PUBLIC OPINION > Nik Wallenda's Niagara Walk Was Admirable

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On June 15, Nik Wallenda became the first person in more than 100 years to tightrope-walk across Niagara Falls, and the first ever to walk directly over the main gorge. It took him years to receive approval because the United States and Canada were worried it might encourage amateurs to try, but he finally got permission, and did it on live television. We asked the public if it was admirable, or just plain crazy.

You've got to be a little bit crazy to want to do something like that, but he was clearly well-prepared and didn't falter once throughout the entire walk, so admiration won out. The Top Opinion noted, "He's wearing a safety harness. Even if he falls he won't get hurt aside from a possible wedgie." However, that's typically not Wallenda's style. ABC required him to wear it because they didn't want to broadcast a live death. He even said the harness made him feel like a "jackoff."

Teens Look Up to Him

Most age groups were split over the question, but younger voters were in awe. More than four-fifths of the teen vote admired the feat, as well as about two-thirds of the 18-24 group. After that it was about 50-50. Oddly, there was an enormous spike between 55 and 65, where voters were even more enthusiastic than teens.

Liberals Look Away

Usually, liberals and atheists vote in the same direction, but that was not the case this time. Atheists were 33% more likely than liberals to admire Wallenda's walk. They were the standout percentage, with 83% admiration. Conservatives and Christians showed moderate support, and were within 4% of each other.

Low Incomes Love It

The income breakdown was probably somewhat related to age, but higher incomes, particularly those between $50,000 and $100,000, were less impressed than any age group. They were one of the few demographics who were more likely to think he's crazy. However, voters over $100,000 had a change of heart.

If you'd like to vote on this question, dig deeper into the demographics, or engage in existing discussion about the topic, visit our poll about Nik Wallenda. We'd love to hear from you!

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Top Opinion

• doctor12quinn 2012/06/20 14:03:45
  

  +4

  Forget the fear:
  Africa for the Africans,Asia for the Asians,white countries for EVERYBODY!
  This is genocide according to international law anti-racist is a codeword for anti-white.
  Feel the inner power.

  >> See Replies

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