WASHINGTON (AP) — Most Americans want government austerity, but they also want increased spending on a host of popular programs. That's according to the newly released General Social Survey. It finds that the public says education, crime fighting, health care, Social Security and the environment deserve more money. And that the U.S. should spend less on defense, space and foreign aid.
The survey comes as President Barack Obama and congressional Republicans spar over budget deficits.
It covers the public's shifting priorities over 40 years — from 1973 through 2012. During that time, one category has been stuck firmly in last place: foreign aid.
