Most Americans oppose tax increases to save state jobs

A clear majority — 69 percent — of Americans are unwilling to pay more in taxes to save government workers from being laid off, according to the latest Rasmussen Reports poll. 

The survey also found that 63 percent of respondents oppose tax increases to prevent cuts in entitlement programs aimed at low-income Americans. 

Respondents were slightly more open to funding education, with 34 percent willing to pay higher taxes to improve funding for public schools, while 54 percent were opposed to the idea. 

The percentage breakdown was about the same for those who support and oppose tax increases to prevent layoffs of first-responders — 37 percent and 52 percent respectfully.  

The survey tapped the opinions of 1,000 adults and was conducted between July 5-6, 2010.