The Mark Penn Presidential Pollsters Event
Polling Assessment on the State of U.S. Politics and Democracy
As the 2024 election approaches, presidential polling is more crucial than ever. Throughout history, U.S. Presidents have formed unique and confidential relationships with their pollsters, relying on public opinion to guide critical decisions in the White House. Their work is essential to the future of American democracy.
The Mark Penn Presidential Pollsters Event is dedicated to analyzing and archiving how these insights have shaped presidential strategies. In a time of unprecedented challenges and divisiveness, pollsters' insights are vital for policymakers, journalists, and scholars seeking to understand and respond to the public's concerns.
Do Americans Still Have Confidence in Their Government?
Please join the Graduate School of Political Management on September 18th as expert political analysts Mark Penn and
Dr. Christopher Arterton break down the latest polling on the state of U.S. politics and democracy.
Wednesday, September 18, 2024
5:30 p.m. - 8:30 p.m.
Hall of States Rooftop
The event includes a presentation with polling results, networking and a rooftop reception with iconic views of Washington, DC.
"We are honored to host Mark Penn and Dr. Christopher Arterton, two distinguished figures in the field of political management and polling, for a timely and essential conversation on the state of U.S. politics and democracy. As the 2024 election draws near, their expertise will provide invaluable insights into the currents shaping our political landscape. Whether you're deeply engaged in politics or simply curious about where our democracy is headed, this event promises to offer thought-provoking discussions that will resonate with all."
Liesl Riddle
Dean, GW College of Professional Studies
History and Mission of Mark Penn Presidential Pollsters
For nearly a century, Presidents of the United States have established unique and private relationships with their pollsters. Very few people have served in this capacity as an advisor on public opinion.
Presidential polling—the questions asked, the answers compiled, and the way in which that information is used in decision-making—paint an important picture of the history of American democracy.
In this spirit, GSPM created The Mark Penn Presidential Pollsters Event to archive and further examine the role public opinion plays in shaping decision-making strategy in the White House.
- 2023 Polling Assessment & Report
Review 2023 Survey Results (.pdf)
The 2023 event primarily focused on the latest polling data on U.S. politics and democracy, giving participants a comprehensive overview of the current state of affairs.
The analyses conducted by Dr. Arterton and Mark Penn covered a wide array of topics, including public trust in government institutions, voter intentions, and major issues influencing the political landscape.
Dr. Christopher Arterton, a renowned political scientist, brought his expertise to the discussion. With years of experience in the field, Dr. Arterton delved into the intricacies of political polling and its significance in understanding public sentiment. Drawing from his extensive research, he shed light on how accurate and reliable polling data can contribute to shaping political strategies.
Mark Penn, Chairman and CEO of Stagwell, a leading data-driven marketing company, joined Dr. Arterton to provide a unique perspective on the intersection of data analytics and politics. Penn's experience in conducting polls and analyzing data made his insights invaluable to the discussion. He highlighted the importance of incorporating advanced data analytics in political campaigns and decision-making processes, emphasizing the potential for data-driven strategies to enhance democracy.
- Endowment Establishment
The Society of Presidential Pollsters is now known as The Mark Penn Presidential Pollsters Event.
The Fund for the Society of Presidential Pollsters Endowment was established by Mark J. Penn in 2009. The fund provides annual income to create and promote a professional and honorary association of men and women who have served as pollsters to the President of the U.S. The endowment also funds the production of an annual poll. The Society's activities include an annual symposium on presidential polling and the promotion of presidential polling archives at GW and at presidential libraries across the country. Membership to the Society is extended to those who have served in the capacity of pollster to the president. In recognition of his lead gift, Mark Penn serves as the founding member of the Society.
- Archived Assessments
Archived annual assessments can be found on the Mark Penn Presidential Pollsters website.
GW Graduate School
of Political Management
At the forefront of 2024 election conversations stands the Graduate School of Political Management (GSPM), the first school of applied politics. Proudly celebrating its 35th anniversary, GSPM provides a platform for insightful discussions and offers real-time analysis and commentary on breaking news and legal developments. Doing so sheds light on how these events shape voters' minds, empowering them with knowledge and understanding.
2024 Election Hub
Get the scoop on GSPM's 2024 election activities at our one-stop clearinghouse. We invite you to browse the hub and check back frequently for insights and analysis from our expert faculty. Don't miss our media coverage, political podcast episodes, polling data, voting resources, upcoming events, and more.
Mastering the Room Political Podcast
Mastering the Room is a bite-sized podcast from GW’s Graduate School of Political Management, hosted by political analyst and professor Casey Burgat. In less time than the average morning commute, you’ll get smarter on today’s issues with information and perspectives you won’t get anywhere else.