The Polish President’s office, under Karol Nawrocki, commissioned and paid for public opinion polls after initially denying such expenditures, raising questions about transparency.
Presidential Office Commissioned Public Opinion Research
Journalists have long reported that Karol Nawrocki’s office commissioned research to gauge public sentiment on various issues, but details of these orders were previously unknown.
In December, a request was submitted to the President’s Chancellery for information regarding expenses incurred for research and polls. The Chancellery initially responded in January, stating that no such expenses had been made up to the date of the request (December 5th).
Despite this initial response, communication with officials continued, proving to be justified as the Chancellery had, in fact, commissioned polls but paid for them only a few days after the request was received.
Scope of the Research
The President’s Chancellery ultimately entered into four contracts. The analyses conducted by the contracted entities focused on evaluating the President’s activities and institutional relations, attitudes towards selected social, legal, and economic issues, and opinions on specific legislative projects and social matters.
Officials declined to release detailed results, stating they constituted internal working material.
Focus Group Interviews Conducted
A notable aspect of the research was the Focus Group Interview, or “focus study,” where a group of respondents discussed a given topic with a moderator. These studies provide insight into the views of “ordinary voters” and their perception of political phenomena.
Public Opinion of President Nawrocki
Half of those surveyed hold a positive view of Karol Nawrocki. Understanding how his decisions might be received is valuable for presidential officials. Since taking office less than a year ago, the President has vetoed 29 bills.
His policy approach, coupled with his open criticism of the Donald Tusk government, may evoke strong emotions among voters.
Recent CBOS Poll Results
According to the latest CBOS poll, 50% of respondents rate the President’s performance positively (a record high of 54% was recorded in September). 38% hold a negative opinion (record highs of 39% were recorded in January and February). 12% have no opinion.
Editing Information
Edited by Kamila Cieślik.