The court of public opinion often is the ultimate arbiter of controversial issues. If that turns out to be the case in the Tiger Woods situation, the final outcome may be neither pleasant nor profitable.
The latest Rasmussen Reports national telephone survey, released today (12-09-09) shows that “news coverage of the past week has taken its toll on the image of Tiger Woods.”
That national telephone survey found that “just 38% of Americans now have a favorable opinion of the golf superstar,” down from 56% a week ago. Two years ago, 83% of the public held a favorable opinion.
The Rasmussen data shows…
- 49% hold an Unfavorable opinion of Woods, up from 27% a week ago;
- 12% with have a Very Favorable opinion; and
- 21% have a Very Unfavorable view.
- 53% say they’re following the Tiger Woods story at least Somewhat Closely;
- 18% are following it Very Closely. Both figures are up from a week ago.
- 42% of men still have a Favorable opinion of Woods;
- 35% of women say so.
- 33% of married Americans offer a Favorable opinion of Woods.
Noting that “It’s hard to turn on the television or visit the Internet without finding the latest wrinkle in Woods’ marital saga,” Rasmussen notes understatedly that as an apparent result of the tempest “advertisers have stopped showing television commercials featuring the superstar, and he may lose millions of dollars in endorsements.”
Obviously, opinions vary widely. Some say the whole sordid affair is none of the media’s business. Others wonder which companies can conceivably have him as a spokesman. Others, but darn few, say “Who cares?”
Regardless of perspective, the Woods situation is a human tragedy. It is a series of decisions and events — some certain and some merely alleged — that are, for now, fading a brilliant Kodachrome image into sad sepia.
So many questions; so few answers.
Recent Comments