#52 Welfare Reform Still Wins

Historical Context:

• 1996: President Bill Clinton signed welfare reform despite internal opposition
• Signed due to political reality that the public wanted reform

Current Poll Results (Communication Concepts, May 31-June 3, 2025):

• Over 620 Pennsylvanians surveyed
• Strong support for welfare reform measures

Key Poll Numbers:

Put in the Work:

• 78% support welfare work requirements for able-bodied adults
• Only 17% disagree

Clock Is Ticking:

• 64% support restoring time limits on cash assistance
• 26% oppose

More Welfare-to-Work:

• 82% support expanding job training and placement programs
• Just 11% oppose

Protect the Safety Net:

• 77% support stricter eligibility checks for welfare 
• 16% disagree

Work Beats Deadlines:

• When forced to choose: 58% prioritize welfare work requirements over time limits
• 25% prefer stand-alone time limits

Messaging Framework:

• "Work should be part of the deal"
• "Welfare was never meant to be forever"
• "Let's expand what works"
• "Protecting welfare for those who need it"

Bottom Line: Welfare reform works politically and practically. It’s compassionate, popular, and focused on rewarding effort.

For more polling data and messaging guidance, refer to the accompanying one-page PDF.

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