Eureka's 'American Opportunity Index' Finds Reagan Ideals Are Alive and Well

Eureka College released the results of its first ever "American Opportunity Index" this week, and the national poll found that Americans still honor President Ronald Reagan's ideals and believe that opportunity in this country is operating at 66 percent of its full potential.

Conducted on behalf of The Ronald W. Reagan Society of Eureka College, the index results release coincides with Feb. 6 — what would have been Reagan's 105th birthday.

"It is clear that many voters believe in the concept of freedom and opportunity in America as well as its promise to exist in the future," survey research group McLaughlin & Associates said in a press release. "In other words, voters overwhelmingly believe in Ronald Reagan's 'Shining City on the Hill' and the American Dream. Furthermore, most voters acknowledge America's 'exceptionalism' when comparing the prevalence of this concept with other countries."

The index also found that perceptions of American opportunity sometime vary depending on who you ask. For example, younger voters may feel more pessimistic than older generations.

Still, 91 percent of respondents agree that the United States provides the freedoms and opportunities needed to follow one's dreams.

"The results from the survey are fascinating and groundbreaking," Jim McLaughlin, president and partner of McLaughlin & Associates, said in the statement. "We are very excited to help Eureka College launch the first-of-its kind Index on American Opportunity, a value so central to its mission."

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