WASHINGTON, D.C. -- The novel coronavirus pandemic provides a view into the deep partisan divisions that have persisted despite the unfolding national crisis.
Two recent Gallup/Knight Foundation surveys find Americans' understanding about the coronavirus is strongly shaped by partisan affiliation and news consumption habits, especially when basic facts are politicized.Specifically, while Democrats and independents increasingly see COVID-19 as more deadly than the seasonal flu, Republicans' views have not changed.
And while Democrats tend to think the death toll from COVID-19 is understated, Republicans believe it is exaggerated.The surveys were fielded March 17-29 and April 14-20, 2020, as part of Knight Foundation's Trust, Media and