Poll: NYers Don't Like "Obesity Tax" But Do Like Taxing the Rich

Quinnipiac University released a new poll today with NY State voters' thoughts on Governor Paterson's recently announced tax proposals to close the billion-dollar deficit. Respondents were opposed to the tax on non-diet sodas, 60% to 37% (even diet soda drinkers opposed it, 58% to 39%). While voters "would rather cut services than raise taxes" 53% to 36%, they do support a tax for people making more than $1 million/year 84% to 13% (Paterson hasn't proposed it, but might turn to it). Overall, though 88% of voters believe that the state has a budget crisis, only 46% approve of how Paterson is handling it. But 53% approve of the job he's doing (to 29% who don't) and 54% (vs. 33%) believe he has the leadership skills to deal with the budget.