Many Voices One Valley

A Survey of the Mid-Hudson Region

Responsiveness of Local Decision Makers
One of the biggest changes since 2002 is in residents’ perceptions of the responsiveness of local decision makers. Five years ago, residents were divided when asked whether individuals in positions to make decisions for their community mostly see things as the public does or mostly see things differently. Half felt there was a disconnect between decision makers and the public, and 43% felt decision makers were, in fact, in step with public perceptions.

Since that time, residents’ opinions of local decision makers have grown more skeptical.  Most people living in the Mid-Hudson Valley now think there is a disconnect between the views of those in leadership positions and the general public. 


60% of residents in the region believe decision makers see things differently than the public.  Only 35% think leaders in their community are in touch with public sentiment.
This impression, that the views of decision makers deviate from public opinion, is widespread throughout the Mid-Hudson Valley. A majority of residents in all seven counties now believe decision makers see things differently than the average person. Five years ago, there was a discernable difference in public attitudes on this point among the different counties.

Today, residents of Dutchess County are most likely to think there is a difference between the views of decision makers and the public than residents of the other counties. 65% of Dutchess County residents think their leaders do not represent the views of residents, and only 29% think they do. This reflects a gap of thirty-six percentage points.


This figure represents a dramatic contrast from five years ago. In 2002, 48% of Dutchess County residents thought there was a disconnect between local leaders and the public, but a large proportion, 42%, did not. This represented a gap of only six percentage points between those who felt local decision makers were out of step and those who felt they were, in fact, in step with public opinion.


Putnam County has also seen a significant change in residents’ perceptions. In 2002, Putnam County residents were divided on the issue. 48% saw a disconnect between their leaders and the public, and 47% did not. Now, 61% think decision makers in their community are not in touch with the public. Only 33% believe they are.


Race and ethnicity are also important factors. African American and Latino residents are more likely than white residents to think decision makers see things differently.


Income plays a role, as well. Residents with lower income are generally more critical of those in leadership positions than residents in households with higher income. Only 28% of residents in households that earn an annual income of less than $30,000 believe decision makers see things the way they do. This compares with 43% of residents with a six figure income who share this view.