy. From record-breaking consumer enthusiasm to increased awareness of risks, we're talking celebration, spending, and safety this spooky season! Oh...and we're in costume so make sure to check out the YouTube version of this episode! And, for our fun fact, grab your popcorn and close your eyes, we're talking scary movies!

What really makes a president a strong leader? The author of an explosive book about Donald Trump joins to explain how language shapes our view of leadership. Next, we look at sports betting. It's quickly become a massive industry but at what cost? Finally, our Fun Fact explores a feeling that might seem strangely familiar: déjà vu.

Two years after October 7th, Americans are rethinking the Israel-Palestine conflict. Support for a two-state solution has fallen, and approval of Israel’s actions in Gaza has hit record lows. At the same time, more Americans, especially younger ones, support recognizing Palestinian statehood. Then, we look at the perfection illusion online. From flawless bodies to curated success, social media has fueled comparison and anxiety, leaving many feeling they’ll never measure up. And, in this week’s fun fact, we’re talking sports collectibles — and what really drives Americans to keep them.

Columbus Day has long been part of American tradition, but many are rethinking what it represents. We explore how Indigenous Peoples’ Day is changing the way Americans reflect on their history and identity. Then, we turn to immigration, one of the nation’s most defining and debated topics. The way questions are worded can shape how people think about immigration and the policies surrounding it. For our fun fact, we’re talking takeout. From pizza to Chinese food, Americans have strong opinions about their favorite meals, and the top pick might surprise you.

On this week’s Poll Hub, we explore how class in America shapes daily life far beyond money or jobs, influencing friendships, use of public spaces, and support systems. We also dive into our new poll with NPR and PBS News on Americans’ views about issues like free speech and the role of the National Guard in cities. Finally, we rewind to the 1970s for a fun fact: were drivers really obeying the 55 mph speed limit or speeding right past it?

Is the First Amendment still a cornerstone of American identity? After the murder of Charlie Kirk and heated debates about speech restrictions, we’re looking at what Americans really think about free speech, national pride, and what it means to be American. Are we saving our memories or losing them in a sea of photos? We’ll explore how digital overload, AI, and endless snapshots are reshaping the way we remember and what it means for future generations. And, for our fun fact we're looking at milk...is it only milk if it comes from animals?

New York City’s race for mayor is heating up. According to the latest Marist Poll, Zohran Mamdani leads the field, but Andrew Cuomo gains some ground in a head-to-head match-up. What do voters really think about the candidates and the city? Next, we ask: Is America still a capitalist icon? Support for capitalism is slipping, but socialism isn’t gaining. What’s driving the divide, and what does it mean for the economy? And, finally, from clothing to cologne, Americans weigh in on the worst gifts they’ve ever received, and you may think twice before your next holiday shopping spree.

The Trump Administration has announced the end of penny production, raising the question of whether America is moving toward a cashless -- or at least coinless -- society. Then, with more Americans saying they are not getting enough rest, we look at how sleep affects health and happiness. Finally, we revisit a poll asking whether college is still important if a good job is possible without it.

Nearly three years after ChatGPT’s debut, nearly all students use AI for schoolwork, but the public (and parents) still has doubts. Then, youth sports face rising costs, packed schedules, and safety concerns, leaving parents to wonder if kids are losing the fun. And a flashback to 1944 Minnesota, when no driving test was required to get a license. Yikes!

Homeownership is a big part of the American Dream, but, with soaring prices and steep rents, many renters worry they may never get there. The future of owning a home now feels more uncertain than ever. From covering bills to chasing passions, side hustles are reshaping how Americans think about work and financial independence. Younger generations especially aren’t convinced a traditional 9-to-5 is enough. We asked Americans if a hot dog counts as a sandwich… the results might surprise you.

Americans’ opinions on Ukraine have shifted dramatically from Obama through Biden and now into Trump’s second term. Today, support for aid is sharply split by party, and we explore what it could mean for America’s next moves. Then, UCLA’s Cassie Holmes explains time poverty as more of us feel stretched too thin and how it impacts health, happiness, and even kindness. And, to wrap things up, a long-awaited Fun Fact makes its debut with a special birthday twist…you won’t want to miss this one.

Is America still a global beacon of light and hope? Depends on who you ask. The way other nations view the U.S. (and China) is shifting. Then, we head to the barbershop, not just for a haircut, but for a conversation! We're talking about how barbershops are safe spaces for many communities. Finally, in lieu of a fun fact this week, we have a send-off, we're saying goodbye to a member of our Poll Hub team!